Algebra 1 Common Core

Course Syllabus

Teacher:​ Jessica Van Galen Contact: ​[email protected]

​ eriod 4/6
Class Info: P Google Classroom Code:​ 4rp63d
Room 230

Course Description:
Algebra 1 introduces students to variables, algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities,
functions, and all their multiple representations. In this class, students will develop the
ability to explore and solve real-world application problems, demonstrate the appropriate
use of graphing calculators, and communicate mathematical ideas clearly. This course lays
the foundation for mathematical literacy that will help students be successful in every
subsequent course in mathematics.

This class will cover all topics stated in the NYS Algebra 1 Common Core curriculum; it
culminates in the Algebra 1 Common Core Regents Exam in June. Success in this course
must be encouraged and emphasized since ​passing both the Algebra 1 course and regents
are part of the New York State graduation requirement!

Objectives/Goals:
By the end of this course, students will be able to…
● Simplify or identify equivalent algebraic expressions.
● Represent math relationships using symbolic algebra.
● Differentiate between linear and nonlinear functions.
● Model and describe slope as a rate of change.
● Identify the slope from a graph, table, or equation.
● Evaluate variable expressions and functions.
● Identify an equation of a line from given information.
● Recognize the general shape and properties of functions from graphs, tables, or
equations.
● Interpret the role of coefficients and constants on graphs of linear or quadratic
functions.
● Analyze functions by investigating domain, range, rates of change, intercepts, and
zeros.
● Model problems using functions and relations.
● Create and connect representations that are tabular, graphic, numeric, and symbolic
from a set of data.
● Represent quantitative relationships graphically and interpret the meaning of the
graph as it relates to a certain situation.
● Interpret and solve linear equations and inequalities.
● Solve and interpret graphs of systems of equations and inequalities.
● PASS THE ALGEBRA 1 REGENTS!!!!!
Course Topics:

Unit Topic

1 Statistics

2 Linear and Literal Equations

3 Inequalities

4 Functions

5 Graphing Linear Functions and Systems

6 Systems of Equations and Inequalities

7 Graphing Nonlinear Functions

8 Solving Quadratics

9 Sequences and Exponential Functions

10 Review

Required Materials:
● Binder
● Pen/Pencil
● Class notes and homework (Unit Packets)
● ALEKS/Literacy Notebook

** All notes, class assignments, and homework assignments will be posted on Google
Classroom. If you misplace your copy, it is your responsibility to print out a replacement.

Helpful Materials:
● Free online calculator:
○ https://www.desmos.com/calculator

● Algebra Resources:
○ http://mathbitsnotebook.com

Grading Distribution:
Your grade for this course will be determined by:

Assessments 45%

Classwork 35%

Homework 20%
Attendance:
It is very important that you attend class ​every day​. Class attendance is part of your grade
through daily Do Nows, participation, and classwork. If you are absent, it is your
responsibility to get any missed notes and make up all missed homework, classwork,
quizzes, or tests. If you are absent, you will have the number of days you were absent to
make up and hand in all assignments. For example, if you are absent for 3 days, you will
have 3 days to make up the work and turn it in on the 4th day. Missed quizzes must be
made up within two days and tests must be made up within a week of returning from an
absence. You are responsible for scheduling a time outside of class to make up all
assessments. If you fail to do this and do not hand in any missed homework, classwork,
quizzes, or tests, you will receive a 0.

Homework:
Homework will be mostly online. It will be assigned every Monday and it is expected to be
completed by the following Monday. For homework, we will be using the ALEKS or Delta
Math programs (both online). For ALEKS, your assignment will be to complete two hours
and ten topics each week. For Delta Math, you will be given a specific assignment to
complete. The two lowest homework grades will be dropped every quarter.

Quizzes:
In lieu of giving homework over the weekend, there will usually be a short weekly quiz every
Friday. These quizzes will cover the skills and material learned during the week. If you are
absent the day of a quiz, you will have two days to make it up when you return.

Tests:
A full-period exam will be given at the end of every unit. Every test will include both multiple
choice and extended response questions. If you are absent the day of an exam, you will
have one week to make it up when you return. Test corrections will be available after every
test for students to earn back up to half of the points they lost. These corrections will be
due one week after the test has been handed back. Test corrections will include correcting
the incorrect work, a written explanation of the error that was made, and a written
reflection.

Checkpoints:
Short assessments will be given throughout the year to gauge your understanding of the
standards and content that we are learning in class. These assessment will not be graded,
but they will count for a participation grade. They are meant to assess your understanding
and further guide out teaching practices on the standards.

Projects:
Projects will be assigned throughout the year on various topics. These projects will enhance
your understanding of Algebra 1 skills and concepts and demonstrate their applications in
the real world.
Extra Help:
I am available for callback every day in Room 230. I am also available after school at EBA.

Classroom Rules/Expectations:
In class, you are expected to follow all of the rules of Peekskill High School. You are also
expected to:
● Be in your seat and working on the Do Now when the bell rings
● Be prepared every day with all materials, an open mind, and a good attitude
● Take notes and participate in the lesson/activity
● Put and keep away all electronic devices
● Respect everyone and their belongings
● Work together!

BE RESPONSIBLE BE RESPECTFUL BE SAFE

** On the following page is a signature page that states that you and a parent/guardian
have read and acknowledged everything on this syllabus. Please read it over with your
parents/guardians and hand it in by ​Friday, September 13th​. It will count as your first
homework grade.
Parent/Guardian and Student Acknowledgement of Class Syllabus:
We have read the Algebra 1 Common Core Syllabus. We understand what is expected in this
class and will do what is asked to the best of our abilities.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Please hand in this signed form by
Friday, September 13th​. It will count as the first homework assignment grade.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Student’s Name

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Student’s Signature

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian’s Name

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian’s Signature

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian’s Email

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian’s Phone