Algebra I Class Guide

Tiyan High School

2014-2015

Welcome to a great school year! I am excited to see where we will go this school year at the new THS!
Algebra I Description
Students review the language of algebra properties, operations with integers, and absolute value. They then
study solving equations and inequalities with one variable, (including word problems). Polynomials, and
beginning factoring. During the second semester students do more work with factoring and study rational
numbers, applications of rational numbers, real numbers, solving and graphing equations and inequalities with
two variables, quadratic equations, and systems of equations.
Course Objectives
Students will strengthen and develop skills in:
Unit 1: Algebra Fundamentals
Unit 2: Solving Linear Equation
Unit 3: Solving Linear Inequalities
Unit 4: Linear Reasoning
Unit 5: Linear Functions
Unit 6: Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities
Unit 7: Exponentials and Radical Expressions
Unit 8: Polynomial Expressions and Functions
Unit 9: Quadratic Functions
Unit 10: Linear Modeling and Statistics
Literacy Standards
This year, Tiyan High School focuses on school-wide specific literacy standards. Throughout this school year
the standards will be:
o R.1: Read closely to determine what the text says explicitly and to make logical inferences from it.
(Please use MLA when applicable)
o W.9: Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
o SL.1: Prepare for and participate effectively in a range of conversations and collaborations with diverse
partners, building on others ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.
A strong emphasis will be placed on developing math specific vocabulary skills and using those skills to solve
real-world problems.

Quarterly Common Core State Standards
1
st
Quarter:
Students will analyze, interpret, and simplify
expressions.
A.SSE.1.a
A.SSE.1.b
S.ID.1
2
nd
Quarter:
Students will represent, graph and analyze one and
two categorical data from multiple sources to
interpret differences in shape, center, and spread.
They will write clear summaries to describe patterns
observed in the data.
Mr. Casta
Rm K203
atcasta@gdoe.net
Main Office: 300-2721

Students will develop sound mathematical reasoning
skills and forms of argument to make reasonable
judgment about a solution for a problem.
N.Q.1
N.Q.2
N.Q.3

Students will be able to create equations and
inequalities in one variable to solve problems and
justify each step in a solution method.
A.CED.1
A.REI.1
A.REI.3
F.IF.1



S.ID.1
S.ID.2
S.ID.3
S.ID.5

Students will create a scattered plot from two
quantitative variables, identify independent and
dependent variables, and described relationship of
variables.
S.ID.6.a
S.ID.6.b
S.ID.6.c
S.ID.7
S.ID.8
S.ID.9

Students will explore equations and inequalities
including domains and ranges to fit the problems
context, as well as rewrite formulas for a variable of
interest.
A.CED.2
A.CED.3
A.CED.4

Students will use function notation and analyze the
input and output values of a function based on the
problem situations.
F.IF.2
F.IF.6



3
rd
Quarter:
Students will interpret and compare more complex
functions with inconsistent rate of change and
examine graphs that include an analysis of the
domain of the function.
F.IF.4
F.IF.5
F.IF.7.8
F.IF.9

Students will link expressions and functions by
connecting multiple representations of functional
relations and understand that changing the forms of
expressions, such as factoring, completing square,
and transforming from one exponential form to
another, are processes that have specific goals in
mind. They will make connections between
arithmetic of integers and fluency of polynomial
arithmetic.
A.SSE.2
A.SSE.3.a
A.SSE.3.b
A.SSE.3.c
4
th
Quarter:
Students will construct and interpret graphs and
tables of linear, exponential, logarithmic, and
trigonometric functions, and distinguish and model
with linear functions and exponential functions.
F.LE.1.a
F.LE.1.b
F.LE.1.c
F.LE.2
F.LE.3
F.LE.5

Students will expand concept of exponents to include
fractional exponents and connect fractional
exponents to radicals
N.RN.1
N.RN.2
N.RN.3

Students will graph squared root, cube root, and
piecewise-defined functions, include step functions
and absolute value, and describe key characteristics
among all functions and their graphs.
A.APR.1

Students will solve quadratic equations by using
quadratic formula, completing the square, factoring,
and by simple inspection when appropriate. They
will solve systems of equations in two variables, bot
algebraically and graphically, and be able to interpret
the solutions.
A.REI.4.a
A.REI.4.b
A.REI.6
A.REI.7

Students will use technology to solve equations.
A.REI.5
A.REI.10
A.REI.11
A.REI.12


F.IF.3
F.IF.7.b
F.IF.7.e
F.IF.8.a
F.IF.8b

Students will describe relationship using both
recursive and explicit formulas.
F.BF.1.a
F.BF.1.b
F.BF.2
F.BF.3
F.BF.4.a
Standards for Mathematical Practice
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

