Stuff To Know
A MESSAGE FOR MY STUDENTS
Welcome to Algebra, your first course in higher mathematics.
Algebra is a course where concepts are sequential and lessons build one on top of another. Since each daily lesson relates directly to what was discussed the previous day, regular practice is essential. Careless homework habits are a recipe for disaster.
Think of algebra as a contact sport. Like any other sport, you will only be successful in algebra if you practice. That is what algebra homework is - practice. We have homework almost every night, including weekends and off-days. You should plan on about 30 to 45 minutes of algebra practice daily. You can ask questions about the homework during the next day's class.
If you find yourself having trouble or taking too much time on the assignments, come see me for extra help. I have a regular morning tutorial day, and I can be available most other mornings as well. All you have to do is check with me the day before.
Do not fall behind! It is very difficult to "catch-up" in algebra; this is probably the first course you have ever taken where trying to make up lost ground is so demanding. And I do not give extra credit to help you bring up a low grade. Complete all your assignments and prepare for all your quizzes and tests. The grade you earn will be the grade you receive.
These comments are meant to prepare you, not scare you. Algebra is a high school course, and you are in this class because you have shown that you are capable of high school work now. Pay attention, ask questions, and practice, practice, practice. You will be successful. Have a great year!
EXPECTATIONS: YOURS AND MINE
What I expect of you
I expect you to come to class prepared with your spirals, pencils, black or blue pen, red pen, a positive attitude, and an open mind. You should be seated when the bell rings. You should always be prepared for a "quick quiz" over the previous lesson or assignment.
I expect you to ask questions when you don't fully understand a part of a lesson, and I expect your questions to be specific. Simply saying "I don't get it" is not acceptable.
If you miss a quiz or a test, it is your responsibility to arrange for make-up. The make-up version may or may not have the same questions as the original. All missed work is entered in the grade book as a zero until it is made up.
What you can expect of me
You can expect me to come to class each day ready to teach when the bell rings. You can expect me to have a positive attitude and bring an open mind to class. Everyone learns differently and I will make every attempt to accommodate all of your different learning styles. You can expect me to grade in a fair manner and to return assignments in a timely fashion. You can expect me to put in a solid effort each day to guide you in our exploration of mathematics.
CALCULATORS
Learning algebra is difficult without a calculator. In FBISD we have standardized on the Texas Instruments TI-83+ or TI-84+ graphing calculator for classroom use. At Sartartia we have a comlpete classroom set of graphing calculators for our algebra classes. Using any other calculator will make it difficult to complete home assignments and activities.
You should purchase either the TI-83+ or a TI-84+ to use at home. The TI-84+ is the newer model, but both calculators perform in an identical manner. Either model will be useful throughout high school. A graphing calculator typically sells for about $100. Often there are back-to-school sales, and you can buy your calculator for about $85. Because we have a class set, you will keep your calculator at home.