ALGEBRA 1

Upward Bound

Summer, 2008

Sara Donaldson

This class is designed to give the student an overview of Algebra 1. Emphasis is on main topics of algebra. “Mastery” of these topics is not possible in the time allowed for this summer course; however, the student will be introduced to these topics and will attain skills, which should prove to be very helpful when enrolled in a full Algebra 1 class. To attain and maintain proficiency in algebra, it is necessary to practice fundamental skills. The abstractions of algebra are applicable to all our thoughts – to the happy and to the frivolous as well as to the mundane and lifeless. A strong foundation in Pre-Algebra is required for the student to experience success in this class. This class is primarily designed for freshman and sophomores.

The major objectives of this class are to familiarize the student with certain topics of algebra that are traditionally taught in Algebra 1 and to allow the student to gain insight to the fact that algebra is a necessary tool for success in higher level mathematics and science classes. Students will also gain practice with computational skills without use of calculators or other technology. Strategies and techniques will be covered for solving problems involved in these topics. At the end of this class the student should be able to more easily succeed in a yearlong Algebra 1 class. These topics include the following: Real number operations and relationships; Algebraic expressions; Algebraic equations and inequalities in one variable; Linear relationships and functions; and Polynomials and factoring.

Students are expected to:

• Attend and participate in all class sessions;
• Complete all assignments;
• Participate in all tests and quizzes;
• Participate in pre, post, and final assessments.

Grading will be determined by class participation, homework scores, pop quizzes, and tests.

ALGEBRA 2

Upward Bound

Summer, 2008

Sara Donaldson

This class is designed to give the student an overview of Algebra 2, the final course in beginning algebra for all students. Emphasis is on main topics of algebra. “Mastery” of these topics is not possible in the time allowed for this summer course; however, the student will be introduced to these topics and will attain skills, which should prove to be very helpful when enrolled in a full Algebra 2 class. To attain and maintain proficiency in algebra, it is necessary to practice fundamental skills. The abstractions of algebra are applicable to all our thoughts – to the happy and to the frivolous as well as to the mundane and lifeless. A strong foundation in Algebra 1 is required for the student to experience success in this class. This class is primarily designed for sophomores and juniors.

The major objectives of this class are to familiarize the student with certain topics of algebra that are traditionally taught in Algebra 2 and to allow the student to gain insight to the fact that algebra is a necessary tool for success in higher level mathematics and science classes. Students will also gain practice with computational skills without use of calculators or other technology. Strategies and techniques will be covered for solving problems involved in these topics. At the end of this class the student should be able to more easily succeed in a yearlong Algebra 2 class. These topics include the following: Real number operations and relationships including complex numbers; Linear relationships and functions; Algebraic equations and inequalities including quadratic equations and systems of equations; and Polynomials and factoring.

Students are expected to:

• Attend and participate in all class sessions;
• Complete all assignments;
• Participate in all tests and quizzes;
• Participate in pre, post, and final assessments.

Grading will be determined by class participation, homework scores, pop quizzes, and tests.