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Algebra 1 Class Info

Algebra cartoon


Welcome to Algebra 1


This year you will be changing from Connected Mathematics to a more traditional, high school math course.  In addition to changing curriculums, how you approach math class, homework, and studying for math will also change. 

*NOTE: This course is considered a high school course, therefore the cumulative grade will be calculated as such.  This means that your final grade for the year will be based not only on each individual marking period, but also a cumulative final.  Each marking period will count for 22.5% of your cumulative grade.  The final will comprise the last 10% of your grade.  Be sure to keep all of your notes, tests, and quizzes to help you prepare for the final.

Expectations


* You will be expected to take your own notes in class every day.
* You will be expected to copy notes if you miss class, having a complete notebook at all times.
* You will be expected to learn vocabulary as it relates to the material & to be mathematically literate.
* You will be expected to complete homework assignments every night and to check it each day in class.
* You will be expected to bring your book, calculator, notebook, and a pencil to class every day.
* You will be expected to learn a new material on a regular basis & to keep up with the class.
* You will be expected to study, practice, and review math before all tests/quizzes.
* You will be expected to be responsible for your own mathematics education by asking questions when you do not understand the material, coming in for AREA, if needed, and scheduling time to meet with me when you are having difficulty. 

What makes a good Algebra 1 student?


A student who does well in Algebra 1 is first mathematically ready for the Algebraic content.  Secondly, students who are appropriately placed in Algebra 1 are able to acquire new skills easily, as long as they are given the time to allow the material to absorb & receive enough practice.  These students appreciate having someone pull them along somewhat through the material, but for the most part can pick up the material with a little extra practice and is then ready to move on to new content.  Next, students who do well in Algebra 1 are enthusiastic enough about Algebra to work harder on the material as it becomes more difficult, to participate in class, and to ask questions as they arise.  Finally, a good Algebra 1 student is willing to admit that math might not come as easily to them as it did in the past, is willing to get help outside of regular class time, and knows that, not only is it possible to study for math, but that they need to do so!


Materials
 
Alg book

Your Algebra text will be Prentice Hall Mathematics: Algebra 1.  You may access your book online, so there is no need to carry your book back and forth between home and school as long as you have a good internet connection. The website also has many video tutorials and practice problems for you to get extra help and extra practice 24/7.  Go to the online resources page.

Calc

Texas Instruments (TI-83).  This calculator will be a vital part of your study of Algebra.  A TI-83 or TI-83(+) will be provided to you at no cost to keep and to use for the duration of the school year.  You are responsible for buying and replacing batteries; you'll need 4 AAA batteries.  If your loaned calculator is lost, stolen, broken, or returned at the end of the year in an unusable condition, you will be charged the replacement cost of the calculator, currently $90.  If you wish, you may also purchase your own TI-83(+).  For most students, this calculator will be sufficient for use throughout high school and college, so it can be a good investment for the future.

Topics of Study

We will not cover every chapter, nor will we complete every section of each chapter that we study.  However, the chapter titles and areas of study we will be covering this year are:


Chapter 1: Variables, Function Patterns, and Graphs
Chapter 2: Rational Numbers
Chapter 3: Solving Equations
Chapter 4: Solving Inequalities
Chapter 5: Graphs and Functions
Chapter 6: Linear Equations and Their Graphs
Chapter 7: Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Chapter 8: Exponents and Exponential Functions
Chapter 9: Polynomials and Factoring
Chapter 10: Quadratic Equations and Functions
Chapter 11: Radical Expressions and Equations