Algebra

Ms. Roush
mroush@phalenacademies.org

General Course Information

Course Overview:
Algebra 1 uses mathematical language and logical thought to discover equations, inequalities, relations, and
functions. We will use guided notes, guided practice, and independent practice to prepare for assessments and
projects.
Standards:
This course will be centered around Indiana’s Algebra I College & Career Readiness State Standards, which
can be found in full at the Indiana Department of Education webpage at
http://www.doe.in.gov/standards/mathematics.
Course Goals
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
• Use the properties of real numbers to simplify algebraic formulas.
• Solve linear equations and inequalities.
• Draw and interpret graphs of relations and define the domains and ranges of functions.
• Produce linear graphs and their equations.
• Solve a two-variable system of equations.
• Solve a two-variable system of inequalities.
• Simplify algebraic fractions.
• Perform operations with polynomials.
• Factor polynomials.
• Analyze data and statistics.
• Discuss mathematics through the appropriate use of vocabulary.
• Critique the mathematics of others through quantitative evidence.
• Use a scientific calculator appropriately.
• Set appropriate goals and meet them.
Grading: All assignments, quizzes, projects and assessments will be graded on a point system, which will be
weighted 60% for mastery activities and 40% for practice activities. The final exam will account for 5% of
your final grade; the midterm exam will account for 5% of your final grade. Algebra 1 is graded using a skills-
based approach; this means that you will receive a score for each skill we cover in the course.

Overall Grade 100%

Coursework 90% Midterm 5% Final Exam 5%

Mastery 60% Practice 40%

(54%) (36%)
Classroom Activities

• In Class Practice: may include bell work, guided notes, guided practice, or skill check. Usually
graded on completion, but may be checked occasionally for correctness.

• Mastery Skill Test [Mastery]: Every two to three weeks, there will be a mastery skill test. Retesting of
previous skills may be included on new mastery skill tests, and the score for each skill will be replaced
by the most recent grade.

• Midterm and Final: There will be a cumulative benchmark exam and final exam each semester. Full
credit will be given for problems with correct work and correct answers. Each assessment will have an
accompanying study guide, which must be completed and turned in for points.

• Remediation Policy:
o You may re-take two mastery skills each nine-weeks for up to 100% credit.
o You may not remediate the midterm exam or final exam.

Supplies:
Please bring the following supplies to class:
o Binder
o Tabbed Dividers
o Pencils (Only work completed in pencil will be accepted!)
o Colored Pen for self-grading
o Eraser
o Scientific Calculator: a scientific calculator that display all the inputs on the screen.
Calculator Recommendation (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED):
• Texas Instruments TI-30X IIS 2-Line Scientific Calculator
• Casio FX300MS Scientific Calculator
• Texas Instruments TI-30XS MultiView Scientific Calculator

Donations: PARENTS: If you are able and would like to send in supplies for the class, I would appreciate it!
Things I commonly have in the room are: pencils, erasers, notebook paper, dry erase markers, and small
rewards (such as candy and small snacks). Please contact me via email if you have questions or are interested
in donating materials.
Assistance

1. My website contains important class information and printable handouts for each day we have class.
You may print materials when you are absent from class, as well as view helpful resources, such as
links and filled-in notes at https://www.roushphalen.weebly.com.
2. Office hours will be provided to help students with the coursework outside of class.
3. If you need to contact me after school hours, please feel free to email.
4. Rose-Hulman’s Homework Hotline, which provides free math and science homework help to Indiana
students from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m., is a great resource. You may visit their website at
www.askrose.org or call toll free at 1-877-ASK-ROSE.

School Behavior Policy:

At all times, Phalen Academy students will:
1. Show respect for people, property, and the learning process.
2. Be in correct uniform with identification card.
3. Use school-appropriate and responsible language.
4. Remain awake, alert, and engaged in class.
5. Come to class on time and prepared to learn.
6. Come to class without food, candy, gum, or unauthorized beverages.
7. Come to class without cell phones or other unauthorized electronic devices.
Classroom Expectations:
In addition to the school policies, students will:
1. Follow directions the first time they are given.
2. Remain in their seat at all times.
3. Give 100% effort 100% of the time.
4. Support their peers in their learning.
Responses to Behavior:
• Both appropriate and inappropriate behavior will be documented and shared with both administration
and parents, particularly through LiveSchool.
• LiveSchool points will reflect merits and demerits issued for behavior choices.
 Detach this page and return to Ms. Roush

Note to Parents: Your signature below acknowledges your receipt of this syllabus. Please ensure that your student
returns this form to Ms. Roush by (A) Thursday, January 9th or (B) Friday, January 10th. If you have any questions
or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me via email.

_________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ ____________________________

Parent/Guardian Printed Name Parent/Guardian signature Date

_________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ ____________________________
Student Printed Name Student Signature Date

Questions, comments, concerns? Use this space below to communicate with your teacher! We look forward
to hearing from you.