Extended Algebra B Syllabus - Mrs. Siefken
Hours available: 7:45 – 8:15 am (Except Thursdays for teacher meetings)
3rd period (by appointment)
3:40 – 4:30 pm
Website: stmarysmath.weebly.com
Email: [email protected]
Materials Needed:
pencils red pens loose-leaf paper graph paper
3-ring binder scientific calculator (TI 30XS recommended)
Course Description:
Throughout the school year we will be exploring many topics of algebra. Below is a quick list of the questions that will be answered as we cover each unit.
Hours available: 7:45 – 8:15 am (Except Thursdays for teacher meetings)
3rd period (by appointment)
3:40 – 4:30 pm
Website: stmarysmath.weebly.com
Email: [email protected]
Materials Needed:
pencils red pens loose-leaf paper graph paper
3-ring binder scientific calculator (TI 30XS recommended)
Course Description:
Throughout the school year we will be exploring many topics of algebra. Below is a quick list of the questions that will be answered as we cover each unit.
· What is unique about linear equations?
· How does the rate of change relate to the slope of a line? · What are the different forms of linear equations and how are they used? · What does the graph of an absolute value equation look like? · What does the solution to a system of equations look like, and what methods can be used to solve them? · What do the different forms of exponents mean, and how are they used in scientific notation? |
· How can the properties of exponents simplify an equation in order to solve it, and how are they used in real life?
· What are the different forms of polynomials and how can they be simplified? · What are the steps to factoring polynomials in order to then solve quadratic equations? · What are the different forms of radical expressions and how can they be simplified? · How can the distance and midpoint between two points be found using radical expressions? |
As you can see, many of these units involve memorizing particular rules or forms of algebra. The students will be presented with different situations, diagrams, and a set of tools to use. As they master each fundamental concept they will be asked to progress to higher levels of understanding. Therefore, review will be needed along the way to ensure that concepts are not lost as they move to new units.
Grading Process
I grade this class on three categories: Tests, Quizzes, and Homework. My philosophy is that math is a practiced skill much like a sport. The daily homework is just like a practice. It covers main concepts and reviews previous sections as well as provides some challenge problems to stretch the mind. I do not however expect everyone to be perfect the first time they learn a new concept, so daily work is typically graded on effort. I should be able to see that logical attempts were made on every problem with work shown. Randomly I may give pop quizzes over homework problems, and that would replace a daily homework score.
The quizzes and tests, however, are more like performing in the actual ballgame. That is where I can tell if each of the students has understood the concepts and can apply them. I am very specific and detailed when I grade those. Therefore the scale below is how each category is weighted.
Homework = 25% Quizzes = 30% Tests 45%
Semester Grades:
Semester grades will be determined as follows:
1st Quarter Grade: 40% 3rd Quarter Grade: 40%
2nd Quarter Grade: 40% 4th Quarter Grade: 40%
1st Semester Final: 20% 2nd Semester Final: 20%
1st Semester Grade 2nd Semester Grade
Classroom Expectations
In order to make it the best environment for learning we need to maintain three important principles every day; Readiness, Responsibility and Respect.
First we must be Ready for class. Students will be in attendance daily. Regular attendance is vital to the success of all students. Students will also be in their seat before the bell rings and have all of their supplies with them. Such as, book, pencil, pen, paper, graph paper and geometry tools if necessary. Book bags will not be allowed in the classroom, as they cause a distraction.
Second we must be Responsible for ourselves. That would mean that any assignment given previously should be completed on time, labeled correctly and handed-in. If a student has missed some class for illness or other reasons they will be required to hand-in the late work when they return to class. Students will be given 2 days extra to make-up any assignments that they missed due to an unexpected absence. A student may make an appointment with me to go over the concepts outside of class time.
Finally, we must have Respect for everyone. Algebra has many difficult concepts to cover and each student needs the best environment to be able to learn. Any behavior that disrupts that learning will not be tolerated.
Grading Process
I grade this class on three categories: Tests, Quizzes, and Homework. My philosophy is that math is a practiced skill much like a sport. The daily homework is just like a practice. It covers main concepts and reviews previous sections as well as provides some challenge problems to stretch the mind. I do not however expect everyone to be perfect the first time they learn a new concept, so daily work is typically graded on effort. I should be able to see that logical attempts were made on every problem with work shown. Randomly I may give pop quizzes over homework problems, and that would replace a daily homework score.
The quizzes and tests, however, are more like performing in the actual ballgame. That is where I can tell if each of the students has understood the concepts and can apply them. I am very specific and detailed when I grade those. Therefore the scale below is how each category is weighted.
Homework = 25% Quizzes = 30% Tests 45%
Semester Grades:
Semester grades will be determined as follows:
1st Quarter Grade: 40% 3rd Quarter Grade: 40%
2nd Quarter Grade: 40% 4th Quarter Grade: 40%
1st Semester Final: 20% 2nd Semester Final: 20%
1st Semester Grade 2nd Semester Grade
Classroom Expectations
In order to make it the best environment for learning we need to maintain three important principles every day; Readiness, Responsibility and Respect.
First we must be Ready for class. Students will be in attendance daily. Regular attendance is vital to the success of all students. Students will also be in their seat before the bell rings and have all of their supplies with them. Such as, book, pencil, pen, paper, graph paper and geometry tools if necessary. Book bags will not be allowed in the classroom, as they cause a distraction.
Second we must be Responsible for ourselves. That would mean that any assignment given previously should be completed on time, labeled correctly and handed-in. If a student has missed some class for illness or other reasons they will be required to hand-in the late work when they return to class. Students will be given 2 days extra to make-up any assignments that they missed due to an unexpected absence. A student may make an appointment with me to go over the concepts outside of class time.
Finally, we must have Respect for everyone. Algebra has many difficult concepts to cover and each student needs the best environment to be able to learn. Any behavior that disrupts that learning will not be tolerated.