Mahnomen High School

COURSE SYLLABUS: Algebra I

Logistics

Instructor: Conner Guetter

Email: cguetter@mahnomen.k12.mn.us
Location: 234

Course Overview
Algebra is often called a gatekeeper course because it opens the door to all other areas of study in
mathematics. This course provides a comprehensive teaching of the fundamental aspects of
problem solving. Major topics of study include: evaluation of algebraic equations, exponent rules
and manipulation, polynomials, solving and graphing linear equations, solving and graphing two
variable inequalities, solving systems of equations, radicals, word problems, solving and
graphing quadratic equations, and factoring.

Units of Instruction

1. Algebra Basics
2. Multi-step Equations and Inequalities
3. Relations & Functions
4. Linear Relations
5. Systems of Equations & Inequalities
6. Exponent Rules
7. Polynomials & Factoring
8. Quadratic Equations

Methodology
Algebra I students will be instructed in a variety of methods, including, but not limited to:

 Direct instruction
 Class discussion
 Group work
 Individual work
 Note taking and organizational skills
 Discovery based instruction
 Google Classroom

Every effort will be made to demonstrate the relevance of the material covered in this course to
the ever changing world around them in addition to preparing them for Algebra I.

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Evaluation Criteria
What you learn, you earn! You are in control of your own learning, thus, in control of your
grade. You will get out of this course what you put into it. I will do my best to inspire you, guide
you, and help you in any way I can. The rest is up to you.

Grading Scale

A 100 – 92 B 87.99 – 82 C 77.99 – 72 D 67.99 – 62

A- 91.99 – 90 B- 81.90 – 80 C- 71.99-70 D- 61.99 – 60
B+ 89.99 – 88 C+ 79.99 – 78 D+ 69.99-68 F 59.99 – 0

Grade Composition

Assessments 40%
Assignments 40%
Notes/Class Participation 20%

Assignments & Assessments

You can expect to receive two to three assignments weekly based on the number of
lessons we get through. Assignments will be graded on proficiency as well as completion. You
will be given ample time during class to complete these assignments. If you are unable to
complete the assignments during class it is your responsibility to take them home and complete
them by the due date. Due dates for assignments are generally 2 days after the assignment is
given. Late assignments will be accepted but will receive an appropriate deduction based on the
number of days past the due date. Any missing work is scored as a zero until completed. You
will be given the number of days you were gone to make-up or turn in assignments before
penalty.
You can expect three to four quizzes per chapter as well as a chapter test upon
completing the unit. All quizzes and tests may be retaken for full credit. In order to do so you
must redo/complete the homework assignments associated with the question topics you missed.
Once these have been completed you can retake those portions of the test/quiz. If you miss class
on a test/quiz day it is your responsibility to schedule a time to make-up your quiz/test. I will
remind you once when you come back to class with a make-up slip from the office. All questions
on assessments will be graded using a 4-point grading scale shown below:

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4 100% Mastery Complete understanding of the concepts, no mistakes.

I completely understand this and I could do 20 more just like is, and
I can apply this skill in the future. Can I help explain this to someone
else?
3 85% Proficient Strong understanding of the concept but making mistakes.
I understand the process but when I do it on my own I may get a
wrong answer. Where am I going wrong?
2 75% Developing Basic understanding of the concept and needing more practice.
I can start but then I get stuck quite often. I’m getting there but I
need some more practice on this.
1 65% Beginning Very little understanding of the concept.
I’m trying to follow, but can you slow down or show me separately?
Can you show me that again? I’m not even sure how to start.
0 0% Incomplete No understanding of the concept.
What are we even doing right now? Maybe if I write something
down I can get points.

Materials

 Notebook
 1.5” wide 3 ring binder
 Pen or pencil
 Class notes
 School g-mail
 A good attitude

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CONTRACT: Algebra I

Please review the course syllabus with your parent or guardian. Review the
following notes below, and then sign the document. The contract is due one
day after it is assigned.
 Respect everybody in the classroom, be an involved contributor to our class, and have a
positive attitude.
 Be present and on time to class every day. If you are absent, you will have to bring me a
makeup slip when you come back where I will give you copies of handouts, notes, and
assignments from the previous class(es) that you missed. It is very important that you get
the materials you missed as soon as you return to school. If you need assistance in
learning the material, you should see me, your teacher after school, during study hall or
another appropriate time as soon as possible.
 Arrive on time and be prepared for class each and every day (should have notes,
writing/notetaking supplies, homework, etc.)
 Participate in class discussions, activities, and lessons.
 Use class time wisely. You are busy students, I understand this, and the best time to
complete your work for class is during class when you have access to your teacher and
peers.
 When you need help, make sure you ask for it. I am not a mind reader. Utilize your
resources: before/after school, peer help, tutor room, notes, textbook, etc.
 Ask questions! I want you to have a good understanding of the material and the best way
to learn is by asking questions.

We have read the Algebra I Student Course Syllabus and Contract and understand all the
expectations of this class.

STUDENT’S NAME (PRINTED): ________________________________________________

STUDENT’S SIGNATURE: _____________________________________________________

PARENT/GUARDIAN’S NAME (PRINTED): ______________________________________________

PARENT/GUARDIAN’S SIGNATURE: ___________________________________________________

PARENT/GUARDIAN’S CONTACT INFORMATION (OPTIONAL): __________________________

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