Pre-Algebra                    Science

Mon     2/8         8-7  Systems/Equations         Computer Lab:  Writing

Tue     2/9          8-7  Systems/Equations         Respiratory System

Wed    2/3         Ch.8 QUIZ & Blue Diamond    Smoking & Health

Thur    2/4         Ch. 8 Review

Fri       2/5         Ch. 8 TEST

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Textbooks
A shared “classroom set” of textbooks will remain in my class, for use by students in each period.  Student’s may “check out” a textbook, at any time, on a daily basis for use at home.  

On-Line Resources
Both textbooks offer web sites with additional resources, homework, on-line textbooks, etc.  The addresses for these sites are:
      Compacted Math/Pre-Algebra:   www.pearsonsuccessnet.com
                               >  Click on "Register"
                               >  Enter Access Code:  PHMASE04NTENPAT
                                   (the "04" is "zero - four")

Homework:
Keeping up with the workbook is critical!  Don’t lose it!   Bring it with you to class every day!  Most pre-algebra homework assignments will come from the workbook.

Science homework assignments are used to reinforce and complete topics and activities introduced in class.  

Tests:
We will have a major test on every chapter!   There will also be quizzes and pop tests.  Some tests (but not all) will be preceded by a day of formal review.  

Make-Up Tests/Work:
If you miss a day of class, homework assignment, test, etc., it is YOUR (the student's) responsibility to make up that work.  I will not remind you, hound you or require you to make up the work--it is up to you!

Extra Credit opportunities:  
Math:  Every week, I will post a "Problem of the Week" in the classroom.  Student answers are due by 12:00 noon on Friday of that week.  Students will receive 2 points for a reasonable attempt (my judgement call), and 4 points for a correct answer.  They will receive a "coupon" for the 2 or 4 points they earn.  The coupon may be attached to a test or homework assignment of their choice.  

Science:  Students may earn Extra Credit for finding, bringing in, and presenting to the class a “Scientific Current Event”.  One per week maximum.

Chapter tests, Interim report cards, and various other information that I believe important for parents to see may receive 1 to 5 points of extra credit if signed by a parent and returned to school.  

I do not offer students opportunities for additional “extra” credit on an individual or preferential basis.

Grades
My grading scale conforms to the Daniels Middle School Handbook:

        A =  93 – 100
        B =  85 – 92
        C =  77 – 84
        D =  70 – 76
        F  =  Less than 70
        FF =  Excessive Abscences

Different activities will contribute to the overall grade, and be weighted in this manner:

                                                Math                         Science

        Tests                               50%                             30%

        Labs                                                                    25%
        Quizzes                          25%                             15%
        Homework                       10%                             10%
        Classwork                       15%                             20%


Extra Help & Tutoring:
Students may arrange to attend tutoring on Thursday afternoons.  (Arrange means “see me” before Thursday afternoon.  I will not be able to be here every Thursday afternoon!)   If you arrange a tutoring session, come prepared!  Arrive with specific problems you want to work through!

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I welcome e-mail and other communications from parents.  Your child's school success is our mutual goal.   My e-mail:  mansley@wcpss.net

I appreciate your support for your son or daughter and their efforts in mathematics and science.

--Ray Ansley