Course Name: Algebra II

Instructor: Mr. Allison

 

Course Overview: 

Algebra II is a course that focuses on basic and essential algebraic concepts.  It will include experiences and activities that allow you to complete the course with an understanding and feeling for the value of algebra in our lives.  Problem solving, mathematical reasoning, mental computation, and TI-84 Plus graphing calculator use will be incorporated into the course.  Every skill that you are required to master in this course is Eligible Content and will be assessed on the PSSA test, which you must obtain proficiency on as a graduation requirement.

My approach used in this course emphasizes that mathematics is as much a process (something one does) as it is a product (something one possesses).  To create a balance between giving you a chance to think on your own and having you communicate with and learn from other students, the activities are a combination of lecture sessions and interactive class participation.

 

Please keep in mind that this is a year-long course and we are following an 8-period day schedule; thus, class time is extremely valuable.  Moreover, the time you dedicate to this course outside of class is equally if not more important than classroom instruction.  Because this is an upper-level mathematics course, you will be expected to act as self-directed learners.

Course Objectives:

Upon successful completion of Algebra II, the student should be able to:

• Represent and/or use numbers in equivalent forms (e.g., integers, fractions, decimals, percents, square roots, exponents and scientific notation).
• Apply number theory concepts to show relationships between real numbers in problem solving settings.
• Estimate the value of an irrational number.
  • Apply ratio and/or proportion in problem-solving situations.
  • Use exponents, roots and/or absolute value to solve problems.
  • Apply the order of operations in computation and in problem-solving situations.
  • Use estimation strategies in problem-solving situations.
  • Analyze and/or use patterns or relations.
  • Write, solve and/or graph linear equations and inequalities using various methods.
  • Simplify expressions involving polynomials.
  • Describe and/or determine rates of change.
  • Compute and/or use the slope of a line.
  • Interpret and/or use linear, quadratic and/or exponential functions and their equations, graphs or tables.
  • Appropriately display and/or use data in problem-solving settings.
  • Use measures of central tendency to describe a set of data.
  • Apply probability and/or odds to practical situations.
  • Apply counting techniques in problem-solving settings.
  • Make predictions using data displays and probability.
  • Analyze and/or interpret data on a scatter plot and/or use a scatter plot to make predictions.

 

Classroom Rules:

• Attendance

It is absolutely necessary that you attend class on a regular basis.  In the case of an absence, you must get an excusal slip from your academy secretary before you return to class.  Do not enter the classroom without an excusal slip.

 

• Behavior

Class will begin promptly every day.  I expect you to come to class prepared and ready to work.  Off-task behavior is unacceptable.  Responsible and respectful behavior is expected at all times.  The following rules are to be followed at all times:  Be Respectful, Be Honorable, Be There, and Be Prepared.  A more detailed explanation of classroom rules and expectations follows in the Code of Conduct Contract.

 

• Tardies

You MUST arrive to class on time!  Class will begin promptly each day.  I expect you to be prompt as well.  Coming to class late is a disruption in the educational process of others; therefore, it will be handled in a very strict, consistent fashion.  I expect you to be in your seat when the bell rings; otherwise, that, too, will be considered a late.  Accurate records will be kept.  If you are late to class 2 times, a phone call home will be made.  If you are late an additional 2 times (total of 4 lates), another phone call home will be made and a log will be written.  Bottom line, BE ON TIME!!!!!!!

Course Materials:

1.)  Loose leaf notebook paper (provided)

2.)  Pencils

3.)  Calculator

4.)  Folder

Course Text & Readings:

Holt Algebra 2 – Holt, Rinehart, Winston – Burger, Chard, Hall, Kennedy, Leinwand, Renfro, Seymour, & Waits

Assessments:

There will be a variety of formative and summative assessments used throughout the year including tests, quizzes, and classroom observation.

