2 Algebra I Syllabus
Ms. Alleva
Room: B211
jalleva@rtmsd.org
610-627-6255
Course Description:
“In this honors level course, Algebra is a language used to extend the ideas of arithmetic.
Variables (letters) are used to represent numbers, and these variables are combined
according to the rules of arithmetic. Students learn to simplify expressions with
variables, to solve and graph linear equations and inequalities, and to solve systems of
equations and inequalities. Other topics include: addition, subtraction, multiplication,
and division of polynomials along with square roots and the solution of quadratic
equations. A primary goal of algebra is the use of mathematical ideas in solving a wide
variety of word problems.” While this course will involve abstract thinking that can be
challenging, it is an extremely important foundation for the rest of your math career.
Text:
Big Ideas Math: Algebra 1. Larson, Boswell, et al © 2015. Our text is available as an iPad
app, which we will set up together during the first week of school.
Materials:
 Graph Paper Notebook or loose-leaf paper
 Folder or 3-ring binder
 Pencils (NO PENS PLEASE!!)
 Graphing Calculator (TI-83+ or TI-84+)
Calculator can be loaned from the school with the completion of a calculator
contract
Lateness:
If you are not in your seat when the bell rings, you are considered late to class. Two
lates will result in a 20-minute detention, three lates will result in a parent phone call
and more than three lates will result in administrative action.
Exams and Quizzes:
You grade will be determined by a points system based on exams, quizzes, class
activities, oral defenses, and homework. There will typically be 3-5 exams each quarter
worth 100 points, as well as a quarterly exam at the end of the first and third marking
periods, a midterm, and a final. Quiz points will vary based on length. Class Activity
points will vary based on assignment.
Oral Defense:
An oral defense is a different way for students to demonstrate understanding of a topic.
Given a problem and prompt, students will create a video where they orally explain a
mathematical topic. Students will also have the opportunity to show and explain their
work through different iPad apps. Videos will be submitted to me through Google
Classroom. Students will have to complete at least 1 oral defense per marking period,
each worth 20 points.
2 Algebra I Syllabus
Homework:
Homework assignments will be posted on my website as well as located in the front of
each notes packet. Assignments will consist of textbook work, worksheets, and KAHN
Academy assignments. Homework will be checked frequently in class. Students are
expected to have homework assignments completed on the due date with ALL WORK
SHOWN to receive full credit. Each assignment will be graded out of 5 points, earning 5
points for homework completed before the test, 0 points for homework not completed
before the test, an X for homework completed after the test (“0” counts as 0 points
toward the grade, “X” does not give additional points toward the grade but will negate a
score of 0).
Extra Credit:
Extra credit can be earned in multiple ways each marking period. Students may submit
up to 2 Penncrest sports articles found in the newspaper per marking period (maximum
4 points), 1 “Math in the News” article per marking period, which should include a brief
summary of how math was used in the real-world and a copy on the article, or a link to
the article when handed in (maximum 4 points), or attend two different schoolsponsored event (music, sports, etc.), bringing a photo of themselves at the event to be
hung around the room (maximum 4 points). EXTRA CREDIT WILL NOT EXCEED 4
POINTS PER MARKING PERIOD!
Absence and Make-Up Work:
Please check your notes, my website, or with a classmate for any notes or work missed
due to an absence. Make-up work is YOUR responsibility! Absent students will have
the opportunity to make up missed work up until the day that they take the chapter
exam. In the event of an UNLAWFUL absence, no credit will be given for any exam or
assignment.
Cheating:
If a student is caught cheating, they will receive a zero on that assignment, quiz, or test.
Class Rules:
1. Be respectful
2. 180 First Dates…
3. Don’t be “that guy”
4. Be willing to take a chance
Extra Help:
There will be extra help available everyday after school until 3pm unless there is a
school wide meeting. I want every student to succeed, and I am willing to go everything
I can to help!