Syllabus			Xavier College Preparatory Department of Mathematics
	Mrs. Mazzola's Algebra 1 Course Syllabus
	Algebra 1 Page	Syllabus	Lesson Plans		Rules & Procedures

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course explains in depth the concepts necessary for the operations of Algebra1. This includes basic operations of the real number system, polynomials, graphing of linear equations, equalities and inequalities. Throughout this course problem solving and real life applications are continually stressed.

COURSE GOALS:

1. To lead each student to an understanding of the most important concepts of Algebra; giving a firm foundation for further study of mathematics.
2. Mathematics is not a course one can learn by simply observing the teacher. Each student must willingly invest the time and effort needed to understand the material and do many assigned exercises for skill development.
3. To respect the right of each person, to listen, to practice, and to learn without distraction.
4. To instill personal responsibility for ones own conduct and performance .

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Add, subtract, multiply and divide signed numbers.
• Solve inequalities and graph inequalities on the number line.
• Proceed through the four basic operations with monomials and polynomials.
• Factor polynomial expressions by using GCF, trinomial patterns, difference of square pattern and discriminant.
• Graph equations of lines by using slope and intercepts.
• Solve systems of equations by using graphs, substitution and linear combinations.
• Simplify irrational numbers.
• Solve quadratic equations by using the quadratic formula.
• Simplify algebraic fractions.
• Apply the five step method involved in problem solving.
• Interpret data from real-life models.

DAILY REQUIREMENTS:

Students are expected to bring the following items to class everyday :

1. Textbook: Algebra 1 – Foester, Addison Wesley, 1999.
2. Folder with pockets.
3. Composition Book – 8x10 inch, bound, graph paper.
4. Loose Leaf paper (college or wide ruled).
5. Pencils and Erasers.
6. Index Cards.
7. TI – 30 (or comparable) calculator or TI-83 graphing calculator.
8. 1 Red Pen

QUARTER GRADING:

Each quarter grade is a composite of Tests, Homework Assignments, and Quizzes.

• Each test is worth 50 points maximum
• There is one test per chapter
• Tests may be retaken once. A 80% is the highest grade that may be earned on a retake. All retakes must be completed within one week of the original test.

• 2 points each.
• Homework will be assigned daily and discussed the following day.
• NO credit is given for late or incomplete homework (besides excused absences).
• A list of answers is not acceptable to turn in.
• ALL problems, work, and answers are due.
• All work is to be neat and shown in pencil.

Quizzes:

• 5 or 10 points.
• Given after every 3 sections of each chapter. May be "pop" or announced.

SEMESTER GRADING:

Semester grades are determined from:

1^st Quarter grade X 45% + 2^nd Quarter grade X 45% + Final Exam grade X 10%

= Total percentage grade of the semester grade.

ATTENDANCE:

Students are expected to comply with Xavier attendance and behavior policies.

MAKE-UP WORK:

It is the duty of THE STUDENT to make up material missed within three (3) days. (absent on Mon. = by that Friday.). Failure to comply will result in a zero.

8th HOUR:

I am available during 8^th period for any questions/concerns. Otherwise, I will assume that you are up-to-date with your points total/grade and understand what we are learning.

NOTE TO PARENT:

Thank you for taking an interest in your child’s learning by reviewing this letter yourself and with your child. I look forward to sharing this year with your child and challenging them to excel.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Angela Mazzola

Student signature _______________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian signature _________________________________________________