Algebra I Syllabus
David Woolston Will O’Brien Matthew Grooms
Course Description:
An introductory course in algebra that will prepare the student for advanced algebraic concepts.
Course Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, the student will have demonstratedan understanding of the 2009 Virginia Standards of Learning for Algebra I through class discussions, coursework, quizzes, tests, and exams
Textbook:
A class set of the text book will be available for use in class. Students may check out a textbook for use at home as long as they are available. They are due on Mondays.
Calculator:
Each student is required to have access to his/her own TI-83 Plus or TI-84 Plus calculator to use at home for homework assignments and other practice. Please see the Course Materials for ways to access this calculator at home for free. A class set of these calculators are available for use in class. It is YOUR responsibility to ensure that your calculator is turned in prior to the end of class in the same condition as when it was given to you. In the event that damage is detected or your calculator is not accounted for at the end of class, you will be fined $90 by Robert E. Lee High School and be held to consequences set forth in the Student Handbook for unpaid fines and fees.
Course Materials:
Pencil or Pen (but not blue or red ink)
Math Folder or binder
Students are also required to have access to his/her own TI-83 Plus or TI-84 Plus calculator to use at home for homework assignments and other practice. An online version is available for free download or there is a free app for Android phones available through the Google Play store. We are also able to download the computer version to a USB drive for you. Otherwise, the calculator is available for purchase through area stores.
Progress Reports:
Progress reports will be distributed to each student approximately every three weeks.
Tutoring:
Students who need extra help are strongly encouraged to make an appointment to see me after school for tutoring and/or attend Plus block.
Grading Procedure:
The student’s grade will be comprised of grades in five categories. The approximate percentage of the final grade for each category will be as follows:
Tests (45%):
You will have a cumulative test about every 3 weeks. All tests will be announced at least 2 days before the test day.
Quizzes (35%):
You will have approximately one quiz per week.
Classwork (10%):
Algebra I is best learned through practice. Therefore, each student should come to class ready and willing to work.
Homework (10%):
It is essential to continually review and practice skills and concepts learned previously. As such, homework will be assigned on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights. These assignments will consist of review problems to aid in long-term retention. Homework is due upon entrance to the classroom. If a student is absent, he/she will be required to turn in the homework due from the last day in class. Homework assignments from the day absent will NOT be made up.
Exam Exemptions:
Mid-term Exam: No students will be exempt from the mid-term exam.
Final Exam: Students who have passed the Algebra I SOL Test and have 10 or fewer absences (excused or unexcused) will be exempt. However, a student may choose to take the exam to improve his/her grade.
Classroom Expectations:
Be Prompt – Be Prepared – Be Positive – Be Responsible – Be Respectful
Conduct Grade Rubric:
Conduct grade will be based on a student meeting the classroom expectations. Conduct grades will be earned as follows:
A: Consistently exhibits desired qualities
B: Regularly exhibits desired qualities
C: Sometimes exhibits desired qualities
D: Seldom exhibits desired qualities
F: Consistently does not exhibit desired qualities
Please read the Student Handbook and Code of Conduct in its entirety and especially note procedures on absences, tardiness, and cell phones. The rules will be strictly enforced.
Additional Class Rules:
Students will abide by the policies and procedures set forth by Staunton City Schools and Robert E. Lee High School. Students will turn in cell phones at the start of each period and the phone will be returned at the end of the period. If a student is using a phone or other electronic device during class time, it will be confiscated. The electronic device will be sent to the officewith a referral for defiance.
Students will not be allowed food or drink in the classroom except for bottled waterand drinks from the approved vending machines in the school.
Retake Policy:
Tests: Students may retake a testbefore or after school for full replacement value. Retakes for tests
mustbe scheduledwithin one week of receiving the grade.
Quizzes:Students may retake a quiz before or after school for full replacement value. Retakes for
quizzes must be scheduled within one week of receiving the grade.
Classwork: Students may not retake classwork assignments.
Homework: Students may not retake homework assignments.
Mid-Term Exam: Students may retake the mid-term in order raise a failing grade to a 60%.
Final Exam: Students may not retake the final exam.
Attendance/Make-up Work:
Students should be in attendance every day. Additionally, tardiness to class will not be tolerated. Students who are tardy 3 times in the semester will receive a discipline referral. Another discipline referral will be given for each tardy after that. Students who are more than 5 minutes late to class without a pass will be given a discipline referral.In the event that a student is absent from class, he/she is responsible for obtaining the missing assignments and completing it in a timely manner. Missing assignments will be graded as a 0 until the assignment is completed. If extenuating circumstances exist, the student should discuss it with the teacherand a new due date will be set. All quizzes and tests must be made up prior to the end of the quarter. Failure to make up a quiz or test will result in an incomplete grade for the course.Students should take advantage of the PLUS Block to make up missing assignments.
Parent/Teacher Communication:
Parents can communicate with me in person, by telephone, in writing, or through email about any questions or concerns. If needed, please make an appointment to see me during planning (4th block), after school, or by setting up an appointment through your guidance counselor.
All students attending Staunton City Public Schools may participate in education programs and activities, including but not limited to health and physical education, music, vocational and technical education. Educational programs and services will be designed to meet the varying needs of all students and will not discriminate against any individual for reasons of race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, or gender.
I have read and understand the Math Department’s expectations for the Algebra I class.
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