Course Description: 

Algebra I serves as a high school credit course and serves as a cornerstone for subsequent high school mathematics classes. This fact cannot be overstated. Algebra, being a key instrument for comprehending the world, underscores the significance of forging links between mathematical concepts and real-world scenarios, thereby unraveling solutions to intricate challenges. Within the class, graphing calculators are harnessed as instruments for exploration and validation. Students are tasked not only with explaining, justifying, verifying, and interpreting but also with cultivating critical thinking skills. 

Modules:                                         

• Module 1: Searching for Patterns        

  • Quantities and Relationships
  • Sequences
  • Linear Regressions

• Module 2: Exploring Constant Change

  • Linear Functions
  • Linear Equations and Inequalities
  • Systems of Equations and Inequalities

• Module 3: Investigating Growth and Decay

  • Introduction to Exponential Function
  • Using Exponential Equations

• Module 4: Maximizing and Minimizing

  • Introduction to Quadratic Functions
  • Solving Quadratic Equations

Topics:

• Solving equations and inequalities
• An introduction to functions
• Linear Functions
• System of equations and inequalities
• Exponents and radicals
• Sequences
• Polynomials and factoring
• Quadratic functions and equations
• Exponential functions and equations

Resources:

1. Carnegie Learning

2. Mathia

3. Study Island

4. Khan Academy

5. OnTrack

Supplies: 

(The following materials are to be brought to class every day.)

1.      Composition Notebook

2.      Pencil               

3.      Black, red, and blue pen          

4.      Color Pencils     

5.      Glue Stick or tape

6.      Highlighter                                           

7.      Eraser                           

8.      Ruler (optional)

9.  Dry Erase Marker

Note: Students will need to tape or glue all handout papers in their notebooks.

Expectations:

•  Be Punctual: Arrive promptly for class! It's essential to be on time and efficiently organize your materials on the table. Cultivating this habit of punctuality plays a vital role in setting a positive tone for your math class every day. 

•    Be Ready: Daily readiness for class significantly contributes to each student's achievements in mathematics. Your readiness starts by bringing the required materials for the day and adhering to any instructions provided on the board. Students are urged to approach class with an open and receptive attitude to learning. 

•   Be Engaged: Participation in the math class is essential for practical student-centered discussion and a healthy learning environment. Students are invited to come to the table with a positive attitude in anticipation of learning from the teacher and each other.

•  Be Respectful: A healthy respect for the voices of the teacher and peers is also crucial in creating an environment that supports a deeper understanding of math.

Grading:

A fundamental objective of my class is to showcase the ability to engage in mathematical thinking. This skill empowers students to apply mathematics effectively, encompassing elements such as reasoning, modeling, and establishing correlations between concepts. It's evident that I prioritize this process, as reflected in my grading approach, where a significant proportion of points is allocated to demonstrating the methodology behind problem-solving. 

What are the advantages for students in presenting their problem-solving approach?

• Articulating the solution method showcases a profound grasp of both the concept and the process involved.

• While elucidating their answers, students often identify errors made during problem-solving.

• An integral aspect of mathematics involves recognizing patterns. Through explaining their mathematical thought processes, students commence the journey of identifying these patterns.

Grading Policy:

Grades encompass various aspects, including quizzes, daily participation, reports, projects, written assignments, presentations, tests, homework, in-class activities, and projects. 

90 – 100 --Excellent quality of work - thorough mastery of subject matter 

80 – 89 --Good quality of work - above average with consistent effort 

75 – 79 --Satisfactory quality of work - average achievement

 70 -- 74 --Below quality work expected - below average achievement

 50 -- 69 --Unsatisfactory quality of work - poor work, failing 

Students should communicate to parents their specific grading procedures.

Grading Categories and weights:

Summative Assessments (Tests & Projects): 30%

Learning (Homework, Classwork & Quiz): 70%

Assignment/Quiz/Test Retakes:

Students have the opportunity to retake any assignment, quiz, or test to improve their grade with a maximum of 75.

Late Work Policy:

• Homework is expected to be submitted by the specified deadline of 7:45 am on the due date. 

• The maximum deduction for late submissions is 10% of the earned grade.

•  Each assignment should be turned in within 6 calendar days after the original due date. In Power School, any missing assignment will be marked as "Missing".

• If the missing assignment is not turned in during the window, the late assignment will not be accepted and will receive a grade of zero.

• For assignments due in the final two weeks of the cycle, they must be handed in by the Friday marking the end of the cycle. 

• Any submission thereafter won't be accepted and will receive a grade of zero. 

• Upon completing an assignment, students are required to send an email as a notification. The email should include their full names and last names, class period, the name of the completed assignment, and the earned grade.