Algebra I
Fall 2003
Course description: Chapters 7-12 and half of chapter 13 of the textbook,
Algebra I, will be covered this semester. The concepts covered in those chapters
include solving linear inequalities, solving systems of equations and
inequalities, exploring polynomials, factoring, graphing and solving quadratic
and exponential functions, and exploring rational and radical expressions and
equations. Approximately 2 weeks will be spent on each chapter.
Grading policy: Homework-25%
Classwork/Quizzes-25%
Tests-25%
9-week Exam-25%
The Gateway test that is given at the end of semester will count as 15% of the final grade.
No extra credit will be given, so please don't ask. Students will have
several opportunities to bring up their grade during the semester. Progress
reports will be sent home approximately halfway into the grading period. These
reports need to be signed by a parent and returned for credit.
Homework: Homework will be given almost every night. Homework is important-the only way to get good at math is by doing it! Also, concepts build from previous learned concepts. So it is very important to do the homework every night. Every problem should be attempted. "I didn't get it" is no longer a valid excuse for incomplete homework. That's the same as saying, "I really didn't feel like thinking." You need to think. You need to think hard. You need to think hard for a long time. As long as you show some evidence of having thought about the problem, you will get some credit for the assignment. And, more importantly, you will be training your mind to think. Your brain will be strengthened. Late homework will not be accepted except for those with excused absences.
Absolutely all math work should be done in pencil and will be labeled in the
top right hand corner of the paper as such:
Student's Name
Period
Date
Assignment (page & problem #)
Tests: A mid-chapter and chapter test will be given for most chapters. Students
who fail a test and have submitted and completed all homework assignments for
that test will be given an opportunity to retake the test after school or during
homeroom. The grade on the retake test will be the grade that the student will
receive. Students will also have a project assigned every marking period and
will count as a test grade.
Materials Needed:
Pencils!-10% of score will be deducted for work done in pen!
3-ring binder
loose-leaf paper
tabbed dividers
4 AAA batteries or $2
Textbooks and Calculators: Graphing calculators will be provided by the
teacher to be used in the classroom, but I am asking for every student to
provide either the 4 AAA batteries or $2 for the purchase of batteries. A
calculator check will be done at the end of each period to ensure that all
calculators are returned. Each student is responsible for seeing that his/her
calculator is replaced.
Students will also be assigned a textbook. Students will be responsible for
replacement costs for failure to take care of or return books or calculators.
Classroom rules:
1. Follow all school rules as outlined in the student handbook.
2. Bring textbook, notebook, paper and pencil to class every day.
3. Be on time, in assigned seat and ready to work when the bell rings.
4. No food, drinks, gum or candy will be allowed without prior consent.
5. No talking unless the student raises his/her hand and is called upon.
Make-up Work: Students must have completed work missed during an excused absence within a reasonable time after returning to school-one day for every day absent. Quizzes and some tests can be made up in homeroom, while others tests will need to be made up after school.
Extra help: Extra help can be given before school, during lunch periods (my planning period is Block 3), homeroom or after school. Please schedule a time as I may have a conflict.