Description
The goal of this course is to prepare students for a high school-level algebra course. Emphasis is placed on the interconnectivity of topics and on the continual review of previous topics in this and previous courses. This course interweaves new content with review, all the while demonstrating connections between abstract mathematics and real-life situations. Students will learn through a variety of activities and by using tools such as a dynamic geometry system or a graphing calculator, preparing them for future work in high school and beyond.
All students should apply by completing the Course Readiness Application before registering.
Prerequisite:
Successful completion of 6th-grade math and instructor approval are required. Students must complete the application linked above and be approved before registering. Incoming students should have a good understanding of arithmetic operations, fractions, and decimals.
Course Structure
This class meets twice a week for 55 minutes. Students should expect to spend about 5 hours per week on this course. Homework is assigned in both online and pencil-and-paper formats. Answer keys for the textbook homework problems are provided to help students assess their understanding of the material, and each class includes time to discuss the textbook problems. Therefore, it will be essential that students attend class, take notes, work through teacher-guided examples, and complete homework in a timely manner to develop a solid understanding of the material and stay on pace with the course.
All classes will be recorded, so that if a student misses a class or wants to rewatch a lesson, a video will be available for viewing. There is also an optional, highly recommended math lab course for this class, designed to help students who need additional support or accountability in completing homework. Please see the Pre-Algebra Math Lab page for more details and to register.
Who should enroll?
Please note that instructor approval is required. Students in grades 7-9 who meet the following criteria and prerequisites may apply.
Successful completion of 6th-grade math is necessary, and students must complete an application and be approved before registering. Incoming students should have a good understanding of arithmetic operations, fractions, and decimals.
Technology Requirements
- High-speed, broadband Internet
- Web cam, sound card, and microphone (for live sessions)
- Streaming video capabilities to watch recorded lectures
- Scanner or smartphone for submitting tests and homework
Evaluation and Feedback
From each chapter covered in the course, student grades will include homework from each lesson, 1-2 quizzes, and an exam. Submitted student work will be graded and returned within one week of the due dates. Outside of class hours, students may contact the teacher with any questions or concerns via Canvas messages.
Communication
Parents are encouraged to monitor grades in Canvas and may contact me through Canvas messages on the course website. I welcome communication with parents as we work together to provide for their students’ learning.
Jennifer B. –
Michele is an excellent math teacher! Both of my girls have taking classes with her in multiple subjects. She is thorough and very patient. She takes the time to make sure the student really understands the concept before moving forward. Highly, highly recommend!