The goal of this class is for students to be proficient in Algebra 1 and start Accelerated Geometry as a freshman.  Students will engage in project based learning throughout the school year. All students must take and pass a comprehensive math high school placement final at the end of the school year.

I believe it is the student’s responsibility to:

• Complete all assignments on time.  All work must be shown.
• Study and achieve satisfactory quiz and test scores.
• Maintain high quality on daily work.
• Use class time wisely.
• Demonstrate cooperative behavior with fellow students and the teacher.
• Have regular attendance, with required materials.
• Ask questions and seek help when needed.

CURRICULUM

Textbook: Algebra 1             Publisher: McGraw Hill

Topics:  

• Expressions, Equations, Functions
• Linear Equations
• Linear Functions
• Equations of Linear Functions
• Linear Inequalities
• Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities
• Exponents and Exponential Functions
• Quadratic Expressions
• Quadratic Equations and Functions
• Radical Functions and Geometry
• Data Analysis and Displays
• Transformations
• Angles and Triangles
• Real Numbers and the Pythagorean Theorem
• Areas, Volumes and Similar Solids

A variety of instructional strategies will be used to better reach all students.  Emphasis will be given to algebraic computational skills, application skills, project based learning (PBL), and problem solving.

Recommended Materials (that will enhance student’s learning success):

• 2 spiral bound notebooks (one for each semester- to be used for math notes)
• Daily supply of lined paper or 2 spiral bound notebooks (one for each semester to be used for homework)
• Pencils (mechanical pencils preferred), 2 red pen, 2 black pen
• Scientific calculator
• Shatter resistant ruler
• Graph paper
• Highlighter(s)
• Optional: colored pencils or markers
• Glue sticks

Late Work:  Late assignments may be completed for less credit and must be submitted before the next chapter test. Exceptions may be made for unusual circumstances, but only after parent/teacher discussion.  If a student has an excused absence, they will be given the number of missed days to make up the work.  Parents can call the office and request homework to be sent home or check http://portal.ovsd.org/LoginParent . Students need to write “Late” or “Absent” on the assignment and hand it in the late or absent folder.

Test Re-Take:  If a student does poorly on a chapter/unit test, they may re-take a test. Each chapter test retake must be done before the next chapter test.  Before re-taking the test, the student will be required to do practice work (textbook-chapter test even problems) and to turn that work in to me.  If the practice work is done well (at least 80%), the student then may re-take the test.  Re-take tests will be given either before school or after school as arranged by the student and myself.  The student will be given the higher grade received on the test.

**Students who receive a C, D, or F on the test are highly recommended for a re-take.