ROWE MIDDLE SCHOOL
Instructor: Carl Sander
E-mail: sanderc@nclack.k12.or.us
ALGEBRA
Phone: 503-353-5735 x37140
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Algebra is a high school level course offered to students who have met Algebra readiness criteria and have
been recommended by their previous math teacher. This course demands a strong work ethic and covers a
multitude of algebraic concepts to prepare students to take Geometry next year. High school credit is given
for this course, and each QUARTER grade will be on students’ high school transcripts and part of the High
School GPA.
TOPICS COVERED
Expressions and Solving Equations
System of Equations
Properties of Exponents
Linear, Exponential, and Quadratic Functions
Statistics
(Common Core Standard codes are referenced on the NCSD website.)
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
How do I write and solve linear equations?
How can I use scatter plots, histograms, and other graphs to compare data sets?
How can I use solve a system of equations using a number of different methods?
How can I use exponential properties to simplify an expression?
How can I use factoring and/or the quadratic formula to solve quadratic equations?
INSTRUCTIONAL TEXT
“Discovering Algebra.” We will use this book on occasion throughout the year. We will spend much of the
year using supplemental material.
FORMATIVE ASSESSMENTS
Connection problems, daily tasks, quizzes, computer scored assignments, exit slips.
SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENTS
Unit Tests
GRADING PURPOSE and STATEMENT
The purpose of grading is to communicate student progress towards learning targets, provide information for
students to self-evaluate their own progress, offer incentives for students to learn, and inform me as the
teacher about the effectiveness of my instruction. A student’s overall grade will be based on a collection of
assignments and formative and summative assessments. All final grades will reflect student performance on
academic work related to state and district content standards.
Formative Assessment: “for learning” - Academic Practice
Formative assessments are used to determine what a student has learned at a specific point in time in order to
inform the teacher and students of specific areas that need to be retaught/relearned or addressed in a new
format. Typically, formative assessments do not carry a significant value toward a student’s grade.
Depending on the task, students are encouraged or invited to redo their work.
Summative Assessment: “of learning” - Academic Achievement
Summative assessments of learning are used to determine what students know and can do at a particular point
in time. In other words, a summative assessment is a means to gauge, at a particular point in time, student
learning relative to content standards. These assessments are often used as grade determiners and
accountability measures. Summative assessments carry the greatest weight when determining a student’s
final grade. Students generally do not have the opportunity to retake or redo summative assessments.
GRADING POLICY
Assignments = 1 points *
A = 90% - 100%
Quizzes
= 15 points (may vary)
B = 80% - 89%
Tests
= 50 points (may vary)
C = 70% - 79%
D = 60% - 69%
F = 59% and below
*The score for student work turned in late will be reduced. Most students who complete their homework on
time do better on assessments as well as learning new concepts. Assessments make up 90% of each student’s
final grade.
GRADE REPORTS
Current grades are accessible through Synergy; North Clackamas School District’s grading system. You will
also receive a progress report and final grade report provided through the District.
High School Credit:
Students must receive a grade of “C” or better for each semester, as well as score at least 70% on the end of
year final exam in order to move on to Geometry. The semester grade will be recorded on the High school
transcript (equivalent to 1 year of high school Algebra). No extra fees or paperwork is required for high
school credit, however, students have an “opt out” option to repeat Algebra and not include their grade from
this class.
SUPPLIES NEEDED
A 3-ring binder to include:
Dividers for 3 sections
Graph paper with ¼ inch squares A ruler (6 inch is good.)
Pencils
Basic scientific calculator (A TI-83 or 84-plus graphing calculator is optional.)
***Please sign and return this form to Mr. Sander by Tuesday, September 9th for credit!***
_______________________________
Student’s Name (please PRINT)
_______________________________
Parent/Guardian’s Name (please PRINT)
______________________ __________
___________________ ________
Student Signature
Date
Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date