Mr. Michael Neuser
Park View H.S.
2015-2016
Contact me at: michael.neuser@lcps.org
Welcome to Algebra I. This challenging course will not only test your ability to perform
and communicate mathematically, but it will also enhance your thinking and analytical
skills, as well as your personal organization and interpersonal skills. The Virginia State
Standards of Learning will provide the guide for our pursuit this year. These objectives
will be the backbone of our studies and will be important to master.
The student will demonstrate mastery in the following areas:
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Functions
Solving equations
Statistics and probability
Solving/graphing inequalities
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Polynomials
Factoring
Graphing linear equations
Quadratics
Recommended Learning Materials (to bring to each class meeting):
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3-ring binder (suggested sections ~ Notes, Practice, Entrance/Exit Quiz, Quiz/Test)
Lined paper
Graph paper
Sharpened pencils w/ erasers
Color pencils
Flash Drive (at least 1 GB)
TI-83/84 calculator
Positive attitude and willingness to learn
Where to find Mr. Neuser:
1st: SMT
2nd: 2304 – Algebra I/PRIDE
3rd: planning
4th: 2306 – Algebra II Trig
5th: 2306 – Algebra I
6th: 2304 – Algebra I/PRIDE
7th: 2306 – Algebra I
8th: department planning
Before school: 2214 (usually by 8am)
After school: 2214 (see my website for current after school times)
The Flipped Classroom:
 The traditional order of teaching will be “flipped” in order to create a more supportive classroom
environment where students learn for understanding and receive more individualized attention.
 For “homework”, students will watch tutorials which I create and post online. These will provide the
lesson and examples to help the student understand each topic at his/her own pace. S/He may
pause, rewind, or review tutorials at any time.
 While watching the tutorials, students will be completing a guided set of notes. This should help
students maintain focus and call attention to important information.
 For “classwork”, students will be paired together based on the score from the Entrance Quiz. This
partnership will then help each other to understand the concepts via practice sets or activities.
Understanding will be assessed at the end of class with an Exit Quiz. Any improvement from the
partnership will be divided between the students and awarded as Progress Points.
 Students are expected to come to class prepared each day.
Retake Policy:
 I expect that you will come prepared to show mastery the first time an assessment is taken.
 If you are not satisfied, or have not demonstrated mastery on a certain topic, you may choose to
retake the assignment.
 To qualify for a retake, you must have completed all practice sets that correspond to the assignment.
I will also expect that you make any corrections to the assessment you wish to retake. You must
schedule an appropriate time to meet with me to demonstrate your preparedness for the retake.
 If you choose to retake an assignment, the grade achieved on the retake will be the grade that is
recorded.
Grading:
 I will be grading on a total point system. Add the number of points that are earned, divide this by the
number of possible points, and multiply by 100.
Tardies/Absences:
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Unexcused tardies and absences will NOT be tolerated.
1st tardy = warning, 2nd = call home to parents, 3rd = teacher d-hall, 4th+ = admin d-hall
It is YOUR responsibility to obtain missed work from my webpage while you are absent.
Tutorials, Notes, Practice sheets, and other useful information will be posted on my webpage.
Expectations:
 Be on time to class (the professional world does not accept tardiness).
 Please come prepared to each class with a willingness to learn and an open mind.
 My class is organized for cooperative learning. I believe that everyone in my class is a learner, but
also a teacher. Help each other learn. You will find that teaching someone else helps you to
understand the topic better! Progress Points will be awarded to groups who improve together.
 An organized notebook is the key to success in this class.
 Daily participation is expected, so please ask questions.
 Do your best on each assignment.
 You will come to class prepared for each quiz/test. Review will be minimal the day of a quiz/test
(major concerns should be addressed before class).
 You are all unique and valuable; respect yourself and others.
 Dishonesty is unacceptable in this class. The Honor Code is in effect with all that you do. A student
caught cheating on anything may receive a “0” and further administrative action.
Policies are subject to change. Please read and sign the attached signature sheet.