Before taking this course, students should be comfortable working with positive and negative integers, simple equations, combining like terms, and simple functions.  If the student has taken a pre-algebra course or its equivalent, they will be prepared to take this class.  

Algebra 1 is the foundation to prepare for future high school math classes and should be taken with the intention to learn.   Material will be presented through exploring concepts and discovering relationships between mathematical concepts.  There will be examples, practice and exploration.  Students will be given an example or exploration activity, then will work with the instructor to understand problems then they will solve problems on their own or as a group.  We will also be learning to use technology such as a calculator.  A graphing calculator such as a TI-84 or an online graphing calculator is recommended as the learning curve for a graphing calculator can be steep.   If not available we will also use the online Desmos Calculator.  

Although assignments will be given, you will be expected to self-check using a key.  Assignments are practice that allow you to be able to know enough to ask questions.  Each week, there will be a weekly knowledge check or quiz, this allows me to see what you are struggling with and also to justify a grade if necessary.  You will be allowed to correct answers, these should eventually become something that is fairly stress-free and rather than feeling judged, it will be a way of learning and understanding how you learn.   Showing up to class and participating in Desmos lessons as well as participating in a method you are comfortable with, will also help determine a grade.  My plan is to help you feel confident trying and fixing something if you make a mistake.

Week 1: Algebraic expressions and the real number system
Week 2: Integers, the Distributive Property and Equations
Week 3: Using Properties of Equalities to solve Algebraic and Literal Equations
Week 4: Polynomial Expressions
Week 5: Polynomial and Monomial division using Laws of Exponents
Week 6:  Multiplying Binomials
Week 7: Proportions
Week 8: Inequalities: Expressions and Equations
Week 9: Absolute Value Equations
Week 10: Functions and Relations
Week 11: Arithmatic Sequences and Linear Equations
Week 12: Linear Equations
Week 13: Graphing Scatter Plots and Absolute Value Graphs
Week 14: Using Algebra and Review

Math is a journey to understanding, it's important to practice through assignments and learn from assessments.   As a teacher I hope to foster a comfortable environment to learn.