2007 - 2008 Syllabus

 

Instructor	Mr. Don Simmons
E-Mail	smsalgebra@gmail.com
Phone	281-634-6310
Textbook	Algebra 1 McDougal Littell

Course Content

Tools of Algebra	Quadratic functions and equations
Functions and their graphs	Exponents and exponential functions
Algebraic concepts and simple equations	Rational expressions and functions
Equations and inequalities	Systems of equations and inequalities
Writing and graphing linear functions	Right triangles and radical expressions

 

Class Assignments

Text Notes
 Algebra is interactive. Learning does not occur from simply reading a lesson. Students are expected to take notes in their class notes spiral for both class and each textbook lesson. Class notes may expand upon or extend past textbook material or cover information or techniques not found in the text. Students are responsible for knowing both all the material from the assigned text lessons and the material covered in the classroom.

Daily Practice
Practice assignments will be given on a daily basis. Practice is to be completed in pencil in the practice spiral with the solution process shown for each problem. Students should always be prepared for discussion of the previous evening’s practice. There is also the possibility of a quiz over the assignment at any time. 

Quizzes & Tests
There will be at least four quizzes every grading cycle. Announced quizzes will normally be scheduled for Thursdays. Unannounced quizzes can occur at any time. Quizzes are class work grades. There will be three tests during a grading cycle, and, like quizzes, will be scheduled for Thursdays. Students will be given several days notice of an impending test. Tests are major grades. 

Warm-Ups
There will be daily classroom Warm-Ups. At the beginning of the year we will focus on brain teasers to help students develop some creative thinking skills. We will then move to word problems where our algebra skills will be honed.

Friday Problems
Problem solving, using higher order thinking skills, is integral to this course. A new problem will be issued each week and due on Friday. These problems will require both critical thinking and good communications skills. Late problem submissions will NOT be accepted.

Daily Classroom Expectations
Students are expected to be in their seats and prepared for class with all tools and supplies at the time the bell rings. At this time all assignments are available, all pencils have been sharpened, and all other housekeeping chores have been completed.

Daily Classroom Supplies
Each student is expected to have the following:

Spiral Notebooks for class notes and practice
Algebra Workbook
2 Pencils (or a mechanical pencil with extra lead) and a good eraser
Ruler (6” is okay)
Red checking pen

If other supplies are required, they will be posted outside the classroom door.

Calculators
Students will be introduced to the TI-83+ graphing calculator and will use it extensively throughout the course. Each student will need a graphing calculator at home to complete daily practice assignments. We have a complete set of calculators for students to use during class so there is no need for students to bring their calculators to school.

Grading
We will follow the standard 8^th grade policy for grading and late work (see the SMS Handbook) with the following adjustments:

• Papers with no names or illegible names will receive the same penalty as work that is one day late.
• Work done in other than pencil (unless specifically instructed) will not be accepted.
• Late Friday Problems will  lose a minimum of 30 points.

Tutorials
Tutorials will be offered most mornings. A tutorial is a session to help students having difficulty with specific skills or concepts. For tutorials to be useful, students need to come prepared with specific questions.

 

The eighth grade Algebra I course is a fast-paced, high school credit course. The grades earned will be on the student’s high school transcript. This course cannot be repeated unless a failing grade is earned. Algebra I is the foundation for all other high school math courses. It is imperative that the student’s basic skills are already in place, TEKS objectives have been mastered, and the student is motivated to keep up with the content. If you have any concerns or further questions, please contact Mr. Simmons or the counselors’ office.