ALGEBRA 1

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Text: Algebra 1

Publisher: McDougal Littell Company

Introduction: This course presents and develops all the necessary topics for an algebra course. It is written for average

and above average students who would like a solid preparation for high school mathematics. Algebra 1

is the basis for any other mathematics course you will take. Without the skills established in Algebra 1,

you will not be able to excel this year or beyond.

Objectives: The objectives of this class are 1) to provide a strong foundation of Algebra 1, 2) to help you become a

more independent thinker, 3) to help present the topics in different ways to accommodate and show the

different types of learning styles, 4) to help you develop problem solving techniques and 5) to increase

the student’s appreciation of mathematics through seeing a wide range of mathematical backgrounds in

different applicable fields.

Time Table: 1st Nine Weeks- Approximately Chapters 1, 2 & 3

2nd

Nine Weeks- Approximately Chapters 4, 5 & 6

3rd

Nine Weeks- Approximately Chapters 7, 8 & 9

4th Nine Weeks- Approximately Chapters 10, 11 & 12

Approach: The major method of presentation is the lecture. Each topic is presented by showing the theoretical

relationship to the practically solved problem. Homework is utilized to reinforce newly presented ideas

with boardwork used to practice these methods. TI-Nspire is used to visualize the in-class work.

Quizzes and homework are used as the information upon which an effective evaluation is made each

quarter.

Grading: Each students grade is calculated based on the number of points earned divided by the number of points

possible during that particular grading period.

Scoring: Tests: Worth 100 points (we will have 3-4 each quarter)

Quizzes: Worth 20-75 points (we will have 3 or 4 each quarter)

-Pop quizzes may occur and will be worth significantly less

Homework: Worth 8 points (we will have around 20 each quarter)

Notebook: Worth 2 points/section (will be checked occasionally)

Absences: School Policy--It is the responsibility of the student to get and make up missed assignments or quizzes.

For each day absent, you will have one day to make up the assignment for full credit. (i.e. If you are

absent just once, on a b-day, then you have until the end of the next b-day to make up the missing

homework, quiz or test. If you are absent just once, on an a-day, then you have until the end of the next

a-day class to make up the missing homework, quiz or test.). Longer absences will allow for more time

to make up the school work.

Late Homework: If homework is not turned in on assigned date and an absence was not involved, the student has two weeks

from the due date to turn the assignment in for half credit. After two weeks, the student will receive a zero for

the assignment.

Computer: The student is to have his computer with him for every class. If the student fails to have his computer with him

and does not have a note from the help desk, the student and teacher will work out an alternate plan to complete

the assignment. From the second instance on, the student will receive a zero for the assignment(s).

Class Policies

Late Work Late work may be turned in up to two weeks from the date it

was due. No late work will be accepted after the two week

window has passed. The only exception is in the case of an

extended excused absence.

Make-up

Work

Upon the student’s return from an excused absence, it is his

responsibility to find out what he missed and to complete those

assignments in due time (one extra class per class missed).

Students need to also obtain missed warm-ups and notes from a

classmate or teacher before/after school.

Daily Work Daily work such as warm-ups, classwork, and homework will

be graded for completeness. Homework will be given on a

daily basis.

Tests/Quizzes (also see below)

Tests will be given at the end of each chapter. Tests dates will

be announced at least one week in advance to give time for

review and questions. Quizzes may be given without prior

notice. If a student misses a test, he is responsible for making it

up on his own time based on how long he was absent.

Notebook/

Binder

You will use OneNote to take your notes and to do your

homework, warm ups, etc. It is an excellent study guide for

review, quizzes, and tests. This organizational tool will be

graded

Tutoring Students may obtain extra help outside of class time before

school any day or after school by making an appointment with

the teacher. NEVER hesitate to ask for help. I will do

everything to help you succeed. Do not wait until the day

before the test to ask for assistance! Mrs. Nay will also be

available throughout the school year.

On Task It is expected that you will give 100% in all tasks. Any work

not related to the assigned task will be confiscated.

Pencil ONLY To receive credit on paper assignments/tests/quizzes, all work

MUST be in PENCIL unless stated otherwise.

Dismissal I will dismiss the class at the end of the bell. Lining up at the

door is NEVER permitted.