Algebra 1: Syllabus 2014 – 2015 Mrs. Dalton, Richland High School [email protected], @MrsDaltonMath
Course Description and Course Objectives:
Algebra 1 will begin with an inspection of functions and key terms and attributes of functions and their graphical representations. With this foundation, we will organize and analyze data of linear functions and look at the different ways that they can be represented. We will construct systems of linear equations and constraints to solve real-world situations, and we will learn to utilize linear programming. Next we will take an expanded look at functions and relations. Quadratic and other non-linear functions will be analyzed, as well, and identified in explorations of falling objects and projectile motion. Algebra is your foundation to all future math studies. Math is relevant and FUN and it will enhance your critical thinking abilities!
Student discovery is at the heart of my class and it is filled with engaging investigations of mathematical concepts. Cooperative learning projects, writing assessments, and observational assessment will be used extensively. Do not be intimidated! I care about you as a student and enjoy mathematics. Math is a universal language, and it is my goal for you to learn by discovery. This means that you must take responsibility for your education. I want you to question things and wonder why they work. It is my goal for you to become successful mathematical thinkers and lifelong learners who can thrive in the real world. So, if you want to learn Algebra… you will! What you may not realize is that you already use Algebra in your everyday lives; these concepts are not new … just a new way of seeing things!
Course Requirements:
1. Required Supplies: pencils, pen, notebook paper, composition notebook*, pocket folder*, and graph paper
2. Requested Supplies: graphing calculator** (highly encouraged), 4-pack multi-colored thin dry erase markers, package of #2 pencils, box of kleenex
3. Textbook: Holt Algebra 1
*Organization is a key factor in being successful, thus each student is expected to keep a composition notebook where you will write all your notes in a sequential order and tape in any foldable. In addition, you will need a pocket folder to put any graded assignments and quizzes.
**The Birdville ISD Math Department recommends the TI-84 Edition graphing calculator. TI- 84 calculators are kept in the classroom for use of students, but cannot be checked out for home use. These calculators are allowed on all College Board tests and it is best to practice with the same calculator all the time. If you choose to invest in one, know that your student will use it all through high school and even college. Therefore, it is a great investment! Format and Procedures:
1. If you miss a class, whether by sickness or field trip, it is your responsibility to get your missing assignment off of my RHS website. You will have one day for every missed day until the missing assignment is due.
2. If you miss a test, you are responsible for taking the test the day that you return. If you are absent on the day of a review, you are still responsible to take the test on the assigned day. Only when students miss a day of instruction of new course content will they not be asked to take the test.
3. You will be expected to watch lesson videos through our Alg1 group on www.sophia.org for homework. You will also have a WSQ (watch-summarize-question), which is an online form that you must submit after watching the lesson video. Sophia tutorials must be done before class the next day. WSQs must be submitted as well and will count 30% of your grade for that content’s assignment. If for some reason you have technical issues, you MUST contact me by email OR first thing in the morning before school begins the next day. Because your out-of-class assignment will be to watch a video and submit an online form, if you are absent for whatever reason, you will still be expected to WSQ on schedule so you may participate in class when you return. Don’t worry! We will be discussing this “flipped classroom” in detail since it might be new to you!
4. Students scoring below 70% on a major assessment shall be allowed to retake a similar assessment after completing prerequisite work. The retest score can only be a maximum of 70% and you only have one week after the assessment to get this completed.
5. If you are absent the day a project or assignment is due, it is due the day you return to class or it will be marked late.
6. Late Work: You will lose 10 points per day that your assignment is late up until the day of the test and after that it will not be accepted.
7. Conduct: Be SAFE, Be RESPECTFUL and Be RESPONSIBLE (come to class on time and prepared)! Our classroom MUST be a safe zone to make mistakes and help each other to learn. I will not tolerate any MEANNESS WHATSOEVER!!!
8. No notes: no help, no work: no credit
Grading:
50% - Major Assessments (Tests/Projects/Writing Assessments) 50% - Minor Assessments (Quizzes/Journal Entries/Daily Work/Homework/etc) Major Assessments:
A minimum of three test grades will be taken each six weeks. Re-tests may be taken once all pre-requisite work has been turned in. All re-tests will be taken during after school tutorials on a date agreed upon by the teacher, and within five days of the original test. Projects will also be given periodically and will have minor and major assessments during the project.
Minor Assessments:
Daily work (in class work) will be assigned daily! Homework will consist of a video and WSQ. Also, classwork will be assessed through frequent quizzes (both announced & unannounced). Students may be able to use their notes and homework as a resource on quizzes periodically. Other assessments may include warm-ups, journal entries, exit tickets, group activities, and notebook checks.
Academic Integrity:
Each student in this course is expected to abide by the Birdville ISD Code of Conduct and Student Handbook with regards to Academic Integrity. Any work submitted by a student in this course for academic credit will be the student’s own work unless otherwise specifically directed by the teacher.
Algebra 1 Class Contract 2014 – 2015 I have read and agree to the terms of the class syllabus. I will give 100% effort in this class – including class work, homework, and any other activities the class is asked to do. I will respect each classmate by putting people up rather than putting people down, and listening carefully to everyone. I will choose not to bully anyone in any way, such as yelling, pushing, touching, judging, or annoying. Whatever is said in this room will stay in this room, so that this is a safe place to make mistakes and learn from them. I realize that I will be challenged in this class and it is my choice to accept the challenge. I acknowledge and will strive to meet the class expectations, and I will follow all class and school rules. I acknowledge and will accept the consequences if I fail to meet the class expectations or class and school rules. Now, scan the QR code below to go to my faculty website on the RHS website. Find the “student information” link on the right and complete the student info form and sign up for Remind 101.
***When you fill out the online form, there will be a statement that you will type out saying that you agree to the above statements.***