Integrated Algebra Honors
Mrs. T. Bell-Groucher
Phone: (845)298-5100 ext. 50534
Email: District Website:
Course Description
This is a one year program that prepares you for the NYS Common Core Algebra exam in June which you must pass as part of your mathematics requirement for graduation.
Instructional Materials /Resources
Scientific Calculator (A graphing calculator is preferred but not required. TI-84/TI-84 Plus recommended.), 3 Ring Binder or folder for this class only, Pen (blue or Black) and a Pencil.
The textbook is Big Ideas Math Algebra 1: A Common Core Curriculum by Ron Larson and Laurie Boswell. The online Textbook can be found at Each student will be able to access online materials.
Units of Instruction Aligned with Common Core Curriculum Standards
Unit 1 – Solving Linear Equations Unit 2 – Solving Linear Inequalities Unit 3 – Graphing Linear Functions
Unit 4 – Writing Linear Functions Unit 5 – Solving Systems of Linear Equations Unit 6 Exponential Functions and Sequences Unit 7 – Polynomial Equations and Factoring Unit 8 – Graphing Quadratic Functions Unit 9 – Solving Quadratic Equations Unit 10 Radical Functions and Equations Unit 11- Data Analysis and Displays
Relevance
This course will provide a solid foundation for further study in mathematics by helping students develop computational, procedural, and problem-solving skills. To be good at mathematics, students must learn to translate real-life situations to mathematical models and obtain solutions; and Algebra will help students develop this skill.
Course Objectives
Students will assume responsibility for their learning by:
1. Keeping an acceptable notebook consisting of notes taken in class, homework, handouts and graded
papers. You should be in the habit of saving all notes, quizzes and tests tohelp you prepare for future exams.
2. Coming to class prepared with the required materials every day (pen or pencil, and notebook/folder).
3. Completing all assignments and turning them in on time
4. Reviewing class notes daily/practice (examples include doing homework, reading notes, re-visitingexamples
from class), and seeks tutoring when necessary.
5. Always putting forth your best effort and keeping a positive attitude towards learning.
Classroom Procedures
- Students are expected to arrive on time, enter class quietly and complete the daily warm-up activity.
- Homework is assigned on a daily basis. Students are responsible for each day’s work. Homework must be complete, in pen or pencil, and neatly. Students should be ready to go over homework after the warm up activity and make all necessary corrections.
- During teacher led activities, listen actively.
- During group work, contribute wisely.
- Write down the homework assignment and make sure directions are understood before leaving class.
- Electronic devices and hats are NOT allowed in class.
Grading
Quarterly grades are calculated using a point system. Your average will be based on total
number of points earned (daily homework assignments, weekly quizzes, unit tests, classwork,etc.)
divided by total possible points, and then multiplied by 100. . The lengths of homework assignments will vary and
so will the points assignment. The difference between tests and quizzes will be determined by how much
information is covered in each.
Assessment
In addition to quizzes, andunit tests, students will take a midterm which will be a district wide exam at
the end of the 2nd marking period as well as the common core algebra exam at the end of the year.
The common core exam will represent 20% of the overall average as it is considered the 5th marking period.
Homework/Make-Up Work
Homework will be assigned almost every night and checked at the beginning of each class in a variety of ways: student working on board, collection, or checking for completeness.
Daily completion of homework assignments is expected and required for success. It is expected that the assignment will be completed by the beginning of the next class period.
Doing your homework will help your gradeby earning points and preparing you for tests and quizzes. We go over homework immediately after it has been checked.
Make-up work is YOUR responsibility. When you are absent, you can check my website which is updated weekly and revised if necessary. If you don’t have computer access please phone a friend or see teacher immediately upon return to get the missing assignment(s).
Behavior Guidelines
- Cooperate with your teacher and peers.
- Respect the rights and property of others.
- Carry out your student responsibilities. Any behavior that interferes with the learning of self or others will not be allowed and will be dealt with accordingly and consistently. All rules and policies in the handbook will be upheld.
Consequences
Any infraction of the rules stated above or in the student handbook will be addressed.
A warning will be given. If any further action is necessary, it will usually occur in the following order: 1. Verbal Warning 2. Student Conference 3. Parent Contact 4. Referral
Rewards
Verbal Praise/Written Praise
Catcher coupons (can be used to add 2 pts on a test/quiz or used as 1 free homework pass)
Extra Help
Please ask for help before problems escalate!!! Letting me know the day of the test is too late. I strongly encourage you to speak with me the minute you begin to have difficulty. The content of this course builds upon itself, so if you are having difficulty with the present material and do not ask for help, you will be severely hindered in learning the future material. I will be available after school every Thursday from 1:50 – 2:40pm. If I need to reschedule, an announcement will be made in class. Please attend as you deemed necessary. Additional free resources: the learning center, and
Please check my website which can be found through the RCK webpage for important information and to keep up with homework assignments.
Parents please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s progress via phone or email.
Class: Integrated Algebra Honors Teacher: Mrs. Bell-Groucher
Student Information
Please print all information neatly and sign below, verifying that both you and your parent/guardian have read the course outline.
Student Name:______ID #:______
Guidance Counselor:______Textbook #: ______
Name of Parent(s)/Guardian: ______
Phone #: (H/C) ______(W)______
Best time and way to be reached: ______
Parent/Guardian Email (s): (Please print clearly)
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Parent/Guardian Signature:______Date: ______
Student Signature:______Date: ______
Academic Concerns:
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***Signing above indicates that you have reviewed the course syllabus (separate sheet) and that the information listed here is correct. Together we can help to make this a successful year for your child!
Contact Log:
Date / Reason / Phone or Email