Course Outline and Objectives

Course Outline and Objectives

Class: ALGEBRA I

Primary Text: Saxon Algebra I 3rd Edition

Publisher: Saxon

Required Textbook:

Student Book Kit (includes student book, tests, and answer key without problems worked out) Cost: $70 range ISBN: 9781565771239

Optional:

Saxon Teacher (“DIVE”) CD (a CD-ROM which includes 10-15 minute lesson explanation each day plus every problem worked out) Cost $90 range ISBN: 9781602773653

Solutions Manual: (all problems worked out with steps shown) Cost $30 Range ISBN: 9781565771376

The CD allows for more in-depth explanations of mathematical concepts when not in class. If your student is good at understanding math and good at self-teaching, then this CD would not be as necessary.
(Bundles will be available at registration at discounted prices.)

Where Available: Online or at Solid Rock

Other books/materials, etc. required for class:

Graph paper, calculator (a graphing calculator would be beneficial but not required), and ruler.

***Parents are responsible for getting all texts and materials unless teacher specifies otherwise.

Yearly Tuition: $304

Copy/Lab Fees: $15

With this tuition rate, I must have a minimum of 6 and maximum of 12 students.

Overview of class:
I have two objectives for this class:

The first objective would be to develop a high level of competency in foundational algebra, leaving students well-prepared for algebra II and Geometry, as well as being ultimately ready for entry level college math (pre-calculus or calculus). This is a college preparatory course. Towards this end, I will be supplementing the regular curriculum with practice questions from the ACT and SAT to ensure the students are familiar with all foundational algebra material they could expect to see on the tests, as well as help them to be comfortable with the format of the math questions on the standardized entrance exams.

My second objective for the class would be to help foster an interest and enjoyment in math on the part of the students. While unfortunately often times viewed as the most dull (and difficult) subject, the field of math is in itself an incredible testimony to the orderly nature of our God and a crucial part of the beauty He created for us to enjoy. I had the pleasure of having a couple of teachers who opened my eyes to the incredible beauty in math, and instilled in me a confidence that I could do math, and my goal would be to pass down that same knowledge and confidence to my students.

There will be a quiz at the beginning of each class with problems based on the concepts learned the previous week. The format of these questions will be a combination of both longer, fully worked out problems and directly related actual ACT/SAT questions. Students will then be instructed on the material for the following week’s assignments. If additional explanation of the concepts is needed it can be gained through the Teacher CD or by contacting me. Tests will be given at home (proctored by the parent) and turned in to me to be graded. An in-class midterm and final will be given as well.

Grade is based on 1/3 homework, 1/3 daily in-class quizzes and 1/3 test grades.

Prerequisites for this class: Pre-Algebra at RTA with a grade of “A” or “B” or take a pre-test to make sure they are ready for the class.

Recommended Grade Level(s) for this class: 8th -10th

Estimated Difficulty Level of course for average student:

Above average

Average study time for this class will be approximately 5-10 hours per week.

Tutor Expectations for Parents: Parents will be required to oversee, help with and grade daily work on a daily basis. It is very important that problems missed be reworked correctly.

Since the year builds from day one, it is important that each day’s material is mastered before going on the next day. Because it takes time for the concepts to “sink in”, it is important to do the work daily and not in one or two sittings.

Additional comments: This class will require a high level of a commitment from the students as well as the parents. This is a multi-faceted curriculum that works very best when parents are able to provide help and also monitor the work DAILY.
Because this is a very fast-paced class, students may need additional tutoring outside of class time. It is the responsibility of the parent to supply that help for the student.

I am available for additional tutoring outside of class if needed for an hourly rate.

***(Parents: You are invited to attend the class and are always welcome. This will help you understand so you will be better equipped to answer your student’s questions during the week.)

Feel free to call me if you have questions at 615-653-6816 or e-mail at matthew.bullington@yahoo.com.