Sophomore Algebra (ESL)
Mr. Michael Sieg
msieg@maine207.org
Phone: 847-692-4484 Ext. 8675
Course Description:
Sophomore Algebra is the second course in a two year sequence designed for students who need a
slower and more detailed treatment of the concepts of Pre-Algebra and Algebra. Topics covered in
this course include: functions, graphs, and solutions of various types of equations, with a special
emphasis placed on problem solving.
Supplies Needed:
Students are expected to have the following supplies in class EVERYDAY!
*
Textbook: Algebra I Concepts and Skills by McDougal Littell
*
Spiral Notebook for Note-taking (Spiral notebook for taking notes)
*
Pencil and/or Pen
*
Scientific Calculator
*
Notebook paper with Carbon Paper OR Science Lab Notebook (for completing assignments)
Grading Procedures:
Each student will earn a grade based on tests, quizzes, and assignments based on total cumulative
points. Test and quiz grades will comprise the bulk of each student's points for their quarter grade,
while homework assignments comprise the remainder of the student’s quarter grade. The quarter
grade is based on the student’s percentage of total points earned.
Daily assignments will be checked for completeness, neatness, effort, and accuracy. A complete list
of the previous nights’ correct answers will provided each day. It is the responsibility of each student
to check his/her homework for correctness and accuracy on their individual homework copy.
Tests are usually scheduled for Thursday, and cover only the preceding chapter.
Tests and quizzes will be graded thoroughly. Accuracy and a student's best effort are expected to
receive top scores on tests. There will be times when certain algebraic procedures are expected to be
used. Students will be graded on their performance in using the correct procedures, not just whether
their final answer is correct.
The ratio of homework to tests and quizzes will be 10% for homework and 90% for tests and quizzes
for each quarter in the semester.
There will be test and quiz retakes allowed in this class. Before students are allowed to retake any test
or quiz, the student must meet with either the teacher or math resource room teacher or coach tutor for
a total three sessions. When the student has completed these help sessions, a retake of the test or quiz
will be scheduled.
At the end of the semester, a comprehensive Final Exam will be given. The final semester grade will
combine each student's two quarter grades and Final Exam score. The Final Exam score will be
weighted no more than 20% of each student's final semester grade. A letter grade will be assigned
using the following scale:
Semester Grade Computation = 40%Quarter + 40%Quarter + 20%Semester Final.
5
For students performing at 90% and above………..A
80% through 89%…….B
70% through 79%…….C
60% through 69…..…...D
59.99% and lower…..…F (NOTE: Final grades will not be rounded up)
Grades on the parent portal will be updated once a week, after the completion of the grading of
each chapter examination.
* students earning a grade of F will be "LOOPED" at the semester
Sophomore Algebra is included in the "looping" program at Maine East, and so students should
be performing at a "D" level or above.
At the end of the 1st semester, any student who has not earned a grade of "D" or
better will repeat the semester’s work and must attend summer school in order to
complete the course.
Here is where to get help…
COACH offers student tutors during the school day and before / after school in room 234.
The MRC (Math
th
Resource Center) offers teacher tutors during the school day in room 220F (1st through
9 Period)
Mr. Sieg is available before school from 6:15 to 7:45 A.M in Room 321. Please make arrangements if you
wish to meet with me after school because of additional educational responsibilities.
Additional Information:
Excused absences, fieldtrips, and illness that require make up work will be evaluated as if the required
work was turned in on time.
Academic dishonesty – “Students are expected to complete all tests and assignments honestly and will not
collaborate in dishonest actions. Students will not give or accept answers or assignments unless directed to
by the teacher. Students caught cheating or plagiarizing will be subject to discipline as stated in the
Student Handbook, p. 37.”
Please feel free to contact Mr. Sieg directly via email or telephone with any questions.