Welcome to Algebra 1

Algebra I gives the student a strong foundation for their higher level math courses. Algebra I not only gives students the proper mathematical skills that they need to go on in math, but also the much needed critical thinking skills that are essential to succeed in school.
 
Textbook: Algebra – Tools for a Changing World – Prentice Hall
 
Topics Covered
Semester I
Solving Equations
Solving Proportions
Solving Percent Equations
Solving Inequalities
Identifying Functions
Graphing Functions
Graphing Linear Equations
Writing Linear Functions
Analyzing Scatterplots
Graphing Linear Inequalities
Solving Systems of Equations

Semester II
Solving and Writing Systems of Equations
Geometric Applications
Properties of Exponents
Square Roots
Pythagorean Theorem
Polynomial Operations
Factoring Polynomials
Graphing and Solving Quadratic Equations
Probability and Statistics
Exponential Functions
Simplifying Radicals
 
Supplies
Textbook (covered)
Workbook 1 box of tissue paper
3-ring binder (or folder w/ brads) w/ paper
Pencils & erasers
 
*Additional item: Students are encouraged to use a graphing calculator (TI-83+ or TI-84)
*Not required, although must bring 4 AAA batteries for use of class calculator
 
Ways to be successful in class
Be on time to class (in your seat before the bell rings)
Be prepared with assignments and materials
Be respectful to the teacher and other classmates (this includes property)
Be organized with assignments and your notebook
Follow school rules as specified in the handbook
 
Homework/Quizzes
All assignments should be completed before the beginning of class the following
day. Some assignments will be graded based on completion while others may be graded based on accuracy. Late work will not be accepted!
 
Quizzes will usually be announced in advance, except for the occasional pop quiz, and will be given regularly throughout the
week. Depending on the number of quizzes given, the lowest quiz grade may be
dropped.
 
Homework and Quizzes make up the daily average of your nine weeks grade, which counts 50%. They are both vital to your success in this class!
 

 
Tests
Tests will be announced well in advance and will usually be given every other week. The test average is the other 50% of your nine weeks grade.
 
Make-ups
Homework should be made up immediately upon returning to class. Tests and quizzes will be made up within the same number of days as the student was gone. It is also the responsibility of the student to check with the teacher concerning assignments that were given when the student was absent.
 
Grading
The daily grade average (homework, daily assignments, and quizzes) and the major grade average (tests
and perhaps projects) will each count 50% of the nine weeks grade. There will be a minimum of 6 daily
grades and 3 majors per nine weeks. Final semester averages will be determined by the following:
9 week grade
+ 9 week grade
(total of grades) x 2 = _______
+ _______ (Final exam grade)
_______ 5 = _______ (Final semester average)
It is the student’s responsibility to keep track of grades. There should be no surprises! The CHS agenda is
an excellent place to record your progress.