Teacher: Denise Vallarta

United South Middle School - Room: 64

Email: denise.villarreal@uisd.net

Tel. (956) 473-7700 Ext. 7777

Conference Time: 7^th Period 2:35 PM - 3:30 PM

Dear Parents,                                           

With a new academic year upon us, I would like to welcome your son/daughter to my 8th grade Algebra/8^th Math class for the 202-2023 academic school year. It will be an exciting and challenging year for all of us. I ask that you are patient since this is a new challenge we are all facing together. Keep in mind everything is changing daily, I will do my best to keep you updated and will share information with you as it comes.

Algebra I is a course focused primarily on multiple representations of linear relationships. Other topics covered in this course include quadratic and non‐linear functions, as well as systems of linear equations and inequalities. Algebraic reasoning will be applied to real world problem situations, graphing calculators will be used as necessary to enhance algebraic concepts.

Instruction and assessments will include the appropriate use of strategies, calculators, and technology. Topics will be represented in multiple ways, such as concrete/pictorial, verbal/written, numeric/data-based, graphical, and symbolic. Concepts will be introduced and used in the context of realistic phenomena. 

By staying positive and working hard every day, your child will excel in this class. I ask for your cooperation in making sure that your son/daughter complies with assignments, and homework, and is on time for class on a daily basis.  Your support is sincerely appreciated and it is very important for your son/daughter to know that we care for their well-being and success. You will be contacted periodically so that together we can be a support team in encouraging your child to be successful in class.

________________________

Mrs. Denise Vallarta

CLASSROOM RULES & EXPECTATIONS

To be successful in Algebra, you must follow and apply these learning expectations.  

1. Attend class. Avoid being frequently absent. Be on Time!

2. Participate/discuss during interactive lessons.

3. Practice skills learned during lessons.

4. Complete work/quizzes on Google Classroom for grades.

5. Follow instructions at all times.

6. Be respectful.

Rules for all students in the class setting OR virtual learning. (ROAR)

Students will Be On Time for daily lessons

Students will Be Responsible 

Students will Be Orderly

Students will Be Accountable

Students will Be Respectful 

REQUIRED MATERIALS

Each student is expected to bring to class every day:

1. Spiral or Journal

2. Pencil, pen, and eraser

3. Highlighters

4. TI-nspire CX (provided by USMS)

5. Folder or Binder

The use of a calculator is strongly encouraged. USMS has provided all students with a calculator for the entire 2022-2023 school year, if possible I would strongly recommend purchasing a TI-nspire CX or CX II  graphing calculator as you will need it for math courses in high school and college courses.

Online Websites 

Quizizz.com

Khan Academy.com

Smartlab Activities

Pre AP College Board Student Resources

Kahoot

IXL

Edulastic

GRADES AND ASSIGNMENTS

Assignments will be given on a regular basis.  All assignments are due at the beginning of class on the due date. Assignments should be submitted on time.  NO LATE WORK WILL BE ACCEPTED.  In case of an absence, you will be given one day for each day you were absent to make up the work and receive full credit.  

Grades are determined by the following weighted scale:

Required every three weeks

Classroom assignments…..50%

Quizzes & Tests………..….50%

Classroom Participation is expected.

1st & 2nd Semester grade calculation

2nd Six Weeks ……………...25%

3rd Six Weeks ……………...25%

4th Six Weeks ……………...25%

Semester Exam………..…...25%

Final Grade

1st Semester………………..50%

2nd Semester………………..50%