Course Expectations Mrs. Seiler

Algebra I

Materials: Loose leaf paper, 3-ring binder (1” to 2”), pencils, pen, scientific calculator,

POSITIVE ATTITUDE

Grades: Your quarter grades will be based on test, quiz, homework, notebook, and project grades. Your semester grade will be based on the two quarter grades and the semester exam. The two quarter grades will each be 45% of your semester grade, and the exam will be 10% of your semester grade.

1. Homework

Homework will be assigned daily. You will usually be given time at the end of the period to begin your homework. If your math is not done and you work on another subject, the book will be taken from you until the end of the hour. If you do not use your study time working on math, expect to be assigned detention time after school to work on it. Your homework should be neat and I should be able to find your answers or follow your work. Homework can be graded by any of the following methods.

a. Collected – You will turn it in and I will grade it for correctness. (10 to 20 points)

b. Checked – You will keep it on your desk and at the beginning of the hour I will check to see that it is complete. (5 points – complete, 3 points – partial, 0 points – none or just started)

c. Homework Quiz – You will be asked to look back at three or four homework assignments and copy down specific problems chosen by the teacher. It is important for you to be sure your notebook is neat and orderly and also that your homework is completed with corrections made. (8 to 16 points)

2. Notebook

Your notebook will be kept it your 3 ring binder. It will include all notes, homework, handouts, worksheets, quizzes, and tests. Materials will be kept in order by Chapter. It will also contain a DTP (definitions, theorems, postulates) section. It will be graded after every chapter. (Up to 20 points)

3. Quizzes

All quizzes will be announced so that you have adequate time to prepare. They will be frequent and will range in length from 10 to 30 minutes. Their purpose is to check for understanding of the material in small amounts so that you are not "cramming" before a test.

4. Tests

All tests will be announced well in advance and will last one class period. They will be given at the end of every chapter.

5. Exams

Exams are given at the end of each semester and are always comprehensive.

6. Projects

At least one project per quarter will be assigned. You will be given at least four weeks notice before it is due. The majority of the work will be completed outside of the classroom.