Algebra I
Course 3130 Syllabus 2015-2016
Instructor: John Jewell
Phone: 540-853-2255 ext 7105
Prerequisites: Math 8
Text: Algebra 1, Glenco
Email: jjewell@rcps.info
Office: 2-105 Classroom
Credits: 1 High School
Course Description
Algebra provides a systematic way to represent mathematical relationships and analyze change. Algebra I is a
beginning math course taught to the high school level. Algebra 1 studies: Algebraic language, the real number
system, linear and quadratic equations, linear inequalities, coordinate plane graphing, slope, polynomials, statistics,
factoring, systems of equations, statistics, rational and irrational expressions and operations. The course will use
graphing calculators extensively. The course is required for graduation and will have an end of course SOL test in
May with specific SOL objectives. Students need to understand the concepts and symbols of algebra, the
structures that govern the manipulation of the symbols, and how the symbols can be used to record ideas and
events.
Link to SOL Objectives: Virginia Department of Education
Link to sample SOL test: 2010 Algebra I SOL Test
Link to online Algebra 1 textbook and resources: Algebra 1 Glencoe
The course will include a mixture of lecture and notes, in-class and take-home assignments, cooperative group
activities, math experiments and labs, computer activities, projects, writing assignments and presentations. This is
a state required preparatory course and will be taught at a rigorous level; requiring a high level of commitment on
your part to be successful. It will not always be fun; but we will persevere together to make it interesting.
Math Course Objectives
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Master the techniques of basic math concepts and algebra
Determine equations to model real life applications
Communicate mathematics clearly and effectively
Use technology to solve and model mathematical problems
Use critical thinking skills to problem solve
Develop an appreciation for mathematical concepts and make connections
Evaluation
Grading Scale
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A 90-100
B 80-89
C 70-79
D 60-69
F 59-0
X 59 (Failure due
to Attendance)
Students will be assessed using the following: homework, quizzes, tests, focus and
exit activities, computer activities, class work and participation, and semester exams. Grades will be calculated
using total points within each category. Nine-week averages will be determined using the following percentages for
each category during the term.
Homework: 10%
Classwork: 20%
Quizzes: 30%
Tests: 40%
Semester grades will be calculated as follows: 1st 9wks – 40%, 2nd 9wks –40%, and semester exam – 20%.
Assignments not made up will count as a zero for that assignment.
Materials Needed Daily
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Paper
Pencil
Student Assistance
I am available before and after school by appointment. It is the student’s responsibility to seek additional help. It
is important that the student communicates with the teacher any problems, concerns, difficulties with subject
matter etc. immediately in order to best remedy situations. Parents can communicate by email, phone or personal
conferences as needed.
Grades will be updated weekly as the 9 weeks progress and students and parents both are encouraged to develop
passwords through the parental portal to monitor grades. Additional resources are available on the class website
but it will be the student’s responsibility to access items as needed.
It is the responsibility of the student to meet with the teacher to get any assignments, notes, etc. missed due to
an absent.
Failed assessments are available for a retake for half credit earned on missed problems, but student MUST
schedule a tutoring session with me prior to allowed re-take.
Rules for Success
Daily attendance is a must!
Take helpful notes!
Be prepared!
Be respectful!
Be organized!
Make corrections on assignments and tests!
No electronics, food in class
Show teamwork when in groups
Ask pertinent questions in class
PRACTICE!! – complete the assignments!
Seek help!
Follow rules and procedures including tardies!!
Statement for Students with Disabilities
Any student with a documented disability will receive the accommodations in his/her IEP or 504 plan. If those accommodations
are not sufficient for academic progress, the teacher, student, or parent may contact the case manager to arrange for a
meeting to discuss additional options.
Statement on Academic Integrity
Patrick Henry seeks to maintain an optimal learning environment. General principles of academic honesty include respect for the
intellectual property of others, the expectation that individual work will be submitted unless otherwise allowed by an instructor,
and the obligations both to protect one’s own academic work from misuse by others as well as to avoid using another’s work as
one’s own. All students are expected to understand and abide by these principles. Students representing the work of another as
their own will receive a grade of “F” on that assignment. Students will sign a pledge on every assessment indicating that they
have neither given nor received help.
Note: I am looking forward to working with each of you to enhance your math skills. Please see me should there
be any questions, if in doubt – ask. I look forward to a productive and successful year for all.