J ALENE S MITH Geometry teacher

A BOUT M E Graduated from Westfield High School in 2000 Graduated from Butler University in 2004 I graduated from IWU with a master’s in teaching in February 2011 This is my 12 th year teaching at WHS I am married and have 1 daughter who is 4 and a son who is 2. I am lucky to be able to send them to my mom while I am at school.

A BOUT G EOMETRY 1 st trimester Vocabulary Learning how to think logically Proofs Characteristics of shapes (careers in computer science, law, engineering, etc.) 2 nd trimester Similarity Pythagorean Theorem Trig Area, Surface Area, Volume Circles (preparation for future classes, careers in construction, landscaping, home improvement, engineering, etc.)

G RADES 55% tests, 30% quizzes, 15% classwork/homework An assignment is given almost everyday to check for understanding Either due at the end of the period or the next day Sometimes we just go over it Other times I will grade it for completion Occasionally I will grade it for accuracy A quiz and a test will be given for every chapter About a week to get tests graded and entered If students want to know quiz/test grades earlier, they may attend bonus period and go over it with me

H OW TO B E S UCCESSFUL Be responsible for your own learning Take notes and participate in class Keep a binder with all notes Know your vocabulary Do the entire assignment every time Correct the assignment when we go over it Don’t be absent Catch up on work if you are absent Attend 6th period Go over quizzes/tests with the teacher if desired grade is not earned

H OW Y OU C AN H ELP Know that the struggle is ok – it takes time to learn “Struggling in mathematics is not the enemy, any more than sweating is the enemy in basketball; it is part of the process, and a clear sign of being in the game.” Resist the temptation to explain the struggle as genetic. Instead, explain that their effort can get them through the struggle. Guide them to resources 6 th period Homework hotline Expand the focus beyond the grade Can result in negative behaviors to get the grade Praise the process (from an article by Suzanne Sutton in “Bulletin” – Feb. 1997)

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