Assessments will come in the form of quizzes and cumulative exams such as unit tests or the final. Material on the test will mirror practice and homework problems that the students will be working on throughout the class. If questions arise, it’s important to get those answered prior to test day to ensure success.

Naturally, the bulk of one’s score will fall under tests and quizzes. But having a projects portion is so beneficial because it allows for a measure of assessment in a different format. The purpose of this portion is for students to express knowledge in written form and practice communicating math, an important skill often left out of traditional education. In an English class, you write papers, in a science class you write lab reports and in math class we will practice communicating ideas through “sidelight” exercises, reading reflections or socratic seminars, based on the class. All of the work students submit should be original, but they have the opportunity to use notes and resources, ask questions and talk through ideas with their peers.

Homework is the hallmark characteristic of any course, especially math, because the only way to get better at it is to spend time with the ideas, form your own intuition for the concepts and put them into practice. Homework is one of the best ways to test your understanding. If it gets difficult, ask questions. But you won’t know if you have questions if you don’t try on the practice.

Coming to class, supporting your peers in a collaborative manner and being an active participant in your learning are all part of being successful as a student and a future productive member of society. This category gives you credit for that, often giving your overall grade a boost at the same time.