Brookwood High School

Syllabus for Algebra I with Probability

Teacher: Laurie Elliott, lrelliott@tcss.net

School Phone: 205-342-2777

Website: brookwoodhigh.tcss.net

Course Overview:

Algebra I with Probability is a course which builds upon algebraic concepts studied in the middle grades. It provides students with the necessary knowledge of algebra and probability for use in everyday life and in the subsequent study of mathematics. This is one of three courses required for all students. Students can obtain the essential content from this course either by taking the course after completing Geometry with Data Analysis in Grade 9 or by completing the middle school accelerated pathway. Algebra I with Probability builds essential concepts necessary for students to meet their postsecondary goals (whether they pursue additional study or enter the workforce), to function as effective citizens, and to recognize the wonder, joy, and beauty of mathematics (NCTM, 2018). Algebra is important and useful in most careers. It is one of the most common and malleable types of mathematics, because it is valuable in a range of activities from ordinary decision-making to advanced training in scientific and technological fields. The ability to understand and apply algebraic thinking is a crucial stepping stone on a successful journey in life.

Course Prerequisites:

For students taking Algebra I – Students must have successfully completed Geometry with Data Analysis

Standards of Mathematical Practice:

The Standards for Mathematical Practice describe varieties of expertise that mathematics educators at all levels should seek to develop in their students. These practices are based on important “processes and proficiencies” that have longstanding importance in mathematics education. Mathematically proficient students: 1. Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them, 2. Reason abstractly and quantitatively, 3. Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others, 4. Model with mathematics, 5. Use appropriate tools strategically, 6. Attend to precision, 7. Look for and make use of structure, 8. Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.

Attendance:

Attendance is very important to successful completion of the course. You are jeopardizing your chances for both good grades and successful ACT scores if you miss class often.

*Remember that field trips are optional, they are not required. If you go on a field trip please come to Mrs. Elliott to get any assignments that you might miss. The same make-up policy applies to field trips as it does to any other absence.

Make Up Policy:

As per board policy, students who have an excused absence, have two days upon returning to school to schedule a time to make up missed work. A student who is absent from school on a review and/or test and/or quiz day, will be required to take the test or quiz the first day back to school. Per board policy, if a student has an unexcused absence when graded work is taken that grade is automatically a zero. The same policy with the exception of major projects/exams will apply to suspensions.

Math Supplies:

A 1-2” three-ring binder filled with loose-leaf paper or notebook used strictly for math.

Several Pencils and Erasers

A scientific or graphing calculator

If you would like to donate Kleenex, hand sanitizer, or paper towels, for classroom use it would be greatly appreciated.

Grading Policy:

All grades are recorded on a points system. Tests are worth the most points followed by quizzes, class work, and homework. Grades will be put in PowerSchool as soon as they are graded, and you are responsible for keeping up with your own grades. The final exam is comprehensive and is worth 20% of your final grade. I do not assign extra credit. Full effort should be given to this course, and your understanding of course material is your responsibility. You will not pass this course if you cannot do the work. If you are struggling with the material, take the initiative to seek help from others or myself.

Cheating:

Any student caught cheating (giving or receiving information) will receive a grade of zero on the assignment, and may result in a discipline referral. Copying homework is considered cheating.

Testing Policy:

Calculators may not be shared.

If you are only absent the day of a test, you will be expected to make arrangements to make up that test.

Work must be shown in order to receive credit.

Personal Electronic Devices:

Technology can be a valuable educational resource. Students are allowed to use electronic and technological devices at specified times and only when authorized by the teacher for instructional purposes. If a student is using a device inappropriately, consequences will be enforced as stated in the Brookwood High School Cell Phone Policy, this includes TCSS distributed iPads.

Classroom Expectations:

You must be sitting in your assigned desk and ready to work before the tardy bell rings.

Bring supplies to class every day.

Eating snacks, chewing gum, and drinking beverages (other than water) is NOT allowed during class.

Do not ask for a pass out of class for any reason. No passes to restroom, locker, phone, or office.

Follow all instructions, the FIRST time, given to you by the teacher.

Listen attentively when someone is speaking to the class. Do not become a class distraction.

There will be NO sleeping or putting your head down during class. Students must participate and complete assignments.

When announcements are made over the intercom, EVERYONE will be silent. It may not be information you need, but someone in the classroom needs that information.

Have good manners and show everyone respect.

Always have a positive attitude in class.

Remain seated until the teacher dismisses you at the end of the period.

Follow all guidelines and procedures as outlined by Brookwood High School and the Tuscaloosa County Board of Education.

Guidelines for Assignments:

Use a PENCIL ONLY to compete assignments (A pen may be used for personal class notes)

Write the date and a description of each entry at the top of the page.

Show all necessary steps and circle answers to receive full credit. Work should be neat and easy to follow.

Anything turned in must include the student’s first AND last name, the date, the class period, and the assignment (including page numbers and assigned problems, if coming from a text)

Copy down all parts of example problems, definitions, and rules given. Copy examples using all the steps I show. It is difficult to study without clear and complete notes.

Consequences:

First Offense- Verbal Warning

Second Offense- Parental Contact

Third Offense- Disciplinary Referral

However, any profanity, fighting, damage to school property, teacher property or student property, or is disrespectful (as defined by the teacher) will be sent to the office immediately.
Students and Parents,

Welcome to Algebra II! I am so excited for what this school year has in store. Please remember a few things:

It is important that students are at school every day possible.

We will work hard every single day in class! No day will ever be a free day. Please make sure you come to school ready to learn and work hard.

It is important that you do your part in order to be successful. Complete homework and classwork assignments, take notes, participate in class discussions, and work collaboratively within your class group.

Please feel free to contact me whenever necessary. You may contact me by note, calling the school (205-342-2777), or by emailing me at lrelliott@tcss.net. I have first block prep (7:45-9:16).

Parents, please remember to check your student’s progress on PowerSchool. I will be updating grades weekly. Progress reports will be sent home in the middle of each nine weeks grading period.

It is your responsibility to monitor your child’s progress. Please use PowerSchool If you have difficulties accessing PowerSchool contact the main office for assistance.

A copy of my syllabus is located on my classroom page on the school’s website under the classroom expectations tab, or you can scan the QR code on this page. If you would like a hard copy of the syllabus, please send me an email.

Most importantly, have a positive attitude! I am always here to help!

Also, check out these great online resources if you need extra help or review for a test:

www.hippocampus.org

www.coolmath.com

www.mathtv.com

www.khanacaemy.org

Please keep this portion of the letter in a convenient location as a reference and return the bottom portion signed and dated to Mrs. Elliott.

Your signature indicates that you have read and agree with all of the material listed in this syllabus.

Signature of Student:

________________________________________________________ Date: ________________

Signature of Parent:

________________________________________________________ Date: ________________

Parent’s Email: __________________________________ Phone Number: __________________

*Please give Mrs. Elliott at least one way to contact parent/guardian to discuss progress being made in class. Please write email addresses legibly.