Coach Barrow
[email protected]
281-920-8012
Westside High School
Course Information Algebra 1
Course Description
The goal of the Algebra 1 team is that all of our students understand and appreciate the mathematics
they are studying; that they can read it, write it, explore it, and communicate it with confidence; and
that they will be able to use mathematics as they need to in their lives.
We believe that problem solving (investigating, conjecturing, predicting, analyzing, and verifying),
followed by a well-reasoned presentation of results, is central to the process of learning mathematics,
and that this learning happens most effectively in a cooperative, student-centered classroom.
Class Procedures
When you enter class please follow the directions listed on the board. This course is problem-based,
student-centered and dependent upon discussion so be prepared to work on problems and share
solutions with a partner, group or class.
Grading
The following system will be used to determine grades:
Tests 60%
Quizzes 30%
Homework/Daily Grades 10%
TESTS - There will be three tests each six weeks on predetermined dates. Tests can and will contain any
topics covered throughout the year up to the test date. There will be a six weeks test at the end of the
1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th six weeks. This test will count as its own test grade and will also; 1) if passed, add
5 points to both previous test scores, 2) if passed, bring any failing test score to a 70, 3) if failed with a
higher failing grade than a previous test score, replace that score.
QUIZZES - The purpose of quizzes in this class is to check for your understanding of topics covered
every few days. Quizzes can be announced or pop; solo, partner, or group. You will be able to use
notes on some quizzes and not on others. If your test grade is higher than the corresponding quiz
grades, I will replace those quiz grades with your test grade.
HOMEWORK/DAILY GRADE - Homework is necessary for practice and for mastering the material
covered. You should spend no more than 40 minutes on homework from this class each night. You
will be graded on daily assignments as a completion grade. I will check your binder for these
assignments. You must keep your binder organized and all work must be shown and explanations clear.
Other grades may include spot check on homework and participation grades for participating in
discussions and putting problems on the board. At the end of the six weeks, I will average all your
homework grades and they will become 1 quiz grade.
LATE WORK – You will have 3 days to turn in any missing assignment for a 70. On the fourth day it
becomes a zero.
Absences/Make-Up Work
If you miss class for any reason it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to find out what it is that you missed. You
will have all work at least one week before it is due. If you miss the day that an assignment is due you
must turn it in the next day you are in school. If you miss a quiz or test day it is expected that you will
make up the test or quiz the day you return. If you miss multiple days we will make arrangements as
needed.
Tutoring
I will be in room N229 most mornings by 7:15. I have coaching responsibilities each afternoon. If you
can’t come in the mornings, you can go see another Algebra 1 teacher in the afternoon.
Classroom Rules
Be prompt, be prepared, and be polite.
Respect others and their property.
Obey all school rules.
Follow the Do Right Rule
“Do what you are supposed to do, when you are supposed to do it, the way it is supposed to be
done…and do it that way every time.”
Consequences
1st Offense:
2nd Offense:
3rd Offense:
4th Offense:
Severity Clause:
Warning
Warning/Conference with Teacher
Warning/Parent phone call
Discipline Referral to Assistant Principal
Severe disruption/behavior will result in an automatic referral to the Assistant
Principal
Tardy Policy
You are expected to be in class when the tardy bell rings. If you are not, then you are considered tardy.
Final Word
This is going to be an exciting year with mathematics presented in a way that is different from anything
you have done before in a math class. I know that if you give it your best you will be successful in this
class and an Algebra master by the end of the year. I am looking forward to getting to know you as a
person and a mathematician.