Welcome to Algebra 1

2016-2017

Mrs. Cecelia Mayer

cmayer@templetonusd.org
mathwithmayer.weebly.com

Extra help can be scheduled before school.

Expectations
Welcome to Algebra 1. It is expected that you commit yourself to the class: arrive prepared and ontime, participate in and out of class, ask questions, communicate what you do and do not understand,
complete all assignments honestly, and take responsibility of your progress.
As it is in all my classes, even more important than the academic expectations is the expectation of
good citizenry. Respectful, compassionate, and cooperative interactions with each other (and the
schools property) is a norm here in C-7. Further, only turn in work that YOU completed and that you
are proud of, approach challenges with an open mind, and dont let the fear of making mistakes
hold you back from learning.

Course Goals
By the end of the course, students will be able to persevere with problem solving using what they
know to solve problems. Specifically, they will distinguish between different types of functions,
especially linear and quadratic, using different problem-solving methods, including graphing. They
will use appropriate vocabulary and tools to help them articulate their undertandings and questions.
In learning, they will also try to understand others as they think about numbers in many ways.

Class Supplies
What you need:

Math binder, with four labeled dividers (warm-ups, handouts/notes, homework, tasks).
Something to write with.
Power School login: use it for the most updated version of your grade.
Internet if you need to access my webpage for extra copies of handouts/notes:
mathwithmayer.weebly.com

What you do NOT need:

Your cell phone: upon walking into class every day, put your cell phone into its cubby; it is
how I take roll, and if its not there, then youre not there. Defiance to do so will result in a
consultation with Mrs. Needham.
Food, gum, and other-than-water drinks (unless outlined by an individual education plan).

Grading Policy
Your grade is weighted as follows:

40%: Unit Chapter Tests: One per unit

20%: Homework/classwork: Every Day
20%: Chapter quizzes: One per unit
5%: Participation/Notes: Every day
15%: Final: One per semester (covers the information for just that semester)

Homework is collected at the beginning of every class period. Full credit is given to homework
assignments that are completed and on time. Completed homework turned in late is given 70%
credit, with a deadline of the units end. If you are absent, you are responsible for getting any
notes/handouts; I intend on using my class webpage to post any handouts, and Power School is
regularly used to post assignments.
If you are unhappy with your quiz grade, you can earn back half of the points you missed by
completing quiz corrections. The deadline for these quiz corrections is the units end.
If you earn below a 70% on any chapter test, you can earn up to a 10% improvement on that test
grade by scheduling a 5-question retake. Every problem is worth 2%. You must schedule to take it on
your own time within a week of the original test being returned to you. If your original grade was
below a 50%, you can earn up to a 60% using the mini-test.
Original tests stay with me.

Course Outline
Semester One
August 23, 2016 - December 22, 2016
Unit
Unit
Unit
Unit

1:
2:
3:
4:

Linear Equations
Linear Inequalities
Exponents and Polynomials
Factoring Polynomials

Semester Two
January 9, 2017 - June 8, 2017
Unit
Unit
Unit
Unit
Unit

5:
6:
7:
8:
9:

Linear Functions
Functions
Graphing Quadratics
Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Data Analysis

I am very much looking forward to our year in math together. It requires a lot of work, but I know you
are capable of it if youre up to it. Please remember that I am indeed on your side, and I am excited
to help you succeed.

I have read and understand the class rules and expectations outlined in the class syllabus.

Student Signature

please)

Parent Signature (include email