Course Descriptions Home

Algebra Concepts

Teacher(s):     Mrs. Edberg & Mr. Kleiman
Textbook:       Focus on Algebra
Publisher:       Addison-Wesley

Algebra Concepts is designed to develop the students’ understanding of the concepts of Algebra and provide additional assistance in the foundations of functional relationships. The year will begin with a comprehensive review of fractions, decimals, and integers.  Data organization and interpretation will follow stressing graphing and data analysis. Additional topics that will be covered in this course include: numerical patterns, language and grammar of Algebra, linear functions with their inequalities, and graphs. Consumer math applications will be explored as well.

This program encourages mathematical exploration, discovery, practice, application, reflection and self-assessment and emphasizes connections to the real world.  It provides a complete homework set that integrates skills, concepts, critical thinking, math reasoning, and applications.  Students are given opportunities to problem solve and explain their thinking.  Each section begins with an investigation that helps students construct mathematical meaning.

Each chapter is divided into three to five sections.  Two tests will be given throughout each chapter.  One test will be given midway through the chapter. The second test will be given at the end.  Students will, in most cases, be allowed to retake a test to improve their grade.  They will, however, be required to attend a study session before school before a retake is allowed.  Retakes must be taken within one week.  A mid-year and final exam will be given.

Students will be evaluated on daily assignments, quizzes, and tests.  Students will receive assignments on most days.  Time will generally be given in class to start the assignment, and some students may finish.  Assignments are due the next day unless otherwise stated.

No late work is accepted unless the student has been absent or because of special circumstances.  In case of an absence, the student will have one day per absence to make up the work.  It is the responsibility of the student to find out what assignments he or she has missed.

Upon successful completion of the Algebra Concepts class, the student will continue on to Algebra I the following year.