Saugus High School

Algebra B

Spring 2008

 

     Algebra B is a course in mathematics that will develop basic algebraic skills and concepts.  This course will cover chapters 7, 8, 9, and 6 in this given order in the Algebra 1 textbook.  The following information has been prepared to communicate the expectations, course content, requirements, policies, and other information that will provide an optimal learning experience and environment for each student.  Students will demonstrate that they are academically competent learners by showing success in applying mathematical concepts and improving logical thinking.  Students are required to earn a grade of C- or better for advancement to the next level of mathematics.  Completion of Algebra is a requirement for graduation from Saugus High School. 

Textbook:  Algebra 1(Prentice Hall).  The textbook covers algebraic content areas mandated by California State Standards.  Students will demonstrate that they are effective communicators who employ reading and writing as a basic communication tool in mathematics.  Students are responsible for caring for their own textbooks.  Lost or damaged books must be replaced or paid for by the responsible student.  Students will study these topics this semester in the following order. 

Course Description:

Chapter 7–

Graphs and Linear Equations

Chapter 8 –

Systems of Equations

Chapter 9 –

Inequalities and Absolute Value

Chapter 6 –

Polynomials and Factoring

 Note: Calculators are allowed for certain sections at the discretion of the teacher 

Attendance:  The school attendance and tardy policies will be strictly enforced.  Students will strive to be productive individuals who are responsible for completing any missed assignments, including homework, warm-ups, quizzes and tests.  Previously assigned homework is due on the day of return.  Missed homework due to absences is to be submitted within two days of return.  A student who misses a test because of an excused, verifiable absence will be required to take the make-up test on the day he/she returns to school.  If for some reason the test is not made up within one week, the student will receive a zero on the test.  Unexcused (truant) absences receive a zero on all work for any and all days affected. 

Assignments: 

1.       Homework will generally be assigned every day (including weekends and holidays) and is due the following school day.  Students must show their work and box their answers where appropriate, in order to receive full credit.

2.       Homework assignments are posted daily in class and on my web page.

3.       Warm-ups encompass a daily set of problems that are to be completed within the first 5-10 minutes of class.  Warm-ups may be included in the grading criteria.

4.       Tests will be announced in advance; however quizzes may or may not be. 

Supplies:  Students will need a notebook binder with loose-leaf lined paper that will accommodate and maintain all warm-ups, note taking, homework, handouts, quizzes and any other assigned class-work.  This binder will be a comprehensive record of all the math work accomplished during the entire course.  Additionally, students will need pencils for all math work.  Tests and quizzes accepted only in pencil. 

Cheating:  Cheating is not limited to examination situations alone, but arises whenever students attempt to gain an unearned academic advantage.  Cheating will not be tolerated and will result in strict disciplinary action including a grade of zero on the material involved and possible detention, referral to an administrator, suspension, and parent conference.  Some examples (not all inclusive) of a violation of academic integrity are: talking during an exam, unauthorized notes, notes programmed into calculators or other electronic devices, “wandering eyes,” etc. 

Grading Scale:

93-100%

A

80.0-82%

B-

67-69.9%

D+

 

 

90.0-92%

A-

77-79.9%

C+

63-66%

D

 

 

87-89.9%

B+

73-76%

C

60.0-62%

D-

 

 

83-86%

B

70.0-72%

C-

0-59.9%

F

 

 

 Grades will be computed on a weighted average as follows:  Homework, warm-ups, and class-work count for 20% of your grade.  Tests and quizzes count for 60% of your grade.  The final exam will count for 20% of your grade.  Grades will be posted in a timely fashion to alleviate any surprises.  A student must have a 70% or higher to move on to the next level of math. 

Classroom rules:

1.       Be prepared daily with pencils, notebook, textbook, and homework; be seated and quietly working on the warm-up when the bell rings.  Backpacks removed from desk tops.

2.       No food or drinks in class except for water.  No hats, hoods, or bennies worn in class.

3.       No electronic devices visible (i.e., cell phones, ipods, calculators, etc.) and all cell phones turned off.  Electronic violation slips will be assigned for any electronic device infractions.

4.       No talking when the teacher is talking. Raise your hand to ask or answer a question and for permission to leave your desk.

5.       Respect yourself, other classmates, school personnel and school property.  Students will demonstrate that they are culturally aware individuals and involved citizens who respect the rights of others as well as individual differences and perspectives. 

Office hours:  Students will demonstrate that they are perceptive individuals who will access available resources when needed.   I am available after school from 3:10-4:00 PM Monday through Thursday in room J-1008 or by appointment.  I am here to help you learn math.  Please ask for help as soon as you need it. 

Contact Information:  If you have any questions about this class or your son/daughter’s progress, please contact me via email (preferred) or phone. 

Please sign and return the attached enclosure.  Thank you. 

                                                            Mr. McDermott

                                                            Math Teacher
 

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