Grading Policy/Scale
This course is based on a weight system:
Each semester is a combination of 2 quarter grades worth 45% each and a semester exam grade worth 10%.
Each quarter is combination of 3 categories: Tests worth 40%, quizzes worth 35%, and homework/classwork
work 25%.
o Tests: Unit assessments will be presented after every completed unit and students will not be able to
use any form of support (from others, notes, etc.). Students will be given notice ahead of time when a
unit test will be.
o Quizzes: Quizzes will be given throughout the unit and students may use notes or study guides but not
help from other individuals. Students may or may not be given notice of when a quiz will occur.
o Classwork: Classwork consists of assignments that are to be completed during the class block.
Classwork will not be accepted late unless the student is absent from class. If a student chooses not to
complete classwork during the class period, that student will receive a zero for that assignment.
o Homework: Homework will be given on a daily bases. In order to receive credit, work must be shown.
Any assignment received without a name will be thrown away.
*Studies have shown that the more homework students do, the better their achievement. Specifically,
data indicates that for about every 30 minutes of additional homework a student does per night, his/her
overall GPA increases half a point (Classroom Instruction that Works).
*** EXTRA CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES ARE RARE. COMPLETE AND SUBMIT YOUR WORK THE FIRST
TIME AROUND!


Semester 1:
1
st
Quarter: 45%
Unit Tests: 40%
Quizzes: 35%
Homework/classwork: 25%
2
nd
Quarter: 45%
Unit Tests: 40%
Quizzes: 35%
Homework/classwork: 25%
Semester 1 Exam 10%
Semester 2:
3rd Quarter: 45%
Unit Tests: 40%
Quizzes: 35%
Homework/classwork: 25%
4th Quarter: 45%
Unit Tests: 40%
Quizzes: 35%
Homework/classwork: 25%
Semester 2 Exam 10%


Grading Scale
A = 100%-90%
B = 89%-80%
C = 79%-70%
D = 69%-60%
F = 59% and below

Make up work policy for absences
The student is responsible for getting any and all make up work the day he/she returns back to school. All
make-up work is due the following Monday after the student returns. If a student is absent the day of a test or
quiz, the student has one week to make up that assessment.
Assessment retake policy
Students are allowed one retake on tests and quizzes within one week of the assessment being handed back
to the student. Students are not allowed to use any notes or any form of help on a retake.
Late work Policy
Late work will only be accepted one class period past the due date for half credit. If student is absent the day
an assignment is due, that assignment is due the day the student returns back to class.
Interventions and support
If a student is struggling in class, it is his/her responsibility to seek help outside of class meetings. The
following support will be offered, but not limited to:
1. Peer tutoring during class time
2. Individual tutoring is available upon request (after school or during lunch).
3. Some helpful website:
a. Online Textbooks: https://sites.google.com/site/sshsmathdepartment/subject-area
b. Math Videos: http://www.mathtv.com
c. Math Games: http://www.coolmath-games.com
d. Online Tutoring: http://www.mathplanet.com
Academic Misconduct
Academic Integrity, based on the values of honesty, trust, fairness, respect, and responsibility, is a
fundamental principle at Tiyan High School. Work that violates these values is incompatible with the goals of
this class and will not be tolerated. Any student participating in any form of academic misconduct will receive a
0 grade with no chance to make-up the assignment. Parent contact will be made regarding the incident.
* Academic misconduct includes but is not limited to: plagiarism (using another persons writing or
copying any work without proper citation), falsification, academic fraud (deceit or trickery by which a student
seeks to gain an unfair or dishonest advantage in relation to a students learning and assessment activities),
unauthorized collaboration during a test or on an assignment, or substitution for another student to take an
exam, course or test.
Classroom rules
***I fully expect that these rules will be followed at all times. If you fail to follow these rules, you will receive one
verbal warning. If the inappropriate behavior does not cease, you will be disciplined according to the rules of
the Student Handbook, including a call home, a parent conference, detention, and/or a referral. A classroom
should be a safe environment where learning is the top priority.
1. Raise your hand and quietly wait to be called on
2. Listen quietly while others (teacher or students) are specking
a. Everyone will feel comfortable to express their thoughts, ideas, and questions without
interruption or disruption
3. Be in your seat and working on the DMR(daily math review) when the bell rings
4. Follow directions the first time and stay in your assigned seat until otherwise instructed by the teacher
5. No food, drinks (except water), gum, or electronic devices in the classroom
a. If a student chooses to use on electronic device during class hours, he/she will receive one
warning to put it away. If he/she chooses again to disregard the rule, the device will be
confiscated and a parent will be notified to pick up the device at the main office.
* I dismiss you, not the bell. Before you can leave my room, it must be clean, the desks must be in rows, and
you must be in your assigned seat. Only then will you be dismissed.
**Know the student handbook: If it is in there it applies in here.
Progressive Discipline
Minor Infractions
1
st
offense: verbal warning
2
nd
offense: parent contact; Lunch detention with teacher
3
rd
offense: referral to counselor
4
th
offense: parent contact and discipline referral

Major Infractions
Direct and immediate discipline referral.

