Math and Science Expectations

I wanted to take a moment to tell you a little about my expectations in math and science this year.

MATH:

In math we have adopted a new textbook this year.  So far, this textbook seems to be challenging for the kids, but that is a good thing!  As the year progresses and they get used to the book, the scholars will find it getting easier.  If you are having difficulty helping your child with his or her homework, ask your child to bring home the STUDENT HANDBOOK.  This book gives examples of how each concept is presented in class.  It is a great resource for both of you!  Also, at the start of each new chapter, a parent letter will go home explaining the focus of that chapter.  On the back of the letter is a game that you can play with your family to practice those concepts.  This is not “homework,” but it is a great way to get the whole family involved in math at home.

Each night your child will have a homework page in the Practice workbook.  This page reviews the concept that we learned in class that day.  The “Test Prep” word problems at the bottom are very challenging sometimes!  Please understand that homework is not graded as right or wrong.  I expect that each scholar gives his or her best effort and attempts each problem.  It’s okay to try it and not get it!  J  We will go over the answers the following day in class.

The math grades this year will consist of weekly homework grades (completion and timeliness), concept practice pages, Problem Solving warm-up packets, chapter tests, Check For Understanding quizzes, and possible projects.  The LAB pages are never for a grade.  These pages are class work and are usually completed together.  PLEASE KNOW THAT ANY GRADE BELOW A 70% CAN BE CORRECTED AT HOME AND RETURNED FOR A HIGHER GRADE (UP TO 70%).

Scholars are also responsible for knowing addition facts.  Please practice flashcards at home each night to ensure quick recalling.  Multiplication facts will be starting soon, also!

SCIENCE:

Each nine weeks in science we will be focusing on a different unit. 
          1^st nine weeks – Earth and Space
          2^nd nine weeks – Matter and Magnetism
          3^rd nine weeks – Forces and Energy
          4^th nine weeks – Plants and Animals
In class we will be doing science labs, reading information, watching science videos on United Streaming, and completing our Science Interactive Journal.  Ask your child to bring home his or her journal every now and then, so you can see what we are studying.

There will be an occasional science homework assignment if class work is not completed.  Most of these assignments will consist of finishing a journal entry drawing.

The science grades this year will consist of lab grades, group participation grades, journal checks, quizzes, unit tests, and possible projects.  PLEASE KNOW THAT ANY GRADE BELOW A 70% CAN BE CORRECTED AT HOME AND RETURNED FOR A HIGHER GRADE (UP TO 70%).

I know this is going to be a terrific year!  Thank you for all that you have already done to help it along!

Sincerely,

Michelle Pernicka