Algebra Course Description

"People dont lift weights so that they will be prepared should, one day, [someone] knock them over on the street and lay a barbell across their chests. You lift weights so that you can knock over a defensive lineman, or carry your groceries or lift your grandchildren without being sore the next day. You do math exercises so that you can improve your ability to think logically, so that you can be a better lawyer, doctor, architect, prison warden or parent. MATH IS MENTAL WEIGHT TRAINING. It is a means to an end (for most people), and not an end in itself.

Course Description: This is a traditional first year Algebra course taught in a nontraditional way. The emphasis in this class is on the concepts and not the calculations. We rely on all four methods of algebraic expression verbal, numerical, tabular, and graphical to help us solve and explain problems. Prepare to read and write in a math class. I think you will find this class challenging, interesting, different, and most importantly fun! Materials: You will need to bring to class the following: 1. Notebook/Binder - you will be receiving many handouts so a binder or a folder with pockets is a good idea. 2. Pen / Pencil 3. Graphing Calculator - you will be permitted to use the calculator in class, on homework, and on almost all tests and quizzes. Calculators may not be shared during tests. I only loan calculators if yours breaks during an exam. If you are on free lunch (not reduced) you may receive a calculator for free from the bookstore for your entire high school career. If there is any reason that you cannot come up with a calculator, you must let me know immediately. The recommended calculator is the TI-Nspire. Homework: Expect homework every night. Homework will usually be collected every day. I dont care if it is done in pen or pencil, but it must be neat and complete (nice rhyme!). Answers need to be written in complete sentences. Tests: Tests will be given approximately every two weeks. All exams are cumulative any material that we have learned in class up to the point of the exam is fair game. You will know about each test well in advance so being absent, especially for field trips is no excuse for not taking the exam. If you miss due to an excused absence you need to arrange a time with me to make up the exam. I do not give make up exams during class. If you miss due to an unexcused absence you are out of luck!

Algebra Course Description

Quizzes: In between tests I give what I call Only if they Help You quizzes. They are very short and only count if they help your grade. They intent is for both you and I to monitor how you are doing with the current material. If you dont understand a quiz it is a good sign that you and I need to talk about some of the material. Take advantage of these assessments and monitor your progress before the exam. Make-Up Work: If you miss a day of school, you are to make up what you missed by the day after you return. If you know you will miss class in advance, such as for a field trip, you are responsible to stop by and pick up the work for the day. There will be no make-ups for unexcused absences. If you are absent for a long period of time, arrangements should be made with me as to when everything should be done. In any case, it is your responsibility to get and complete the work you missed. It is also your responsibility to make sure I enter the grades for work you missed in the computer. Late homework will not be graded. Participation: Everyones participation is important to both each individuals success and the enjoyment of the classroom. Participation will be monitored throughout the semester and will count towards your final grade. Grading: Tests 75% Homework 15% Participation 10% Final Exam

= =

80% of your final grade 20% of your final grade

Grading Scale: I use the standard grading scale: 90-100 A 80 89 B 70 79 C Anything below a 60 is an F.

60 69 D

Attendance and Tardies: Get to class on time!! If the bell rings and you are not in the room you are late! I follow all the attendance policies that the school has set forth. Extra Help: Pop in anytime before or after school if you need help. I am usually in by 7:30 and here until at least 3:30. If you want to be sure I will be around just let me know. I want to do what it takes for you to succeed. If you have any questions or problems of any kind please dont hesitate to ask. N. Weisman Phone: 708-434-3231 E-mail: nweisman@oprfhs.org Website: http://faculty.oprfhs.org/nweisman P.S. All standard school rules apply

Algebra Course Description

211 Algebra 1-2 Open to all students Prerequisite: Mastery of arithmetic skills in 8th grade/pre-algebra 2 semesters 2 credits Traditional rst-year course in beginning algebra. Topics include data analysis, number patterns and properties, functions, equation solving, systems of linear equations and inequalities, lines and slope, distance, absolute value, radicals, polynomials, and quadratic equations. A spreadsheet unit is also included. A graphing calculator is required.