Intro.

to Algebra_____________________________________________

Instructor: Randy Shank
Maryland School for the Deaf
Email: Randy.Shank@msd.edu
Room: 208

Text Books: Pre-Algebra by AGS / Algebra I by Prentice Hall

Course Objective: The course focuses on introductory algebra topics. It is designed to facilitate
students transition from the concrete concepts of arithmetic to the abstract concepts of algebra.

Class Policies and Procedures

I. Materials:
A. Pencils
B. Three-ring binder with dividers
C. Loose-leaf paper
D. Calculator

II. Student Responsibilities:
A. All students are responsible for bringing their textbook, pencil, calculator,
notebook, workbook, and paper to class everyday.
B. All students deserve an opportunity to learn in an attentive, educational
environment; therefore, disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
C. Each student should respect him/herself, surrounding students, the teacher,
and the classroom.
D. If a student is absent, it is the students responsibility to make up all missed
work. The student will have three days to complete all missed tests. The
student will have two days to make up all missed assignment if the absence
is unexcused or excused.
E. All pagers must be placed in the box before class starts. No electronic
equipment can be used during class unless otherwise directed by the teacher.


III. Grade Scale:
90-100 A
80-89 B
70-79 C
60-69 D
Lower than 60 F





Grading Percentage:
Homework 10%
Classwork 10%
The majority of learning takes place in the classroom. This category
includes in-class activities, in-class reading and writing assignments, and
group discussions. Distractions, interruptions, or lack of attention will
result in a lower grade.
Assessments 80% (includes quizzes-20%, tests-
30%, and final exam-30%).
Total 100%



IV. Tutoring:
A. I am available for extra help on most days from 2:50 to 3:45 p.m.
B. Please let me know if you have questions so I can provide help.
C. Make an appointment AS SOON as you determine that you are having
difficulties. Do not wait until the day before a test to get help.

V. Make-up Work:
A. All tests will be announced at least two days in advance. Every effort should
be made to attend class on test days.
B. If you have an excused absence on a test day, you have three school days to
make up the tests. It is your responsibility to make an appointment to make
up the test.
C. An unexcused absence, or failure to make up work within three school days,
will result in a grade of zero for that test, quiz, or homework.

Defiance will result in a warning, a student conference, possible lunch detention, and parental
notification. Should defiance continue three times despite warnings, student conferences, and
parental notifications, the student will be dismissed to the Student Support Center.

Students Pledge: I have read the Pre-Algebra course syllabus, and agree to these
requirements and expectations.

Signed _________________________ Date: __________

Parental/Guardian signature: I have read the Pre-Algebra course syllabus, and agree to
these requirements and expectations.

Signed _________________________ Date: __________