Grading Policy & Procedures:

• Grading Scale

Grades can be determined at any time throughout the term using the following grading scale:

                                                                100 – 93 %                A

                                                                92 – 82 %                  B

                                                                81 – 70 %                  C

                                                                69 – 60 %                  D

                                                                59 – 0 %                     F

 

• Academic Dishonesty

Any act of academic dishonesty (cheating on exams, plagiarism of homework, etc.) WILL NOT

BE TOLERATED and will result in the following:

 

1.)  a zero on the work involved

2.)  a phone call home to parent/guardian

3.)  a discipline log being sent to the office.

 

 

• Quizzes / Tests

Quizzes will be given throughout the units of study and may be announced or unannounced.  We quiz frequently throughout each unit of study.   

Tests will occur at the end of each unit of study.  They will always be announced at least two days in advance.  Please try to be in attendance on test days!  In some cases, we will review the day before a test.  If you are absent on a review day, you are still responsible for taking the test the day you return!  No exceptions! 

 

• Homework

Most of your learning experiences will take place inside the classroom; however, there are times when homework will be assigned.  You are expected to have your homework completed by the due date.  No late homework will be accepted.  No exceptions, no excuses.

   

 

 

Course Outline:

 

Foundations for Functions

• Properties of Real Numbers
• Square Roots
• Simplifying Algebraic Expressions
• Properties of Exponents
• Relations and Functions
• Function Notation
• Introduction to Parent Functions (just graphs)

 

Linear Functions

• Solving Linear Equations and Inequalities
• Proportional Reasoning
• Graphing Linear Equations
• Writing Linear Functions
• Linear Inequalities in Two Variables
• Curve Fitting with Linear Models
• Solving Absolute Value Equations and Inequalities
• Absolute Value Functions

 

Linear Systems

• Using Graphs and Tables to Solve Linear Systems
• Using Algebraic Methods to Solve Linear Systems
• Solving Systems of Linear Inequalities

 

Polynomial Functions

• Polynomials
• Multiplying Polynomials
• Dividing Polynomials
• Factoring Polynomials
• Solving Quadratic Equations by Graphing and Factoring

 

Rational and Radical Functions

• Variation Functions
• Multiplying and Dividing Rational Expressions
• Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions

 

Probability and Statistics

• Permutations and Combinations
• Theoretical and Experimental Probability
• Independent and Dependent Events
• Compound Events
• Measures of Central Tendency and Variation

 

 

 

Code of Conduct Contract

2009 – 2010

v All Greater Johnstown regulations, responsibilities, and disciplinary options stated in the Code of Student Discipline book will be expected and followed for every student in this classroom.

 

v Point values will be assigned to each infraction.

 

1.)       Respect yourself, classmates, administration, faculty, staff, and

property of JHS.  Treat others as you wish to be treated.   

2.)       Students will be ON TIME FOR CLASS!  Sleeping or inactivity will

not be tolerated.

3.)       Students will remain seated at all times.

 

4.)       Students will raise their hands to talk.

 

5.)       Students need to be prepared for EVERY class.  No one will be

permitted to leave the classroom after the bell rings for the start of class.

6.)       Students are expected to do their own work.  Plagiarism and  

cheating will result in disciplinary actions as stated in the Greater Johnstown School Handbook and could result in a failing grade for the year.

7.)       Students are expected in class EVERY DAY!  When absent, YOU are responsible for any make-up work.

 

8.)       Please leave food, candy, and drinks at home.

 

9.)       All electronic devices are prohibited in the classroom.  Specifically, cell phone possession is severely restricted.  Students caught with cell phones in their possession will have them confiscated and they must be picked up by a parent/guardian in the main office.

 

 

 

 

Please return this paper to Mr. Allison no later than Thursday, September 2nd.

 

I have read and understand the overall course structure as well as the student requirements and responsibilities.   I have also read the rules in the Code of Conduct Contract and understand them and the consequences that result if not followed. 

 

Student Name:
Student Signature :		Date:
Parent/ Guardian Name:		Relation:
Parent / Guardian Signature		Date: