Syllabus Information

Textbook:  Algebra 1 Michigan Edition  (C) 2008  
                    McDougal Littell Publishing,
                    By Larson, Boswell, Kanold, & Stiff
                    ISBN:  9780618888030 or 0618888039

Online Textbook Resouces (activation code: 2393872-230):  http://www.classzone.com/cz/books/algebra_1_2007_na/book_home.htm?state=MI

Course Description:

• The purpose of Algebra 1B is to continue the study of Algebra 1.  This course is the second of two courses (Algebra 1A and Algebra 1B) that cover the Algebra 1 curriculum at a reduced pace over the span of two school years.
• Students can expect 20-30 minutes of homework each night from this course.
• Students in Algebra 1B will simplify and evaluate numerical and variable expressions, solve linear, quadratic, polynomial, square root, and rational equations and inequalities algebraically and graphically, develop and apply problem-solving skills for algebraic and worded math problems, determine function types, create tables, graphs, and equations of functions, appropriately use a graphing calculator to investigate algebra, prepare students for future math courses, and encourage cooperation, good daily work, and study skills. 
• Successful completion of this course will leave students prepared for the study of Geometry and Algebra 2.

 Required Materials:

• Pencils
• Blue/Red Pens
• 3-Ring Binder for only Algebra 1B
• 4 Binder Divider Tabs
• Lined Filler Paper
• Graphing Calculator

Recommended Graphing Calculator:  
TI-84 Plus Silver Edition

Classroom Expectations:

• Responsibility
  
  • Being in control of your own behavior
  • Having your work finished on time
• Consideration
  
  • Treating others the way that you want ot be treated
  • Showing kindness and respect
• Honesty
  
  • Being truthful to others and yourself
  • Doing what is right regardless of who is around

Tardy/Absent students: Students are considered tardy if they are not in the classroom when the bell rings.  Students who have been absent should check my webpage, ask a classmate, or immediately check with me at the beginning of class to receive the materials that were missed.  It is the student's responsibility to collect and turn in his/her missing work and get notes from a classmate.  Students have as many days as they were absent to make up any work that was missed.  Tests, homework, or assignments missed, because of unexcused absences or suspension, may not be made up. (These are school wide policies.)

Daily Expectations:  I expect that students bring their book, three-ring binder, homework, paper, pencil, pen, calculator or other necessary materials to class daily. I also expect students to be in their seat when the bell rings.  Students are not allowed to get up from their seat or talk with out permission.  Sleeping in class will also not be tolerated.  Any behavior that interferes negatively with the educational environment is unacceptable.  Persistent action of any of the previous behaviors will result in phone calls and/or e-mails to guardians before further action, such as detention, is taken.  Cheating will NOT be tolerated in my classroom and will be dealt with according to the student handbook. My expectations, and the rules outlined in the Student Code of Conduct Manual will be strictly enforced in my classroom.

Passes:  Each student will be given two passes per quarter. Other than these two passes, passes will NOT be given out during my class; going to the bathroom, drinking fountain, locker, office, etc... should be taken care of in the five minutes between classes, lunch, or at the beginning or end of the school day.  Extra credit will be given for unused passes at the end of each quarter!

Extra Help: If a student is struggling with a topic or concept, I expect the student to ask questions in class or ask for extra help if he/she feels it is necessary.  I am very willing to stay after or come in early to help a student.  It is the student's responsibility to ask and show up.  I will make myself available as much as possible to help students.