When students understand the conceptual foundations of Algebra, learning problems and formulas becomes logical and students tend to progress at a faster pace with greater confidence.  This course provides an in-depth overview of key foundational concepts needed to be successful in Algebra. It is designed as a preparation course for students entering Algebra I, or as a review for students preparing to enter Algebra 2.  The class meets for eight 45 minute sessions over 2 weeks.  This boot camp teaches a strong understanding of Algebra I concepts and will prepare students for success in the full course.  We will focus on the “why” of equations, formulas, and properties, as well as spend time “proving” formulas and properties.  

WEEK 1 - 

Session 1 - THE LANGUAGE OF ALGEBRA
Learning Algebra is similar to learning a foreign language with new words, ideas and patterns.  In this first session students will get an overview of algebra, including what it is used for and why they are learning it.  We will also discuss algebraic equations and the rules that govern them. 

Session 2 - SOLVING EQUATIONS
This session will focus on solving equations using rules, techniques, and applications.  Students will solve complex algebraic equations in class in order to apply what was learned and build confidence.   At the end of this session, students will write their own equation and we will solve them together in class.  

Session 3 - LINEAR EQUATIONS
In session 3, students will learn the history of the Cartesian Coordinate Plane and be introduced to linear equations.  We will use real life examples (in the form of word problems) to help create and graph linear equations.  

Session 4 - SLOPE-INTERCEPT FORM
Session 4 will continue teaching the concept of linear equations by introducing slope and the slope-intercept form of a line.  Students will learn how geometry and algebra are related through lecture and practical, hands-on experience

WEEK 2 - 
Session 5 - SYSTEMS OF EQUATIONS
After a review of week 1, students will learn about systems of equations, where and when to use them, and how to solve them.  Systems of equations are often found in complex word problems students are expected to learn and know in Algebra and beyond. Finally, students will be asked to practice solving Systems of Equations independently and as a group.  

Session 6 - EQUATIONS AND WORD PROBLEMS
In this session, we will review the rules for solving Systems of Equations and begin applying what we learned to solving more complex algebraic word problems.  This is typically a fun session for students. It also helps build confidence as students realize they can take a complex word problem, break it down, and solve it!

Session 7 - ADDING AND MULTIPLYING POLYNOMIALS
In this session, Polynomials will be explained along with the rules for multiplying them.  Students will have an opportunity to apply what they have learned and practice solving problems independently and as a group.

Session 8 - FACTORING POLYNOMIALS AND THE QUADRATIC FORMULA
In this final session, students will factor polynomials and be introduced to the quadratic formula.  Their final task will be to “prove” and recreate the quadratic formula as the early math pioneers once did!  

Finally, in this last session, students will be given a certificate of completion for the "Algebra 1 Concepts - A Summer Boot Camp" and will be officially prepared to succeed in their semester or full year Algebra 1 course!