Pre-Algebra- Tips for Success
Overview: The goal of this class is to help students gain a working knowledge and understanding of many of the preliminary
concepts that will be used in future math classes.
Recommended Materials:
1) Although students often have their own method or style of keeping material organized, below is
a setup that should be very helpful in a math class. Bring these things each day!
a.
Username and Password - used to access the Online Edition of the Pre-Algebra Textbook
– Each student will be given the means to access the pre-algebra textbook online. We
will likely be working from the textbook in class every day.
b. Math Notebook - I recommend a three-ring binder with normal loose-leaf paper. It
should be divided into a section for class work/notes, a section for homework, and a
section for worksheet handouts. Extra paper can be kept in the back of the notebook
so that you don’t run out. The binder should be big enough to keep all notes and
homework for a single trimester. (1” to 1 ½” binder should work just fine.)
c. Folder- to keep old quizzes, tests and other handouts in one place!
d. Pencils, Pencils, Pencils (I encourage mechanical…you’ll never need to rely on a pencil
sharpener again!)
e. Eventually, you will be using graph paper, rulers, compasses, and calculators. I
will have some available for you, but it’s always best to have your own stuff.
Day to Day:
1) “Good students put in the effort to take good notes.” This is an important skill that we will work
on throughout the year. Here are two big tips:
a. Don’t write down every word that is said! Try to keep a good record of what is discussed
and written on the board during class.
b. Always write down the solutions to problems exactly (don’t skip steps!). These are key
to have, so that when you go to do your homework you can apply them. It is not
necessary to write down the problems seen in class as every problem will be included
with the handouts given at the beginning of each unit.
2) Be involved in class.
a. Remember, you are here to LEARN, not just to be TAUGHT. (Your role in that is
active, not passive.)
b. If the teacher goes too fast or you don’t understand something, say something!
c. Ask questions. It keeps you involved and your brain juices flowing.
3) Never miss a single homework assignment.
a. This will greatly improve your retention of material and will also help you identify topics
you need help with.
b. There is a strong correlation between students who do an assignment every day and
students that earn a high mark in that class.
Preparing Assignments:
1) Keep track of assignments in a HW planner. Homework assignments will be posted regularly on
the class webpage on Moodle.
2) Attempt ALL problems assigned for homework. HOMEWORK IS GRADED ON EFFORT,
NOT CORRECTNESS! Think through each problem and show the necessary steps. You can go
through sample problems from class, examples in the textbook, or even use www.hotmath.com
to guide you through some problems. (password: ss123) This is just one of many resources on
the web. Look for helpful links to be posted on the class webpage on Moodle.
3) Be aware of the appearance of your work.
a. Although you may understand what you’ve written, I can’t give you credit for
completing the assignment unless I can read it …sorry!
Preparing for Tests:
1) Try to review the information in as many ways as you can.
a. Read it, write it, quiz your friends, make up and answer possible test questions.
b. Review each and every problem on the worksheets given in class and for homework in
the textbook.
2) Do not wait until the night before a test to study!
a. Work on problems daily.
3) Come for extra help.
a. Be aware of teacher office hours and plan ahead…don’t wait until the last minute or
your teacher may be busy!
b. Office Hours will be posted once the school year is underway.
c. Other ways to get extra help regularly will be announced in class.
4) Prepare a self test.
a. Answer questions out of your text
b. CHALLENGE YOURSELF!
Overall, be positive and relax. You CAN do this! Set some goals for yourself in this class. Try to
make them challenging, but realistic.