Algebra 1 Overview
This algebra 1 course combines 8th grade material and algebra 1 material so you are essentially learning 2 years of math in 1 year. The 8th grade material is necessary to build a foundation for success with algebra 1 skills.
Algebra 1 topics are explored deeply and often require proof and critical reasoning. To “make an A” you must be able to discuss topics and make connections between them, reason mathematically, generate new mathematical ideas through discovery, and transfer mathematical understanding to solve new problems. A surface level understanding or simply “right answers” will not be sufficient for an A. The over-arching objective, therefore, is for you to use your mathematical intuition to become a clever thinker and problem-solver who can communicate CORRECTLY in the language of mathematics. We are building the foundation needed to be successful in pre-ap and AP high school mathematics classes.
The Algebra 1 course will consist of the following units:
Unit 1: Rules of Exponents and Solving Multi-Step Equations
Unit 2: Data Displays
Unit 3: Linear Functions and Inequalities
Unit 4: Linear Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Unit 5: Rational, Irrational Numbers and the Pythagorean Theorem
Unit 6: Volume of 3-D shapes
Unit 7: Quadratic Functions
Unit 8: Exponential Functions
Transformational geometry was learned in 7th grade accelerated classes. It is an expectation that you know this material. We will be having closed patriot plus sessions to review the material.
Algebra 1 topics are explored deeply and often require proof and critical reasoning. To “make an A” you must be able to discuss topics and make connections between them, reason mathematically, generate new mathematical ideas through discovery, and transfer mathematical understanding to solve new problems. A surface level understanding or simply “right answers” will not be sufficient for an A. The over-arching objective, therefore, is for you to use your mathematical intuition to become a clever thinker and problem-solver who can communicate CORRECTLY in the language of mathematics. We are building the foundation needed to be successful in pre-ap and AP high school mathematics classes.
The Algebra 1 course will consist of the following units:
Unit 1: Rules of Exponents and Solving Multi-Step Equations
Unit 2: Data Displays
Unit 3: Linear Functions and Inequalities
Unit 4: Linear Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Unit 5: Rational, Irrational Numbers and the Pythagorean Theorem
Unit 6: Volume of 3-D shapes
Unit 7: Quadratic Functions
Unit 8: Exponential Functions
Transformational geometry was learned in 7th grade accelerated classes. It is an expectation that you know this material. We will be having closed patriot plus sessions to review the material.
How you will be graded:
Your grade in this course is a reflection of your conceptual understanding of the mathematical topics which we have covered. Your grade is based mostly on your performance on assessments (Quizzes and Tests). These are where you show me what YOU have learned. Assessments will count for 80% of you grade.
Unit tests may be corrected during the stated time frame (usually within two days of receiving the grade) for half points earned back. (For example, if a student originally scores a 70% - they missed 30% - they may correct the test with the teacher and earn 15% back, thus earning a final score of 85% on the test.
After each homework assignment, a quick homework check will be given and your homework will be stapled to it. These will count for 20% of you grade.
Unit tests may be corrected during the stated time frame (usually within two days of receiving the grade) for half points earned back. (For example, if a student originally scores a 70% - they missed 30% - they may correct the test with the teacher and earn 15% back, thus earning a final score of 85% on the test.
After each homework assignment, a quick homework check will be given and your homework will be stapled to it. These will count for 20% of you grade.
- If you feel like the course is moving too fast for you to get a solid understanding, it is OKAY to switch to math 8. Doing this is not to be seen as a failure, it is a recognition that you want a more solid understanding of mathematics. Math 8 is still challenging as many of the topics that were taught in Algebra 1 four years ago are now taught in math 8. This choice needs to be made by the end of the first quarter so that you are not “behind” in math 8. The absolute final deadline to make this choice is November 22nd. However, waiting until this date will make your transition to math 8 more difficult.
- If you need help, Mr. Washburn is available in the mornings (7:30-7:50) and Ms. Millett is available after school (3:15-3:45). You may see either one of us to ask questions.