Algebra 1 - Madison School District #321

Madison High School
Math Department
Course Syllabus
(back)
Algebra I
Standards for Idaho: http://www.sde.idaho.gov/site/math/math_standards.htm
Course Description: This is generally the first course in the college preparatory mathematics
program. Algebra is essentially generalized arithmetic and is a direct extension at this level of
the mathematics program from the grade school. The concepts and content of Algebra I include
the use of variables representing known or unknown quantities. These variables are then used in
equations and inequalities to solve problems that would be more difficult without their use. In
addition, it is important for the student t o acquire some proficiency in the inductive process in
problem-solving, and the use of the calculator and computer as tools in problem-solving.
Rationale: Because of the very nature of algebra (using letters to represent numbers), students
are able to use calculators and computers to aid them in the process of problem-solving. It brings
a more thorough understanding of the rules and properties of the real numbers. Algebra I
satisfies two of the six credits of math that are required to be accepted into colleges and
universities.
Grade Level: 10, 11, 12
Course Length: Three trimesters
A. Students will demonstrate proficiency in working with real number operations
and variables.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Students will:
Simplify expressions using the correct order of operations.
List, define and recognize the nine fundamental properties of algebra.
Graph real numbers using the number line.
Use letters to represent real numbers (variables).
Evaluate an open expression given replacement values.
B. Students will solve, graph, and write linear equations and inequalities.
1.
2.
3.
Students will:
Use the four properties of equality.
Translate between grammatical and mathematical phrases and sentences.
Graph linear equations on the coordinate plane.
Standards
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4. Use the slope-intercept, point-slope, and slope formulas to write linear
equations and inequalities.
5.
Further develop the problem-solving skills learned in Pre-algebra.
C. Students will simplify and factor polynomials.
1.
2.
3
4.
Students will:
Use the order of operations and the nine fundamental properties of
algebra.
Factor out the greatest monomial.
Factor using the general monomial.
Factor using the difference of two squares and the perfect squares.
D. Students will solve quadratic equations.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Students will:
Use the square root method.
Use the factoring method.
Use the complete the square method.
Use the quadratic formula.
Use calculators.
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E. Students will simplify expressions and solve equations with exponents, radicals,
and irrational numbers.
1.
2.
3.
Students will:
Apply the rules of exponents and radicals.
Use radicals with the Pythagorean Theorem.
Use the distance formula.
F. Students will solve systems of linear equations.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Students will:
Graph a system of equations.
Solve a system by substitution and multiply/add methods.
Problem-solve using systems of equations and inequalities.
Graph a system of inequalities.
Standards
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