This page contains information relating to the Curriculum, Instruction, Assessment, Evaluation and Reporting of grade 8 Mathematics in Mrs. McLaughlin's classes.
Curriculum
The Ontario Curriculum consists of expectations that students must be able to attain by the end of grade 8. These expectations are grouped around 5 broad categories or strands. The strands are:
Number Sense and Numeration
Measurement
Geometry and Spatial Sense
Patterning and Algebra
Data Management and Probability
The Ontario Mathematics Curriculum can be downloaded at: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/elementary/math18curr.pdf
Student report cards will report achievement of each of these strands twice a year. Student achievement in Number Sense and Numeration will be reported on in each term.
Please visit the Grade specific tab to view the month by month plan describing the content targets for the year. Students receive a progress report in November, a report card in January, and a report card in June.
Instruction
The study of mathematics will help students develop knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and procedures. The ability to think critically and process information in other areas such as science, social studies and language is an important effect of learning mathematics. To this end, instruction will focus on students developing thinking skills in the 7 mathematical processes as outlined in the Ontario Mathematics Curriculum. They are problem solving, reasoning and proving, selecting tools and computational strategies, connecting, reflecting, communicating, and representing.
Instruction will focus on the development of conceptual understanding. Students will use manipulatives and computer software to help represent mathematical thinking. Deep conceptual understanding will foster procedural fluency.
Assessment
Assessment is the gathering of information and data from student work. It is used to provide students with timely feedback and to inform teacher instruction. Assessment will target the 4 categories of knowledge and skills as outlined by the Ontario Achievement Chart: Knowledge and Understanding, Thinking, Communication and Application. Several forms of informal and formal assessment will be used, including anecdotal assessment, instructional problem solving, quizzes, assignments, conferences, interviews, projects and tests. Some assessments will be evaluated for the purposes of reporting. Assessment that is evaluated will be returned to students with a level (1, 2, 3 or 4) along with feedback to help the student improve learning. Students will be made aware of major assessments that are being evaluated well in advance to allow for sufficient preparation. The following are essential for the success of both the individual student and the class as a whole:
- readiness to participate;
- focus on task;
- attitude (taking risks, using mistakes as an opportunity to learn);
- respect for the subject, materials, and the rights of others to learn.
Textbook
We will not be using a specific textbook this year. Rather, we will be following a plan known as TIPS4RM. It was produced by the Ontario Ministry of Education and is freely available http://www.edugains.ca/newsite/math2/tips4rmgrade7.html. Please feel free to investigate it and follow along! I will also be creating lessons as deemed necessary through diagnostic assessments and assessments for learning.
Learning Tools
Students will require the following tools:
- calculator
- geometry set
- 30 cm ruler
- 1" binder with lined paper and graph paper
- pencil and eraser
If you are needing to purchase a calculator, it is recommended that you purchase a scientific calculator. The additional functionality of scientific calculators is not necessary for grades 8 mathematics, but will come in very handy beginning in grade 9 mathematics and science.
Extra Help
As soon as students feel confused or have questions, they are encouraged to seek assistance from Mrs. McLaughlin. I will be sharing my availability with students and will happily offer extra help whenever possible. Help days and times are posted in my room.
Parents: the best way to reach me is through email. You can email me at blair_mclaughlin@wrdsb.on.ca