Intermediate Algebra
Trout Lake School
Class Expectations for Intermediate Algebra
Mrs. Fink
j.fink@tlschool.net
Course Description
This course is designed to help students improve their understanding of algebra and acquire better proficiency in applying algebraic concepts and skills. Students will continue to develop problem solving skills and a deeper understanding of the mathematical principles. They will enhance their understanding through the use of mathematical vocabulary, technology and symbols. This course is also designed to help students prepare for Algebra 2
Possible Units of Study:
Expressions, Equations, and Inequalities Polynomials & Factoring
Intro to Functions Quadratic Functions & Equations
Linear Functions Statistics & Probability
Systems of Equations & Inequalities Radicals
Exponents & Exponential Functions
Daily Expectations
Students are expected to log onto Google Classroom daily for announcements, notes/videos of lessons, online resources, answer keys, assignments and due dates. Students should come to class on time and ready to learn. They should take notes, participate in class discussions and collaborative problem solving as well as complete all of the assignments to the best of their ability. I have created packets of work for each unit. Each packet will list all of the assignments for the unit and contain all of the needed worksheets.
Students may work together to help each other understand worksheets and book work. It is expected that all quizzes and tests are completed without outside help from any other people or the internet. If a student receives help on a quiz or test from an outside source, they will receive a zero on the assignment. Students who habitually cheat on assignments will be referred to an administrator and may risk losing credit for the course.
Supplies Needed for the Course
-One section in a 3 ring binder with dividers. -3-5 Graph paper notebooks
-TI-84plus Graphing Calculator with batteries/charger -Pencils and extra erasers
-Chromebook
Grading
Grades will be determined by a cumulative point system. To calculate your grade, simply divide the total points the student earned by the total possible points. Students and parents can check grades at any time by logging into Skyward.
Unit Tests = 100 points each
Quizzes = 10 – 50 points each, depending on length and difficulty.
Homework = 5 points each (if checked only for completeness)
Unit Progress Tracking/Reflection = 10 points each
Other Cumulative Review Assignments,SAT Practices = 15 -100 points.
Midterm and Final Exams = 200 points
Homework/Assignment Policy
To receive credit for a homework assignment the student must:
1) Complete the entire assignment as listed on the board and in Google Classroom. (This may also include watching a video and taking notes).
2) Show work for problems as demonstrated in class. This pertains to all assignments, including quizzes and tests. Failure to show work will result in loss of credit for those problems even if the answers are correct.
3) Have the assignment completed and in class when it is due. Late work is not accepted.
4) When the answers are made available on Google classroom, students are expected to check them before coming to class the next day.
5) Maintain a homework log to be turned in for a grade. Although homework is usually graded for completeness, it is left to the teacher’s discretion to collect HW (or other assignments) and assign a grade based on correctness.
Make Up Work
Students should check Google Classroom when they are absent to obtain the makeup assignment(s),videos, and notes. If a student knows they will be absent in advance for an appointment or vacation, please let me know as soon as possible so we can plan ahead together. Students are required to make up all classwork and homework. The assignments are due the next class day unless other arrangements are made with me. Quizzes and tests must be made up upon the day of return unless other arrangements have been made. It is very important that students do not fall behind in math class because it is extremely difficult to catch up! If students have questions or need any help, they should email me immediately. I can answer questions by email or we can schedule a help session on Google Meets.
Attendance and Unexcused Absences
Good attendance is crucial in all mathematics courses. Often, the material learned during a lesson is needed for the following lesson. Any students who are absent more than twelve times, for any reason, in a semester may lose credit for the course. It is the parent’s responsibility to request a hearing as outlined in Policy 3313.
Many students may be absent due to a field trip or an extracurricular activity, such as a sporting event. It is that student’s responsibility to turn in any assignments and take any quizzes or tests before leaving for the activity. It is also the student’s responsibility to obtain the notes and complete the assignment for that day. Failure to do any of these things will result in a zero for all of the activities.
Illness may require that a student quarantine for multiple school days. I understand that it will be challenging for students to keep up with the class, but it is imperative that they do their best not to fall behind. I will post work, notes and videos on Google Classroom to help students keep up with the rest of their class. I will also be happy to hold help sessions on Google Meet for students who cannot come to school. As a parent, it is imperative that you monitor your child’s work and encourage them to communicate with me if they are struggling.
Tardy Policy
A student is tardy to class if they are not in their assigned seat when the bell rings. Students will receive a warning for the first unexcused tardy. On the second unexcused tardy, he or she will receive a detention. Any more than two tardies per marking period will result in an administrative referral. Please keep in mind that three tardies are equivalent to one class absence. A student who is tardy also risks having any grades that are recorded during their absence entered into the gradebook as a zero.
Extra Help
Extra help is available before school,during lunch or right after school. It is the student’s responsibility to check with me before coming (to make sure that I am available at that time) as well as arrange the necessary transportation to or from school. I am not available while I am teaching other classes. If students need help when they are absent from school, they can request a google meeting with me to go over notes and assignments.
Student Conduct
Students are expected to follow all rules, regulations, and procedures in the Student Handbook at all times. Students should always use self-discipline and show utmost respect to the teacher and their classmates. Students are always expected to be prepared for class, participate in all activities and complete all assignments. Google Classroom and email should be checked daily. Failure to comply will result in appropriate disciplinary action such as a call or email home, detention, or referral to an administrator.
Cell Phones/Electronics Policy
Cell phones and other electronic devices must be silenced and placed in the students’ backpacks during class. If students fail to do so, I will require them to be placed in the hanging organizer by the door to my room when they come in for class. The phone will then stay in the organizer for the entire class period unless a student receives my permission to retrieve and use their phone. Any violations of the policy will result in confiscation of the device and an administrative referral. Students may use their Chromebook during class when given permission to check email,Google Classroom, Skyward, or listen to music.