Hirschi Math – Science IB Magnet High School
Algebra I
Coach David Cavitt – Rm. 125
Students & Parents:
I am extremely excited about the 2014-2015 school year and the opportunity to work along side with you and your child in making their first year a success here at Hirschi School. This letter is to inform you of our classroom procedures and policies. We have already discussed this with the students, but we also wanted you to be aware of the grading and discipline methods.
Discipline/Tardies: I use the method outlined in the Hirschi handbook for consequences. I keep track of student offenses and this also affects the student’s conduct grade.
Grading Categories: Tests: 50% Daily Grades: 25% Classwork/Homework: 25%
Materials:
- Composition Notebook
- Pencil with eraser
Progress Report Please ask your child periodically about his/her work. A progress report will be sent home the 3rd week of every six weeks. We will set aside time for tutorials, if needed. To access student grades, go the District website under Skyward.
Course Description This is a comprehensive study of elementary algebra. It includes 5 reporting category: Functional Relationships, Properties and Attributes of Functions, Linear Functions, Linear Equations and Inequalities, and Quadratic and Other Nonlinear Functions. This course is to prepare the student with skills used in problem-solving and higher level algebra like that found in algebra II. This is a freshman level course. Students should spend significant time outside of class studying in preparation of test and assignments.
Overall Goal and Objectives The overall goal is to develop a concrete foundation for standard level math. This course is also designed to exceed the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) or End of Course Assessment (EOC). Hopefully, the student and teacher will work side-by-side to master all elements of algebra I.
Attendance We adhere to the attendance policy as stated in the Hirschi High School Handbook. Students are held responsible for the material missed when absent.
Test will be given approximately at the end of each unit (two to three weeks). Students will be given 45 to 90 minutes to complete the test using a calculator. Dates for re-takes will be determined by me, the instructor.
Daily Grades will be given in class over previously learned concepts or current material. They may be announced or unannounced, such as a quiz or in class assignment for grade accuracy. The purpose of a quiz or in class assignment is to assess or gage the student’s level of understanding before the test. Results of the scoring will be returned to the students as soon as possible.
Classwork/Homework is personal practice to make sure one understands the content. The score is a completion grade for effort and participation. Assignments should be turned in on time; however, students will be given ample time to complete class work assignments in class. However, if students don’t finish their class work assignment in class, it becomes homework. Correct answers will be provided for the homework and the opportunity to ask questions regarding homework will be given at the beginning of each class.
Academic Dishonesty Cheating in any form will not be tolerated. Cheating is stealing grades and is a crime not only against the teacher and institution, but against your fellow classmates. Plagiarism is considered cheating and will result in a grade of zero.
Misconduct If a student is singled out for excessive talking or is in any way disruptive and disrespectful to the professor or to the class, then that student will be reprimanded by the teacher. If this doesn’t work a call home will be made and documented outlining the behavior. If the behavior still exists referral to the administration will be made. Various disturbances (fighting and more serious infractions) may occur that elicit a swifter response. Those will be dealt with as needed.
Personal Teaching Philosophy I believe every student has the ability to learn. Each student may not learn in the same manner as other students, but they do have a method in which they can learn. My job as the teacher is to present the material in as many different ways as possible to facilitate all the learning styles in the classroom. My goal is to see all students do algebra I and pass the EOC Test. Therefore, I need your help in the above things in order for your child to be successful.
We look forward to working with you this year. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call me at (940) 781—2122 or email me at .
Sincerely,
Coach David Cavitt Sr.
Please fill out and have your child return the information on the next page to me for a grade.
Hirschi Math – Science IB Magnet High School
2014-2015
Algebra I
Coach David Cavitt – Rm. 125
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