Course Title: Algebra 1

Teacher: Mrs. Sue Lauer

Phone number: 729-2400, ext 1250

E-mail address:

Course Description / This course is designed to give students a foundation for advanced mathematics. Areas of study include linear, quadratic and exponential functions, linear inequalities, systems of equations, and radicals. An emphasis is placed on applying and using problem solving skills to master the material.
Behavioral Expectations / Each student is expected to:
Be respectful ~ Do not talk when others are talking, stay seated until the bell rings unless permission is granted, stay alert, and use appropriate language.
Be prepared ~ Bring all materials and assignments to class and be prepared to begin on time.
Be willing to participate ~ Ask questions and take part in all individual, whole-class and cooperative learning activities.
Abide by all school policies ~ Expect appropriate consequences for 3 or more tardies, class disruptions, and excessive absences.
Grading Scale / A: 90-100
B: 80-89
C: 70-79
D: 60-69
F: 59 and below
The upper and lower 2.5% of each grade scale will be indicated with a “+” or “-“ respectively. Standard rounding will be used. Grades will be posted on the SIS portal.
Grade Calculations / Quarter: Homework: 25% Tests and Quizzes: 75%
1st Semester: 1st Quarter: 45% 2nd Quarter: 45% Exam: 10%
2nd Semester: 3rd Quarter: 42% 4th Quarter: 42% Exam/EOC: 16%
Homework / Homework is graded on completion with 3 points possible:
3 - all work shown and all problems attempted
2 - more than half finished with work shown
1 - less than half finished with work shown
0 - no homework or no work shown
Late Work / Each student will have the opportunity to make up one late homework assignment per quarter. However, failure to turn in the assignment on the following day from which it is due will result in no credit for the assignment. This opportunity may only be used on daily homework assignments, and not on tests, quizzes, projects, etc.
Materials / Students are responsible for bringing their pencil and binder (1 ½ - 2 inch) or notebook to class each day. We are recommending that all Algebra 1 students purchase a graphing calculator. Recommended models are TI-84 Plus Silver or TI-84 Plus C Silver (color). Any TI-83 or 84 calculator is acceptable. We do not recommend any Casio calculators, TI-89’s, or TI-Inspire’s.
Your textbook is available online, along with instructional videos, quizzes and homework support.
Class Calendar / You will be informed of assessments and projects several days or weeks in advance. Homework will be assigned most class periods. Quizzes are given every two to three sections, and a test is administered following the completion of every chapter. Tests are worth 100 points. Refer to the Google class calendar for all assignments.
Absences / If you have a planned absence or field trip scheduled, you should ask for your homework or schedule to take your assessments in advance. No additional time will be given for make up work. For unplanned absences, a missed quiz or test will need to made up within 3 days of your return to school..
Resources / I will be available after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 3:15 for any additional help. There are also two math tutors in each Learning Lab and department tutors available on Mondays and Thursdays at MATH LAB in room 151 until 3:45.
It is to your advantage to seek help with a topic as soon as difficulties arise!
Homework assignments will be posted to the SIS homework portal each day.
Goals / My objectives for this course are that each student develops:
Ø  Competency and confidence in mathematics
Ø  Strong analytical problem solving skills
Ø  Self-esteem and autonomy