COURSE AND CONTACT INFORMATION
Course Title: Algebra 1
Instructor: Mr. Corey Kelly
Grade Level (s): 9th
Textbook (Title, Publisher, and Date): Algebra 1 California Edition, Holt, Rinehart, and Winston 2008
Appointment Procedures: Email is the preferred communication method: [email protected]
I am happy to meet after school in room 308. Web access for course materials may be found at
www.dlshs.org/webpages/
Telephone Procedures: I prefer email and it is more reliable, however, I can be reached at school 925-288-8100 ext.
7063
Course Description:
This course is designed to develop the necessary computational, procedural, and problem solving skills to provide a solid
foundation for further study in mathematics. It includes the study of variables, algebraic properties, linear equation and
inequalities, systems of equations and inequalities, graphing, linear, quadratic, and exponential functions, radical
expressions and radical equations, polynomials, irrational numbers, and methods of solving real-life problems. A TI-83
or TI-84 calculator is required for this course. TI-89 or symbolic manipulators will not be allowed.
Course Outcomes:
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
1. Use the properties of real numbers and algebra to solve a variety of problems.
2. Solve linear equations and inequalities and their systems both algebraically and graphically.
3. Determine the equations of lines when given the slope and the y-intercept, two points, the slope and a point,
and a point and the equation of a parallel or perpendicular line.
4. Use verbal models, tables, graphs, and equations to represent and interpret data.
5. Understand the concepts and vocabulary related to relations and functions.
6. Perform basic operations and factor polynomial expression.
7. Solve quadratic equation by using square root, factoring, graphing, completing the square, by using the
quadratic formula, and by using the calculator.
8. Understand the relationship between quadratic equations and quadratic functions.
9. Perform operations with matrices.
10. Apply the properties of exponents to expressions and equations.
11. Simplify radical expressions and solve radical equations.
12. See connections between various branches of mathematics.
13. Demonstrate knowledge of the application of math to other subjects and real-world situations.
14. Use a graphing calculator appropriately to do numerical calculations, solve and graph data, develop tables, store
and display data, and acquire statistical information.
15. Effectively communicate ideas and work cooperatively with others
16. Work collaboratively and respectfully with other students in order to learn different skills and perspectives from
others.
Instructional/Teaching Methods:
1. Students are expected to take notes.
2. Lecture will be on the white board and on the Smart Board.
3. Students will from time to time be put in groups or called to the front of the class to present solutions and
theories involving problems.
CLASSROOM POLICIES
General Class Information
 All work is to be done in pencil and corrected in blue or black pen. Students doing work in pencil during
correction time will not receive credit.
 There is a 15 min after school bathroom opportunity cost and cell phone collateral for using the bathroom
during class. No one may be excused from the room for any other reason besides an emergency.
Course/Instructor Requirements:
1. Positive class and group participation.
2. Satisfactory completion of homework, quizzes, and tests.
3. Regular and prompt attendance to class.
Conduct Expectations:
1. Be actively and positively involved in all class activities including, but not limited to, note taking, class discussions,
and group work.
2. Treat all persons and things in the class with respect and courtesy.
3. Use appropriate language and actions towards others at all times.
Attendance:
 Students that are absent are required to check Mr. Kelly’s website for work that is missed and have that work for
the next available class day, unless other arrangements have been previously made with Mr. Kelly.
 Students must arrange a time with Mr. Kelly to make up any tests and quizzes that are missed within 1 week of
return date or they will receive a ZERO for the test or quiz.
Grading Procedures:
The student’s work will be assessed through homework and in-class written assignments, quizzes, tests, and a cumulative
semester final. Grades for this course are calculated on a weighted scale. The categories are as follows:
Organization/Collaboration 5 %
Homework
15%
Quiz
25%
Tests
35%
Semester Final:
20%
**Semester grades are given on the following cumulative scale
A
94-100
B+
87-89
C+
77-79
D+
67-69
F
0-59
A90-93
B
84-86
C
74-76
D
64-67
B80-83
C70-73
D60-63
Note: Extra credit is not offer throughout the year.
Homework Policy
All HW must be neat, complete, and organized to receive full credit.
Homework will receive a grade based on completion of each assignment, with work handwritten. Homework is
assigned frequently and will be check when the bell rings.
A student who does not have his/her homework will fill out a NO HW slip and report to mandatory HW duty at
3:15 for 30 min (or lunch) with Mr. Kelly to complete the assignment for half credit. Students who do not
attend HW duty will be referred to the dean and be will be required to complete the HW for no credit during
another HW duty session.
Quizzes will be given over homework assignments.
Materials:
We agree that you will be prepared to work every day with the following:
Pen and Pencil
Homework
1 or 1.5 inch binder
Calculator
1 Subject College Ruled Notebook Bellwork /Notes (Will need to purchase approximately 4 throughout the year.)