Math Notebook = Study Guide
A three subject spiral notebook with pockets is required for the mathematics class. The first section is for notes, the second for homework and the third for warm-up problems and tests corrections. The notes section will have detailed explainations and examples of what we are working on in class. It will be at their disposal as they work on the homework assignments in the second section. Every homework problem is copied and worked out in the notebook. (See homework policy.) Students will check their work at the beginning of the next class. If the problem is wrong they are to analyze why it is wrong and correct the problem in their notebook. Students will ask questions about the problems they do not understand and clear up their notebook at the time their questions are answered. All questions in the notebook will be written and worked out completely and correctly. The notebook turns into a valuable resource with detailed explainations and hundreds of worked out and correct problems to study.
Homework: Must Be Completed When Due
All homework assignments will be posted daily. Students should record the appropriate assignment in their agenda. Homework assignments will be checked for completion the next school day. If the student does not complete or attempt the assignment they will receive a zero for that assignment. An assignment is considered attempted when the student has copied each problem, all information needed to solve the problem, and worked out as much of each problem as they possibly could. They should be ready to ask questions about these problems and the part where they got stuck the next day. All homework questions must be corrected in their notebook so they will have accurate problems and solutions for review.
Textbooks: Leave At Home
The textbook is to remain in their “special homework place” for the year and NOT BROUGHT TO SCHOOL. There are many reasons for having this policy.
The first reason is that the students carry enough books and have enough things to keep up with in middle school. I teach Common Core Georgia Performance Standards, not necessarily chapters. As the educator, I deliver the material, not the textbook. Therefore, there is no reason to burden the backs of these students by carrying a textbook that is not often utilized in the regular classroom setting.
The second reason is that due to budget costs, we will not be replacing the textbooks in the same time frames that used to occur. By keeping them at home, and not traveling back and forth, the books are much less likely to be lost and will be in better shape for the students that will need the books in the future.
Finally, the textbook has a great deal of problems that can be used as examples and for practice while they are not in the classroom. When students need extra help and practice problems, there are other types of math textbooks in the classroom that may be referenced.
My policy is that the student will receive a strike if I see their math book in school. However, a student has yet to recieve a detention for accidentally bringing a book to school. Usually, a gentle reminder is all that is necessary. If you have any questions or concerns about this policy please do not hesitate to contact me.
