West Boylston Middle/High School

Welcome to Algebra 1 Honors

Instructor: Karen Zeno Contact information: Email- karenzeno@wbschools.com

I. Course Description:
This course is designed to expand on basic mathematical skills involving algebra. The topics that we will be
covering are: Solving linear equations, solving linear inequalities, graphing linear functions, writing linear
functions, solving systems of linear equations, exponential functions and sequences, polynomial equations and
factoring, graphing quadratic functions, solving quadratic equations, radical functions and equations and data
analysis and displays.
Textbook: Big Ideas Math Algebra 1 A Common Core Curriculum, By Ron Larson and Laurie Boswell
II. Classroom Norms:
Be prepared for class, ready to learn new and exciting material
Have a positive attitude
Be respectful to yourself, your peers, and your instructor.

III. What to Expect:

Bell ringer problems at the beginning of class
Taking notes (Binder check)
Participating in class - working alone, in pairs, and in groups
Weekly practice quizzes
No Cell Phone/Electronic Devices: In one word: DISTRACTION. If you have a cell phone out in class
without my permission, I will confiscate the device and you will pick it up in the office at the end of the
day. No excuses.

IV. Daily Required Materials:

Pencils (all homework and assessments must be done in pencil)
3-ring binder just for math
A graphing calculator
Graphing Calculators
Learning and using a graphing calculator is part of the Algebra 1 curriculum so its vital that your child
has one, no cell phone or iPod applications can be used in class.
The TI-84 is the recommended brand

V. Homework
Homework will be assigned throughout each chapter, typically on a daily basis.
All homework is due the following day unless stated otherwise. NO excuses will be accepted for
homework not done.
Homework is expected to be completed with all work shown and presented on the desk when the teacher
comes over to check it at the start of class.
Homework will be graded based on the level of effort and completeness, and is worth a total of 5 points:
5 Homework is COMPLETE, NEAT, and ALL WORK IS SHOWN.
3 More than 50% is attempted, ALL WORK IS SHOWN.
2 NO WORK SHOWN, or less than 50% attempted.
0 NO Homework.
If you are absent, the missed homework is due the day after you return. Students must show homework to
the teacher after an absence if the student wants credit for the work. There is a class folder that contains
assignments for absent students.
VI. Quizzes/Tests
Quizzes will be given throughout each chapter based on teachers discretion.
Chapter reviews will more often than not precede chapter tests. There will be a test at the end of each
chapter.
A cumulative exam will be given at the end of the semester.
Any quiz or test missed due to an absence must be made up within five school days, outside of class time.
Work not made up within the allotted time will be recorded as a zero.
Quiz corrections or test retakes are available for any quiz/test that the student scores below 60%. The
maximum grade for a quiz correction is 60%. This is available for one week after the quiz is returned. All
retakes are after school. The grade of the retake is final. Students should review the failed quiz/test and
seek help as needed before taking a makeup. It is recommended that students make use of this option to
improve their understanding of a particular topic. You must discuss with the teacher a time you can do the
retake.

VII. Evaluation/Grading Plan:

For each marking period, assessments are valued as follows:

Category Brief Description Weight

Participation in work completed in the classroom setting. This includes but is
Classwork not limited to: Bell Ringers, Worksheets, Vocabulary, Notebook, and Active 30%
Class Participation.

Homework This includes all work completed independently as homework assignments. 20%

This category entails both the traditional (test & quizzes) and alternative 50%
Assessment
(presentations, projects) methods of assessing student learning.

The course grade will be determined using the following percentage:

40% - Quarter 1
40% - Quarter 2
20% - Final Exam

VIII. Extra Help:

I am here to help you in your learning, dont hesitate to come by and ask questions. I am available after
school on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 2:10-3:10 p.m. Remember you are responsible for
your own learning; if you do not understand ASK, come for help.

All assignments and test dates are posted on the class website.
Go to the Middle High School Web Site, www.wbschools.com/wbmhs
Select Teacher Sites.
In the High School column, click on Ms. Zenos Web Site.

IX. TIPS FOR SUCCESS

Come to class prepared each day.
Take detailed notes.
Ask questions.
Do your homework every day and correct mistakes.
DO NOT throw away any of your math papers. You will find these to be useful throughout the year.
Talk to your teacher about any concerns you have. Communication is the key to success in this class.
 ALGEBRA 1 HONORS

Student Name (print) _________________________________________ Block ______

Student
Your signature on this sheet indicates that you understand the intent of the course and the expectations
you must meet for successful completion.

______________________________________ ________________________
Student Signature Date

Parent/Guardian
Your signature indicates that you have had the opportunity to read this information. Please discuss the
expectations with your child. Please do not hesitate to e-mail me at the high school if you have any
questions or concerns.

By signing below, I am confirming that my child and I have both read and understand the syllabus.

______________________________________ ________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature Date

______________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name (print)

__________________________ ________________________
Daytime Phone Number Evening Phone Number

________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Email