2015-16 Algebra I
Course Syllabus
Instructional Area: Mathematics
Subject: Algebra I
Instructor: Nick Skaggs
Email: nick.skaggs@warren.kyschools.us
Grade Level: 9
Length: 1 semester
Credit: 1
The Algebra credit is a core class in both diplomas. Geometry or Basic Geometry follows this course.
Geometry must be completed before the end of the 10th grade and Algebra II must be completed before the end
of the 11th grade. During the 12th grade, students will have a choice of an upper level math course in which to
enroll. Choices may include Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus, AP Probability and Statistics, Pre-College, and more.
An emphasis on the use of technology and writing to learn mathematics is incorporated in each math course.
Technology will be used to aide students in understanding mathematics and real world problem solving
enabling the visual learner to comprehend abstract expression. All math classes include constructed response
problems. Graphing calculators will be utilized.
Course Description: This course is a requirement for all students. An emphasis will be placed on connections
between the numerical, algebraic, and graphic approaches to solving problems. Students will learn about the
structure of expressions and what it means’ to solve an equation or inequality. They will investigate
characteristics of functions, including linear, exponential and quadratic. A calculator is VERY vital for your
child’s success in this class. A graphing calculator will be utilized often, but not a requirement. There is a
classroom set of TI-84 calculators that students will access to use. However, it is helpful if they at least have a
general calculator to complete assignments in class or at home.
Units of Study:
Phase I
Unit 1
Expressions and Equations
Unit 2
Solving Inequalities
Unit 3
Functions
Unit 4
Linear Equations/Inequalities
3 weeks
2 weeks
1 week
3 weeks
Phase II
Unit 5
Unit 6
Unit 7
Unit 8
2 weeks
1 week
3 weeks
2 weeks
Systems of Equations
Exponents
Polynomials and Quadratics
Statistics
*FINAL EXAM
Class Format: Students are expected to participate in class each day. Class activities could include bellringers, examples, guided practice, writing, discovery, application, collaborative activities, and formative or
summative assessment. A calculator (TI-84 or TI-30) will be important to class work and homework. Students
will be given opportunity in class to ask and answer questions over homework. Students are expected to be
engaged by asking questions and working both collaboratively and independently. Any students needing
additional help should speak with me quickly so that they do not get behind. Questions are welcome any time.
Grading
 Quarter grades will be determined by points earned out of total possible points.
 Summative assessments (unit exams and quizzes) will be given at the end of each unit. These
assessments may take the form of multiple choice, short answer, and open response types of questions.
These exams will typically be worth 50 points or 100 points (depending on the length of the unit and/or
the content covered). Summative assessments will make up approximately 80% of the total possible
points for a given unit.
 Other grades will consist of in-class assignments, lab activities, mini-projects, quizzes, and more. Note:
The points for these tasks will be approximately 20% of the total possible points for a given unit.
 Homework will be assigned as a tool to practice learning targets covered in class and will be checked at
the beginning of class daily for effort and completion.
o Homework will be graded as follows:
 2 points will be recorded for a complete assignment with thorough work shown
 1 point will be recorded for a partially complete assignment with some work shown
 0 points will be recorded for an incomplete assignment with minimal to zero work shown
o These homework grades will be kept up-to-date in Infinite Campus, but will not count towards
your overall points earned. Homework can, however, have a significant impact on your grade.
If you receive 80% of the possible homework points for a given unit, then you will have two
options:
 You will be allowed to retake the unit exam in ESS (within a 2 week time frame).
 OR you will be awarded 3 bonus points on a 50 point test or 5 bonus points on a 100
point test.
 If you choose to retake the test, it must be done within 2 weeks from the date that the
original test was taken. If the retake test score is less than the original test plus the bonus,
then that score will be recorded.
o LATE homework will NOT be accepted. In the event that a student is absent, it is the student’s
responsibility to do the homework that was assigned and show it to the instructor within two
days of their return to school. In the case of an extended absence, see the instructor to make
alternate arrangements.
 The overall grading scale will be as follows:
90 – 100 A
80 – 89 B
70 – 79 C
60 – 69 D
MaterialsNeeded:
 Algebra I textbook &
workbook
 A calculator (preferably a TI84 or TI-30)
 Folder or binder
 Notebook paper
 Graph paper
 Pencils
 Colored Pencils/Glue Sticks
(optional)
Below 60
F