Honors Algebra 1-2
Mrs. Burgess
Instructor: Jennifer Burgess
Room #: C129
Email: jeburgess@pvschools.net
Course Description
The goal of this class is to educate students in key concepts of algebra & to prepare each student for the next level in their mathematics education. We will be using the McGraw Hill Algebra 1 textbook & Reveal Program and supplementary materials from the Foerster Algebra 1 textbook. This course is rigorous and will require students to make a consistent effort in order to be successful.
Calculators
A calculator will be used periodically in this course. The Texas Instruments calculators are the preferred calculators.
Grading System -
Semester Grades
Each quarter grade is worth 40%. The final exam is worth 20%.
Quarter Grades
Tests / Quizzes 85%
Homework / Class Work 15%
Grading Scale
90%---100% A
80%---89.9% B
70%---79.9% C
60%---69.9% D
Grades Below 60% F
Quarter and Semester grades are NOT rounded up.
Google Classroom
All assignments, announcements, a weekly class calendar & various resources (including worksheets & answer keys) will be posted in Google Classroom. This should be the go-to place if a student is absent or in need of any information pertaining to class.
Attendance
Attendance is a vital component of the education process. If you are not in class, you miss essential information and can fall behind in your coursework.
Attendance will be taken at the beginning of class. Parents can be notified of a student’s attendance by checking Infinite Campus or turning on alerts in the Infinite Campus App.
Homework
Homework is an essential tool in producing quality educational results. Practicing the problems truly makes it easier to understand the material.
Each homework assignment is worth 10 points and based on the homework grade in Reveal. Two points of each homework assignment is based on work being turned into google classroom. Therefore, if you do not turn in any work, your grade from Reveal will be reduced by 20%.
Homework assignments completed after the due date will be calculated half off and all assignments must be completed by the end of the chapter/unit to receive any credit.
Late Work Policy/Make-Up policy
Work missed due to excused absences need to be completed promptly (within 2 days) upon return to school, otherwise, late work will NOT be accepted under any circumstances. If a student is absent on a day where a test/quiz is given, the student is expected to take it immediately upon return to school.
At Pinnacle High School, we recognize the importance of focusing on learning during instructional time. To minimize distractions and ensure a productive environment for all students, we have implemented the following policy regarding cell phone use during class. This policy aligns with House Bill 2484, which limits the use of personal electronic devices during the school day.
Cell Phone Expectations During Class Time:
Phones Away: Cell phones are not allowed to be out or used during class time. This includes headphones/earbuds, which must be put away.
Designated Storage: Students must store their cell phone in the designated cell phone pocket upon entering the classroom.
Teacher Direction: The only exception to this policy is when a teacher explicitly directs students to use a personal electronic device for a school-related activity or use.
"Do Not Disturb" Feature: Students are encouraged to use the "Do Not Disturb" feature on their phones to avoid notifications during class time.
Consequences for Non-Compliance:
Failure to adhere to this policy will result in progressive discipline, as outlined below:
First Instance:
Teacher will remind the student to place the phone in the designated sleeve.
The incident will be documented.
Second Instance:
Student will be required to turn their phone in to the office for the remainder of the school day.
Parent/guardian will be notified.
Subsequent Instances:
Student will be required to turn their phone into "Cell Phone Daycare" for a period of time determined by administration. The phone will be locked in a secure location in the administrative office.
Further progressive discipline will be applied, which may include additional loss of privileges, or in-school suspension, as determined by school administration.
Important Considerations:
Medical Conditions: If a student requires their phone for a documented medical condition, please ensure that current documentation is on file with the school nurse. A plan for phone use will be communicated to the student's teachers.
Lost or Stolen Electronics: Students bring personal electronic devices to school at their own risk.
We appreciate your cooperation and support in helping us maintain a focused and successful learning environment for all students.
Academic Integrity
Students are expected to do their own original work. Cheating will not be tolerated.
Cheating on tests or quizzes is defined as:
Viewing another students work
Talking during a test
Using unauthorized references or notes
Using unauthorized technology or technology inappropriately
Cheating on homework is defined as:
Copying another student’s work
Turning in another student’s work as your own
Giving your paper to another student
Using unauthorized technology (AI) inappropriately
Students caught cheating will not be given any credit for that particular assignment or test/quiz.
Movies
Movies and/or programs are rarely shown, but may be shown by substitutes or as an incentive/reward. These programs may include Stand and Deliver, Numb3rs, Goonies, and Myth Busters. An alternative assignment will be provided for those students who are unable to see the programs.
PARENTS PLEASE READ BELOW!!!
Dear Parents,
Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year. This year your son/daughter has been enrolled in Honors Algebra 1-2. Due to the academic rigor of the Honors Algebra 1-2 course, there are specific course expectations that both parents and students need to understand:
For the first few weeks of class the material taught should be a review of material taught in 8th grade. Students will have homework each night from the sections covered in class.
There is typically a test or a quiz each week.
Students will be required to complete homework assignments from the online program Reveal.
Students will also have assignments due periodically in Aleks.
Homework is an essential tool in producing quality educational results. Practicing the problems truly makes it easier to understand the material.
Students need to participate and ask questions to fully understand the concepts.
We DO NOT offer quiz or test retakes to improve a student’s grade.
We DO NOT offer quiz or test corrections to improve a student's grade.
The goal of this course is to prepare students to enter Honors Geometry next year. Students who maintain a test average of 85% or higher for all 4 quarters will be recommended for Honors Geometry, students who do not meet these requirements will be recommended for Regular Geometry.