June Wilby
Algebra, according to Webster’ Dictionary, can be described as "a generalization of arithmetic in which letters representing numbers are combined according to the rules of arithmetic". In this course, you will be using variables to describe patterns, solve problems and generalize rules. You will learn about graphs, data tables and equations of linear and quadratic functions. In addition, you will lean how to solve equations and systems. This course will be completed over three trimesters and is worth 6 credits. There will be a final exam at the end of each trimester.
Tests will be announced and topics will be listed. You will have the opportunity to retake any test or quiz after school (and average the two grades) provided you have done all of the homework and class work from that unit. You will have to meet with me after school at least one time to go over your errors from the test you are making up before you can do the make up test.
Projects and take-home tests will be assigned throughout the course and must be completed by the due dates. Every day late will earn a grade deduction. Students will be expected to be on their honor to do their own work on projects. I will be available to help you if you feel you need it.
In order for you to move on to the next course (Geometry) you will need to have a final grade of at least a C- in this course.
| Exam | 10% |
| Homework | 20% |
| Notebook | 10% |
| Quizzes/Tests | 60% |
You will be expected to come prepared and on time each day. “On time” means in your seat and ready to begin working when the bell rings. You should have your completed homework for that day, your math notebook and a writing utensil. You may also wish to bring a calculator.
Homework will be given almost every day. Doing homework is one way you will be able to practice the concepts you learn in class. In order for you to be a participating member of the class, you must have your homework done on time. I will collect all assignments and grade each homework assignment. After a homework has been graded you will be asked to make corrections. The grades for homework will be as follows:
Any work that is not graded as a 3 may be redone for a higher grade. If you are correcting work, I will expect you to correct the indicated problems neatly and attach the corrections to the original assignment. You should resubmit the complete assignment by the new due date written at the top of the page. Homework that is not turned in on time will be counted as late unless there is a written excuse on the top of the paper. You will be allowed only 10 late homework excuses for the trimester. Late work can be turned in but the highest grade you can earn will be a C.
You must have a loose-leaf notebook (about 1½“ wide) for this class. This notebook will account for your class participation grade. It must be kept in an organized manner. You should have four sections; NOTES, CLASS WORK, TESTS, HOMEWORK. It is your responsibility to save all your assignments in this notebook. You must bring your notebook to class every day. Your notebook will be graded each trimester. The grade you receive will be determined by the amount of completed work you have in your notebook. You will receive a list prior to the notebook due date that will tell you what papers must be included.
You should try to limit your time out of class to a minimum. In order for you to be a participating member of the class, you need to be in the room. Try to take care of all personal needs (bathroom, locker) during the passing period.
If you miss class due to an excused absence you must make up both the classwork and the homework. I will be happy to stay after school or see you during a free period to help you make up anything missed due to absence.
I will be available for extra help after school most days. (Note: Wednesdays tend to be the days most staff meetings occur.) You can find me in room 204 (our class room) or in room 221 (math office). I can also meet with you during a study period if I am free. Please ask me for an appointment if you need to meet with me during the day.
Webster defines plagiarism as “the act of appropriating ideas or literary materials from someone else and representing them as one’s own work”. Plagiarism, or academic dishonesty, is a serious issue and will be dealt with accordingly. A student who plagiarizes will receive no credit for his work, and both parents and the dean will be notified.