Math AH (Algebra Honors) - Ms. Romano

2011-2012 Course Expectations

 Welcome to Algebra Honors! The following pages will outline some course requirements, supplies, expectations, and other important information that you will need to know this year. I look forward to helping you achieve your math-related goals, experience success in this class, and enjoy math. It’s going to be a great year!!

The following supplies are required for this class:

·         a three-ring binder (2 or 2 ½ inches is preferable)

·         loose-leaf paper (make sure you have some for EVERY math class)

·         graph paper (make sure you have some for EVERY math class)

·         pencils and/or blue or black pens – homework, tests, quizzes, etc. may be completed in pen OR pencil,

               EXCEPT FOR GRAPHS,  WHICH MUST BE DONE IN PENCIL!!!!!!!!

·         a ruler/straight-edge (six-inch rulers are fine)

·         a TI-84 Plus/Plus Silver Edition graphing calculator (this is what I will use in class to demonstrate problems)

·         an eraser (note:  if you choose to use non-erasable pen for assignments, tests, quizzes, etc., you should be especially careful not to make a mess of your paper if you make an error)

Textbooks will be distributed within the first few days of class. Each book has been assigned a unique number, which will be kept on file. These textbooks are in good condition, and are expected to be returned similarly at the end of the year. Because of this, your math textbook MUST BE COVERED!! You may leave your textbook at home most of the time, as we will have some classroom copies. You may also access your textbook online, although you cannot print from the online version.  The website is http://ny.algebra1.com; the username is ALG1NY06; and the password is 7a5174bd (these are both case-sensitive).  If you have trouble logging in to the website, please let me know. 

 There are a variety of ways that you will earn your grade in this class. They include, but are not limited to:

1.  Homework:   Homework will be assigned daily and will be due the following school day. Each assignment is worth two points. To receive full credit, homework should be done neatly and all work should be shown, including the initial problem . Late homework will not be accepted, except in the case of absence. If you are absent from class, your homework is due within two days after you return to school. On occasion, homework will also be collected for a grade.

2.  Quizzes/Tests:   Quizzes and/or tests will be given on a regular basis. Quizzes will typically be worth between 10 and 30 points, and tests will typically be worth between 50 and 100 points. You will be given at least two days notice before a test date. Quizzes may be given at ANY time.

3.  Cumulative Review Assignments:  These are given periodically to reinforce and review topics that we have already covered in class.  Typically, students will have multiple days to complete a Cumulative Review assignment.

Your quarter and final grades are based on a total point system.  I strongly encourage you and your parents to use the Portal for updated grade information on a regular basis.  If you need more information regarding the Portal, please let me know and I will help you as best I can. 

If you have an excused absence on the day of a quiz or test, you are expected to take the quiz or test within TWO days of returning to school. If you have an excused absence the day before a test or quiz, you have the option of taking it with the class or on the following day. A grade of "0" will be recorded in the gradebook if the test/quiz is not made up within the time periods indicated above.   I use the computerized gradebook, and students are encouraged to check periodically to make sure that the grades listed are correct, and to see if they have any missing assignments.  (see below)

If you have an excused absence* on any class day, it is YOUR responsibility to see me for your make-up work. Homework assignments are posted on my website. You should get the class notes from someone in your class. If you know you are going to be absent, please let me know as far in advance as you can. This will make it easier to provide you with homework and other information you may need.  Any material distributed in class is located in the folder(s) in the back of the classroom, which students may access BEFORE or AFTER class, or during a study hall.  Any returned items will also be located in your personal folder, filed alphabetically by class period. 

If you feel like you need some additional help or practice, you are welcome to come and see me during one of my planning periods. If you would like to come before or after school, please see me to make arrangements. DO NOT WAIT TO SEEK HELP! The pace of this course will be fairly rapid, and it is very difficult to catch up if you fall behind. Remember that I am here to help you!!

You are expected to show respect to everyone in class, to school property, and the property of others. Behavior that disrupts the learning process will not be tolerated. You are also expected to act responsibly every day by coming to class prepared, by having your homework assignments completed to the best of your ability, and by being ready to listen and participate in class activities.

I anticipate an exciting, challenging, and productive year, and look forward to working with you!!

Ms. Romano

romasusa@shenet.org

 *excused absences also include music lessons, assemblies, field trips, team days, and any other event that may take you out of the classroom.  In some instances, students may be required to miss math class – HOWEVER, you are still responsible for the material that was covered on that day.  All of my classes are mixed seventh and eighth graders, from Acadia, Gowana, and Koda.  This means that the entire class is rarely missing at the same time – which means that I keep teaching, even if a few students are missing for an assembly, field trip, etc.  If you have any questions or concerns about missing math class because of these special events, please contact me and we can work together toward a reasonable solution.