ALGEBRA I Mrs. Follis
MAT100, Section 01 Spring 2013
Course Description:
Algebra 1 is the first course in the mathematics curriculum and is designed to provide students with a comprehensive knowledge base in preparation for subsequent math and science courses. In preparation for the challenges of the future, you are expected to exhibit a level of mastery that will demonstrate your ability to use, apply and adapt your knowledge. Your performance will be assessed using numerical, algebraic, graphical and verbal methods. Topics that will be learned include, but are not limited to, the following:
§ Review of mathematical sentences, expressions, variables, order of operations, algebraic properties and basic operations using the number line, integers and rational numbers.
§ Determining ratios and proportions, solving problems with discounts, simple interest, direct and inverse variation.
§ Solving linear equations using algebraic and graphing methods, understanding functions and relations and finding values of linear functions, using linear equations to solve real world applications.
§ Analyzing linear equations algebraically and graphically, determining slope, x- and y- intercepts, parallel and perpendicular lines and midpoints.
§ Algebraic and graphing techniques for solving inequalities, absolute value equations and linear inequalities in two variables.
§ Solving systems of linear equations in two variables using algebraic and graphing methods.
§ Simplifying polynomial expressions, addition, subtraction and multiplication of polynomials, the laws of exponents, GCF and LCM of integers and factoring polynomials, factoring patterns.
§ Simplifying, addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of rational expressions, further study on exponents - negative and zero exponents, scientific notation, solving equations with fractional coefficients and solving rational equations.
§ Introduction to roots of real numbers, using various properties to simplify, add, subtract, multiply and divide radical expressions.
§ Graphical analysis of the quadratic functions and solving quadratic equations using the quadratic formula, solving and graphing exponential functions and problems involving growth and decay.
Required Materials:
Textbook: Algebra 1. Prentice Hall/Pearson Publishing Co.
Supplementary Reading: The Number Devil by Hans Magnus Enzensberger.
Plastic expandable pocket folder is best. Loose-leaf paper.
Pencils and erasers. No calculators.
Grading Policy:
Grades are determined by a combination of tests, quizzes, homework and classroom assignments. The final exam will be comprehensive in nature and will be approximately 18 -20% of the final grade. Grades are based on the total points earned divided by total points available, points are cumulative and the final grade is based on the final percentage.
Test and Quiz Policy:
If you are absent on the day of a test, a make-up test must be taken the day you return. Make-up tests are taken in your classroom at 2:45 PM (accommodations can be made to take missed tests in homework hotel) and a missed quiz cannot be made up. If you miss a quiz you will receive your average quiz score for the missing quiz. If you are absent the day before a test you will take the test the day after the rest of the class. You will have mandatory encore if you fail a test or a quiz or if your cumulative grade is 75% or less.
Homework Policy:
Expect a written assignment almost every night in addition to frequent internet videos such as Kahn Academy, You Tube and Ted. The written assignment is due the day of the chapter test and worth 15 points. Frequent homework quizzes will be used to assess correct completion of the assignments. Late assignments will not be accepted and a score of zero will be entered for the assignment. This policy is subject to change as necessary.
Classroom Behavior:
§ Show respect for yourself and everyone else in the classroom.
§ Be responsible for your work and your required class materials.
§ Give your very best effort every day.
§ Behave appropriately in the classroom setting.
§ Failure to follow the required classroom behaviors will result in a phone call to your parents and an after school detention on the first occurrence. Subsequent inappropriate behavior incidents will be handled by the Dean of Students.
Ensuring Your Success:
§ Pay attention in class.
§ Keep all notes, homework, quizzes and tests in an organized manner.
§ Ask questions.
§ Study for tests.
§ Do your homework.
Contacting your Teacher:
Email:
Webpage: www.vianney.com/follis.html
During encore, before and after school: Room 404.
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