Algebra 1
Course syllabus 2015- 2016
Course Description: Algebra is the study of patterns and relationships. Topics covered include, but are not limited
to, operations with real numbers, solving linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, polynomials, exponents
and radicals and graphing functions. Additional concepts include geometry, data analysis, probability, and
statistics. Problem solving opportunities will be emphasized throughout the course.
Instructional Philosophy: Students will experience both lecture and individualized instruction in this class.
Students are expected to take notes and follow practice examples given on the new material. At times, lessons will
include lecture, small group activities, individualized assignments, or a combination of these. After completion of
each new concept student will have the chance to practice what they have learned in class. They can expect
homework for further practice on most nights to help master their new skills.
Grading Procedures (Homework, Quizzes, Tests)
1.
2.
Every day, there will be an opening assignment that is to be completed at the beginning of class.
Additionally, homework will be assigned daily and will be checked occasionally for 10 points each. Your grade
will be based on the amount of work completed. No late work will be accepted.
3. Homework will always be due at the next class period unless stated otherwise by the teacher. All assignments
should be done in pencil and ALL WORK MUST BE SHOWN! You will not receive credit if your work is not
shown.
4. A neat, organized notebook is essential for success in an upper-level mathematics class. A notebook test may
be given at the discretion of the instructor at any time during the semester. It is imperative to copy objectives,
examples, and homework into your notebook.
5. Quizzes can be given at any time that the teacher deems necessary and will vary in value. They may be
announced or unannounced.
6. There will be a test at the middle and/or end of each chapter and will vary in point value.
7. A cumulative final will be given at the end of the semester.
8. Grades will be based on the tests, quizzes, homework, and projects.
9. Bonus work may be given occasionally. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF BONUS WORK EARLY! No last minute bonus
work will be assigned.
10. You are encouraged to keep a grade sheet in your notebook. This will allow you to know your total points at
all times.
11. Cheating or talking during a test, (whether you are finished or not) will result in a reduction of your grade
(possibly to a zero). Have RESPECT for others while they are finishing their exams!
12. Quarter grades will be based on the following grading scale, as determined by district policy:
A 93-100%
Excellent Progress
B 85-92%
Good Progress
C 77-84%
Average Progress
D 70-76%
Poor Progress
F Below 70%
Failure
I
Incomplete
W Withdrawal from class
P Passing the course
13. The school-wide homework policy and grading scale for United Jr./Sr. High School is included in the ParentStudent Handbook (this handbook is available on-line @ http://www.unitedsd.net). Progress reports will be
mailed each 4 ½ weeks and grades will be updated weekly on Sapphire, our on-line grade reporting system.
Course Assessment Plan:
Grades will be calculated as follows:
Quarter Homework
15%
All Other Grades 85%
Year
First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter
Cumulative Final
22.5%
22.5%
22.5%
22.5%
10%
Attendance And Make-Up Work
If it is necessary for you to miss class, it is your responsibility to make-up all work missed. This includes notes,
homework, and handouts. You must make-up all work within a period of time equal to the number of days you
missed times two. For example, if you miss three days of school, work must be made-up within six days. If you
were present when a test was announced, you must take the test when scheduled.
Supplies and Materials Needed:
Bring to class daily:
1. Textbook
2. Folder/Binder/Notebook
3. Sharpened pencil and eraser
4. Completed homework
Rules and Procedures:
1. Be in your seat and prepared to work when the bell rings. I have hall duty between classes and expect
you to be ready to work when I enter the room.
2. Be an attentive listener and learner. Do not read or do other homework during class. There may be a few
opportunities to work on other homework, but I will announce to the class when those opportunities
arise.
3. No talking during announcements.
4. Students are not permitted to have food in the classroom. Gum is permitted if chewed quietly.
5. Students are not permitted to have drinks in the classroom (see handbook, p. 5).
6. No electrical devices of any kind are permitted in the classroom (cell phones and cameras included). If I
encounter any electrical devices, they will be turned in to the office.
7. The dress code described in the student handbook will be enforced.
8. RESPECT your classmate’s right to an education and my efforts to provide it.
Consequences
1. Verbal warning.
2. Phone call to parents.
3. Detention.
4. Referral to an administrator.
Contact: Parents or students my contact me via voice mail, email or phone.
Email: sdonelson@unitedsd.net
Voice mail: 814-446-5615 ext. 2407
Course Syllabus is Subject to Change at Teacher Discretion