2023-2024 ALGEBRA 7 CLASS SYLLABUS
Ms. Alicia Bena
[email protected]Course Overview: Algebra 1 is an advanced high school level course. For more information,
please refer to Core Standards Algebra.
Textbooks
● SpringBoard Algebra 1
● Prentice-Hall Algebra 1
● Supplemental instructional materials determined by the teacher (Desmos, Foerster, etc.)
Recommended Materials and Notebook:
● Graphing Spiral notebook - A dedicated math spiral notebook that contains graphing
binder paper on which students will do their homework.
● 3 Ring Binder (1-1.5 inch)
● Scientific calculator - A graphing calculator is NOT necessary.
● Writing utensil
● Straight edge
● Highlighters
Assessments: A number of assessments will be utilized to ascertain comprehension of the
various math standards and units. If a student is absent on the day of an exam, he/she/they
is/are responsible for arranging to take the exam based on teacher availability as soon as
possible.
● We use Standards-Based Grading (SBG). Students earn a score—4, 3, 2, or 1—to represent
the level of understanding according to the LASD Mastery Rubric.
● Scores will be posted on PowerSchool for key assignments and assessments.
● Unit assessments are given every 3 - 4 weeks. Algebra is an advanced class. If a student is
not able to show mastery or keep up with the pacing, contact home will be made.
● Exam re-takes of end of unit assessments are usually allowed with time permitting but a
request for a re-take will generally need to be accompanied by a body of work indicating
that the material has been better comprehended.
● Only allow a retake if a student scored a 1 or 2 on the original test.
● Allow only up to 2 retakes for the entire school year.
● Quizzes and end-of unit assessments will not be sent home. Copies of assessments can be
sent home per student or family request.
● In addition to academic standards, teachers evaluate students’ abilities to utilize
non-academic skills (ie Learning Behaviors).
o Learning behavior scores will indicate student growth in aspects of learning such as
perseverance, goal-setting, responsibility and collaboration.
Units of Study: To pass the class, students must score a 3 or 4 on at least five of the seven
curriculum units.
■ Equations and Inequalities
■ Functions (Domain/Range)
■ Linear Functions
■ Systems of Equations and Inequalities
■ Exponents and Radicals
■ Polynomials
■ Quadratics
Assignments: Homework will usually be assigned every day each week and is generally due at
the beginning of the next class meeting.
● Average of 60 minutes of uninterrupted time per assignment.
● Stop if spending more than 60 minutes of uninterrupted time.
● “In-class” assignments and projects will also be given.
● Homework assignments will be shared in class and posted on Google Classroom. Do NOT
submit the assignments on Google Classroom.
● Assignments will be assessed on completeness and amount of justification; this will be part
of the learning behaviors grade.
Grading: Academic grades mostly based on exams on Units of Study listed above.
■ Grades are a score from 1 to 4 according to a scoring rubric typically based on a raw
percentage score. A typical scoring rubric score is as follows, but can vary for each
exam.
■ 4 (Mastery): 90% <= score <= 100%
■ 3 (Approaching): 75% <= score < 90%
■ 2 (Developing): 60% <= score < 75%
■ 1 (Beginning): 0% <= score < 60%
■ Grades are recorded in PowerSchool (not in Google Classroom)
■ Missing assignments are recorded in PowerSchool (not in Google Classroom)
■ Learning behavior grades based on the criteria listed in the Learning Behavior section
below for what Learning Behaviors mean in math.
Learning Behaviors: In addition to the given LASD definitions and indicators in the LASD
Behaviors Rubric shown at the bottom of this page, Learning Behaviors in math are measured as
follows:
■ LB.1 Adapt and Persevere: Working towards and earning proficient or mastery in math.
■ LB.2 Make responsible decisions: Measured as described in the LASD Behaviors Rubric.
■ LB.3 Be a Self-Directed Learner: Turning in all applicable assignments. Minimal to no
missing assignments.
■ LB.4 Collaborate with Peers and Adults: Attending tutorials especially when necessary.
■ LB.5 Set Goals and Meet Them: Self-monitoring any 1’s and 2’s earned and working to
address those grades.
Extra Help: If a student is having difficulty with the work, or if s/he feels the need for some extra
review, students should attend the Google Meets. Students are also welcome to log on to Khan
Academy or other sites listed on the website if that is helpful. Parents and students may email
me at any time with questions or concerns. Due to the increased number of emails, please allow
up to 48 hours to respond.
***This is an advanced level class. All students are expected to maintain standards of 3 or 4.
Low standards may result in a change of class placement.***
I have read and I understand the structure and course requirements for Algebra.
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Student Signature Parent Signature
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Student Name Parent Name
