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=Welcome to Mr. Kirschner's SAGE Math Class page! = = =  **// Parents: Do you or someone you know work in a profession that uses math? Are they willing to come and talk to the class about their job? If so, please email me to arrange a class visit. General Information for Mr. Kirschner’s Sage Math Class spencer.kirschner@dvusd.org //** **__ Notebook __** – I suggest that students have a separate three-subject spiral notebook for math. While single subject notebooks would suffice, a three subject will help to keep them more organized. While any brand will be sufficient, be sure it measures 11 x 8.5 and includes pocket folders for storing loose papers. Here is a link to Mead 5-Star brand, so you can see what they look like. []

 **__ Other Supplies (Suggested, not required) __**  Keeping a Math Journal will be an integral part of this year’s math experience. The purpose of writing in mathematics is well explained in “// Writing in the Mathematics Curriculum” //by Patricia C. Burchfield, Patricia R. Jorgensen, Kimberley G. McDowell, and Jim Rahn:   Writing is a natural process, a method of communication between people and a way to express the thoughts and feelings that occur within a person. Its use as a tool for the teaching and learning of mathematics is a recent development, springing in part from the NCTM Standards on Communication. No longer the exclusive province of the humanities, writing is now in use in mathematics classes at all levels, K-12.
 * __ Assignments and Homework __**
 * Homework must be done in pencil only.
 * Calculators are used only at the teacher’s discretion.
 * Neatness is really important when doing math problems, so messy work will not be accepted.
 * Late work policies are outlined in the school handbook.
 * Quizzes are often unannounced, while at least two days advance notice will be given for tests
 * __ Grading __**
 * Daily work and notes will be checked at random and graded based on completeness and effort.
 * Some units call for projects that we will work on throughout the unit, so planning and pacing will be important.
 * Grades are based on:
 * Class discussion and participation
 * Quizzes and tests
 * Assignments and projects
 * Journals
 * White board markers (we use these frequently)
 * Protractors
 * Hand held pencil sharpener
 * ** Hand Sanitizer and wipes for classroom **
 * __ Journals __**

Through the use of writing in the mathematics classroom, students can clarify their thinking, recognize and appreciate the connection between mathematics and other disciplines, and communicate their thoughts, ideas, and understanding about the subject with other students. Writing involves all students, both male and female, and the teacher. Writing provides an additional mode of learning for those creative students who have not previously been reached by more traditional, structured, linear methodology. Because a student often knows more than he or she can explained verbally, writing helps the student to uncover more of what is known and to express it. Once the students have had the opportunity to collect their thoughts on paper, they may then volunteer to share their work. While the student’s math journals will not be checked every day, I have provided a general rubric for assessing the quality of their work. It can be found by clicking on the rubric link.

** To access the 5th and 6th Grade Textbook Online: **

1. Go to []

2. Type the following code into the student login box: EF6241ABB8 (5th Grade) C137EDF057 (6th Grade)