From the Desk of Talven Pearsell
Mathematics Department Chair

Dear Parents/Guardians,

The mathematics team is excited about the 2007/08 school year here at Deer Park Middle Magnet School. During the summer we recharged, attended workshops, and planned for the coming school year. To assist with the task of meeting the students’ academic needs, we are pleased to announce the arrival of several new members on the mathematics team and welcome back our returning members.

We put into action Algebraic Thinking 2, which is a new mathematics program for 8th grade students. Algebraic Thinking 2 continues with the three year middle grades mathematics program. It is designed to help students learn and understand the concepts of Algebra. Students not only gain understanding, but also the confidence in mathematics that, in turn, helps them achieve goals and apply mathematics in many aspects of life. The Algebraic Thinking program combines comprehensive and ongoing staff development with a complete on grade level mathematics program.

Please be encouraged to visit http://deerparkms.bcps.org and complete the mathematics summer packets. The mathematics team is looking forward with working with you to enhance every student’s academic development.


Talven Pearsell
Mathematics Department Chair

Textbooks

All students will be/have been provided with a textbook or workbook. Students are expected to cover the textbook with non-adhesive book covers, and bring the book to school each day. Some programs require the students to leave the workbook in class; your child’s teacher will send a note home in reference to this. The stretchable jumbo book sox that can be purchased at any office supply store are the best type of covering for the textbook your child received. Each student have/will sign for the textbook and a book form, detailing the cost of each book, will be sent home. Students will be responsible for the cost of the textbook if it is lost or damaged before another book is issued.

Additional Math Programs

To ensure that every student has an opportunity to excel in their course, a variety of programs will be/are offered after school. All teachers offer coach class one day a week, which will be held on Tuesday after school. There will be an additional after school programs for those students who are not in Algebra with Assistance (AWA) or Math Assistance 8 and need additional practice on skills taught in class.
Parent Resources

The math department hosts a Math Night for parents each year. This will be an opportunity for you to learn about your child’s instructional math program and the Maryland State Assessment (MSA) your child will take in March. Flyers will be sent home with further information and the date for this event. This interactive and information session is in addition to back to school night. Also, you should visit the Baltimore County Public School website, www.bcps.org and the Maryland Departments of Education website, www.mdk12.org. At these sites you will be able to get homework help and updated information about current and future programs in addition to information about the Maryland State Assessment (MSA) and the High School Assessment (HSA).

Basic Math Tools/Supplies Needed

  • Pencils, Notebook, Paper, & Dividers
  • Pencil Sharpener with Cover
  • Protractor & Ruler
  • Compass (May not be a metal tipped compass)
  • Calculator: TI83 Plus or a Graphing Calculator (7th & 8th Grade and 6th Grade G/T); Scientific Calculator (6th Grade)