MACOPIN MIDDLE SCHOOL

Algebra 8 Honors

Syllabus

I.         COURSE TITLE

Algebra 8 Honors

II.        TEXTBOOK

Algebra 1, Explorations and Applications.  Richard G. Brown, et al. McDougal, Littell, Inc., Boston, MA, 1998.

III.       COURSE DESCRIPTION

The purpose of this course is to prepare students to make the transition from the specifics of arithmetic to the generalizations of higher mathematics.  Emphasis is placed on the use of positive and negative numbers, variables, linear equations, factoring, quadratic equations, and formulas as tools for problem solving.  Topics such as exponents, operations with polynomials, algebraic fractions and radicals, linear graphs, direct variation, ratio and proportion, and geometric relationships are included.  Translation, interpretation, and analysis of word problems are developed throughout the course.  The scientific calculator is used as a problem-solving tool.  Success at this level is necessary for continuation in the honors program.

 IV.      COURSE OBJECTIVES

A.            Use algebra to work with data.                                                              

B.             Apply algebraic concepts to simple equations and functions.

C.            Graphing Linear Equations                                  .                               

D.            Apply algebraic concepts to multi-step equations and inequalities.   

E.             Apply algebraic principles to geometric concepts                        

F.             Use right triangles and radical expressions to solve problems.         

G.            Apply algebraic concepts to solve systems of equations and inequalities.

H.            Graph and write quadratic equations and functions.                                 

I.               Use and apply properties of exponents and exponential functions.           

J.               Perform operations on and use polynomials.                               

K.            Use rational expressions and functions.                                       

L.             Explore topics in discrete mathematics

M.           Develop an appreciation for the role of mathematics in career opportunities.                    

  V.       COURSE CONTENT OUTLINE

A.            Introduction to Algebra and Data

B.             Equations and Functions

C.            Graphing Linear Equations

D.            Solving Equations and Inequalities

E.             Applications of Algebra and Geometry

F.             Rational and Irrational Numbers

G.            Systems of Equations and Inequalities

H.            Quadratic Functions

Algebra 8 Honors

Syllabus

Page 2

I.               Exponential Functions

J.               Polynomial Functions

K.            Rational Functions

L.             Discrete Mathematics

M.           Career Education

VI.              EVALUATION OF STUDENT LEARNING

A.            Evaluation Activities

           The evaluation of student performance will be based upon tests, quizzes, homework, and           class assignments.  A minimum of 30 minutes should be spent each day to complete assignments and review class notes.  Students are expected to participate in class     activities and to satisfactorily complete daily homework assignments.  The student is expected to take an active role in the learning process by participating in class and by     taking the initiative to seek extra help when difficulties arise.

B.             Grade Development

           Each marking period grade is determined by an average of the scores achieved during the          course of the marking period.  The final exam will count as one-ninth of the final grade.    It is expected that students maintain at least a "B-" average in order to continue in the          honors mathematics program in high school.

1.     Average of tests, quizzes, projects               -           90%

2.     Homework assignments                              -           10%

VII.            TEACHING AIDS AND MATERIALS 

             A.       McDougal, Littell.  Algebra 1 - Explorations and Applications resources

1.     Teacher’s edition

2.     Lab manual

3.     Technology book

4.     Practice bank

5.     Portfolio project book

6.     Challenge problems

7.     Assessment book

8.     Study guide

9.     Professional handbook

revised 6/07