Mastering Algebra 1 for 8th-10th Grade Students

Mastering the Foundations of Algebra 1 will help students conquer the core academic skills needed to be successful in future math classes of all levels. As a professional Algebra 1 teacher, I will guide the class through the foundations of  Algebra instruction with the purpose of long-term mastery. Students will asked to complete problems during the lesson to show understanding. I will be teaching using Smart Notebook, a TI-84 calculator, Desmos.com, DeltaMath.com, Quizizz.com, Quizlet.com, and other excellent web resources to maximize student achievement and engagement. Lessons will be a mixture of slides, exploration, games, and discussion question. Having been exposed to Pre-Algebra will benefit any student, but it is not a pre-requisite. 

The skills taught in this course are selected from standards found in most Algebra 1 classrooms in the United States. The mastery of these standards will undoubtedly prepare any student for the next level. Here is a list of the following skills that will be taught in the course:

1.	Simplifying Expressions – A Review of adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing expressions, along with the Distribution Method. 
2.	Exponent Rules – This lesson will review exponents and how problems can be simplified. I will discuss the importance of simplification and give students a way to remember how to simplify any problem moving forward.
3.	Solving Linear Equations – We will review solving 1-step, 2-step, and variables on both sides, as well as how to solve in more advanced situations seen in more difficult problems.
4.	Solving  Absolute Value Equations and Interval Notation – Students will learn the key differences between solving an absolute value equation, as well as the importance of learning interval notation to  describe various intervals of x on the number line. 
5.	Inequalities – We will learn about the inequality symbols, their application in life, as well as how to solve and graph common inequalities seen in Algebra. 
6.	Functions and Relations – Students will learn about functions in Algebra in multiple representations, their notation, and their real-world application in computer programming.
7.	Graphing ANY Function Using Input/output – This class will learn how to graph any equation/function based on the fundamental concept of input/output from Lesson 5 about Functions and Relations.
8.	Graphing Linear Functions – Students will master how to graph linear functions, using the general form y = mx + b and Standard Form         Ax + By = C
9.	Linear Word Problems – I will teach students how to read problems critically to find the key information needed to model, graph and solve the problem.
10.	Systems of Linear Equations – We will explore how to solve problems given multiple equations in 3 ways: Graphing, Substitution, and Elimination. 
11.	Percentages – Students will master how to convert decimals/fractions to percentages, how to calculate percentage questions, and how to solve basic percentage of gain/loss in an investment. 
12.	Introduction to Exponential Functions – We will explore exponential Functions, their general equation form, graph characteristics, and explore common exponential applications in the real world.
13.	Compound Interest – Students will learn about how to read/calculate compound interest 
14.	Linear vs. Exponential – Students will begin to categorize problems are linear or exponential, and learn how to provide as much academic information about the problems as possible, such as write the equation and/or identify key values using correct vocabulary like y-intercept, slope, etc. 
15.	Introduction to Quadratics – This lesson will provide an introduction to the world of quadratics. We will explore their graphs, key vocabulary such as y-intercept, stretch/compression, vertex , and graphical translations.
16.	Solving Quadratics Pt 1– We will explore how to solve quadratics using graphing,  square rooting, and the quadratic formula. 
17.	Factoring Quadratics – Students will review their multiplication table facts as we explore the world of factoring quadratic expressions in the 4 most common methods: GCF, Coefficients of 1, AC Method, and Difference in Perfect Squares.
18.	Solving Quadratics Pt 1– We will explore how to solve quadratics using factoring, a common Algebra skill in advanced classes. I will also reinforce graphing as a method of solving quadratics. 
19.	Simplifying Radicals – This lesson will help students master how to simplify radicals numerical/algebraic expressions. We will also learn how this skill is important when calculating advanced Quadratic Formula problems.
20.	High School Statistics – We will review the foundations of statistics and how it progresses in 7th-11th grade math courses. We will also have some fun with some of my favorite probability games!