Algebra I Class Expectations

Course Description: This course serves as the first in the sequence of college preparatory mathematics. Concepts are introduced in the context of real-world problems in order to increase the conceptual development of the student. This course covers graphs in the coordinate plane, linear equations and inequalities, radicals, polynomials, quadratics, and data analysis. The concept of functions is emphasized using graphical, verbal, numerical, and algebraic methods.

Materials for Class: Students are required to come to class everyday with:

1. Textbook,
2. Spiral Notebook (for note taking/outlining)
3. A binder, which includes the following sections:
o Homework
o Tests/Quizzes
o Projects/Drawings
4. Computer (with required software)

Participation: Because learning is an active process, every student is expected to show active participation in class. Participation includes answering questions during class, making relevant comments and suggestions during class, helping other students, and answering homework questions.

Lateness: You are expected to arrive to class on time and prepared to work every day. Read the Miller School Student Handbook about more information on this topic.
Absences: When you miss a class, you will be expected to complete all the work from that day and keep up with any note taking/outlining. A syllabus will be provided for all assignments and my math blog will have updates. Email me at the address above if you need clarification. If you miss a test or quiz, we will set up a time for you to take it. You are responsible for submitting work missed.

Classroom Behavior: Please respect your classmates, your teacher and their property. I expect you to be polite and courteous to your classmates and your teacher to promote the best possible learning environment.

Homework:
• Homework will be assigned daily from your syllabus. It may consist of problems from the text, outlining and note taking, journal writing, or other project work. Always record the homework in your planner and keep your syllabus with your materials.

• Homework should always be completed in pencil in the required format. Check all odd answers in the back of the book. I expect you to correct the rest of the answers from your homework as we go over it in class. Making mistakes is important in how you learn.

• Maintaining your notebook will be a critical part of the class and notebook checks and notebook quizzes may be given frequently.

• Homework is all about reinforcing what you learn in class and will be graded on effort, organization, and neatness. Rewrite the original problem from your textbook and always show your work. You will not receive credit for answers alone. Homework will be graded daily out of 5 points. If you miss a homework assignment you will be responsible for getting the work completed as we go over it in class and you will be given an additional assignment as well as mandatory Help Session or Saturday Study Hall.

Each assignment should have your:
1. Name
2. Date
3. Page and numbers assigned
4. Original problem
5. All required steps for solving
6. Final answer clearly stated

Computer: A computer is mandatory for this course. We will be occasionally using Google SketchUp and Geogebra software which are free downloads from the internet. You will also need you computer to have access to the Miller School Math Blog.

Grading: The semester grade will be computed by the following percentages:

Quizzes 35% (Quizzes on material will be announced and covered smaller portions of the material. Outline quizzes are unannounced and test how well you have taken notes on a particular reading.)

Tests 30% (Tests will be announced in advance and will cover larger portions of the material.)

Homework 30% (Homework from the text book is checked and graded daily. Preparation is also included as a part of homework which means all required materials are brought to class daily. Note taking/Outlining is also homework as well as any writing assignments.)

Participation 5% (Students are expected to contribute to the class discussion daily.)

Help: I am always available for extra help during 7th period. If you have questions about the homework, any upcoming tests or quizzes, or anything about the class please stop by. You can make an appointment with me or just drop in, but please be on time to help sessions.

- Mr. Macdonald