Description and Objectives

This is a comprehensive course in algebra I which introduces and develops the rules of algebraic expressions and equations. Students will learn the basic concepts of arithmetical laws, functions and equations. It will help the students develop analytical and logical reasoning skills as well as the discipline of practice and focus through word problems.  One goal is to bring each student to a point where he can use the language of algebra as a natural way of expressing mathematical ideas.  This course builds a strong foundation of algebraic skills so that the student is well-prepared for future math courses.

Outline of Topics Covered

• Changing algebraic expressions into equations
• Understanding commutative, associative and distributive properties
• Solving equations using charts
• Polynomials and Factoring polynomials
• Operations with fractions
• Proportions
• Linear equations
• Inequalities
• Quadratic functions

Textbooks

Algebra, Structure and Method (Book 1) by McDougal and Littell (ISBN # 0-395-97724-X).

Authors: Richard Brown, Mary Dolciani, Robert Sorgenfrey, and William Cole.

Course Requirements

Each day, students should bring the following materials to class:

• Textbook
• Composition Notebook
• Writing Utensils

Successful Students

Your final grade is based on a point system.

• Tests (100 points each)
• Quests (50 points)
• Quizzes (20 points each)
• Homework (10 points each)
• Classroom Assignments (10 points each)

Absences from Class

If a student is absent from class, he is responsible for:

1. Having homework assignments completed within two class periods upon return
2. Taking any test or quiz on the day of his return. If a student is absent for more than one day, the make-up date will be determined by Mr. Kilmer.

Summer Assignment

Mr. Kilmer’s Summer Math Packet (1)