Everyday Expectations
We will create a learning conducive environment where everyone has a part to play. In order to everyone to be
successful, the everyday expectations are:
Be Prepared
Be Positive
Be Productive
Be Respectful
Be Responsible
*Everyone (teacher and students) will be help accountability to meet these expectations every day.
Class Resources and supplies
Class Textbook (provided)
Pencils, eraser, & pens (only black or dark blue ink accepted) and red pens to correct your paper
Math specific composition notebook
Filler paper and printing paper (optional)
Ruler
Folder
Additional classroom supplies that would be greatly appreciated, but not required:
o Hand sanitizer
o Paper towel
o Kleenex
o Toilet tissue
o Post-It notes
o Scientific calculator (will not always be allowed to use in class)
You CANNOT use cell phones as calculators

Attendance Policy and Expectations
It is very important that students are present and on time to every class period. Excessive tardies and
absences can/will serious harm a students success in this class.
Board Policy 411
1. High school students are considered absent during a school day when they are NOT present for more
than one-half of the regularly scheduled contact hour(s).
2. Absence(s) for three (3) or more consecutive days requires a doctors note within two days.
3. A parent note is required for 1-2 days of absence. There is a limit of 6 parent notes, per semester.
Anything beyond requires a doctors note and the discretion of the administration.
4. Twelve (12) unexcused absences warrants a referral to SAO for truancy and to Family Court (17 GCA
6401 (c)).
5. A student with an excused absence has an opportunity to make up work missed in class.
6. High school students who incur unexcused absences of 12% or more of the days of a course, during
the fall or spring semester, cannot receive a passing grade for that course, for that semester. Students
who are unable to receive a passing grade because of this policy shall receive a NO CREDIT (NC).
7. A student who arrives to class after the tardy bell, one second to 9 minutes and 59 seconds, is
considered late.
8. A student who is 10 or more minutes late to class will be marked absent, even though the student is
present in class.
9. Three unexcused tardies equate to one unexcused absence.

Service Learning:
Public Law 30-53 specifies that The mission of SL is to allow each student to gain knowledge of the
communitys needs, to expand their learning beyond the four walls of the classroom, to provide opportunities
for lifelong intellectual and personal growth, and to feel the intrinsic rewards associated with giving back to
society.
The Tiyan math department will be offering 3 service learning opportunities this school year:
1. Christmas card drive (possible 5 hours):
Students will create Christmas cards for various organization based on geometric formulas and
dimensions.
2. Pi Day (possible 3 hours)
Students will plan and host a Pi Day celebration filled with math fun and games
3. 5K run/walk for charity (possible 2 hours):
Students can participate in a 5k charity event of their choosing to gather data about their
running speed to calculate time to run different distances.

*DISCLAIMER: Changes to this syllabus may be charged or undated throughout the school year. Students will
be well information of any occurring changes.

______________________________ _____________________________________
Mr. Casta, Algebra I Teacher Acknowledged by: THS Administrator


Algebra I Agreement
Student: Mr. Casta reviewed the components outlined in his syllabus. You understand that the syllabus may be
modified in light of unforeseen circumstances, and understand you will be notified in advance of changes to the
syllabus. You understand your academic and behavior responsibilities, and that you will be held accountable
for your learning and progress towards meeting the course objectives and standards.

Parent/Guardian: You have reviewed the syllabus. You discussed key points of the syllabus with your child.
You acknowledge that the syllabus may be modified in light of unforeseen circumstances. You understand that
your child has academic and behavior responsibilities, and will be held accountable for course objectives and
standards. You acknowledge that we, teacher and parent/guardian, must work together to support your childs
academic and behavior development.

Thank you for taking the time to read the course syllabus. Please sign below and return on or before August
29, 2014. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me during school hours at the
above number.

_______________________________________________________________________________________
Student Print Sign Date Block


________________________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Print Sign Date

Contact Information Sheet
Please take a few minutes to fill-out the following information and have your student return it to me. Thank you.

Home Phone Number____________________ Cell Number ________________Work number:____________

Contact E-mail Address___________________________________________

Mailing Address:________________________________________________________________________

Adult(s) at home to be contacted regarding your student:
Name______________________________________ Relationship________________________________

Name______________________________________ Relationship________________________________

Other Information (about the student)

Does your child have access to the Internet at home? Yes No

Additional Comments (Feel free to note any concerns or additional information that will help me in working
with your student---- medical, social, academic, etc.):

CLASS SCHEDULE

Name_______________________

SEMESTER1
Time Room # Subject Teacher
Block 1


Block 2


Block 3


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Block 6