Welcome to Back to School Night! Mr. Hergenhan Mrs. Hatala Algebra 1

Course Description “The focus of Algebra I is the properties and uses of linear equations including graphs and related inequalities. Algebraic symbolism is used to study and explore properties of the real numbers, operations on real numbers, and systems of equations. Related concepts such as quadratic expressions and geometric applications are introduced. There is an emphasis on solving problems using mathematics.”

Goals  Enhance student critical thinking processes  Instead of “what is the answer”, consider: What is the question asking me? What information do I already have? What information will I need?  Develop math as a tool for real-world applications, not just formulae  When will knowing the formula for slope ever help me in the real world?

Objectives  Units of study include:  Solving Equations and Inequalities  Linear and Quadratic Functions  Linear Systems  Exponents and Exponential Functions  Polynomials and Factoring  Rational and Radical Equations  Data Analysis and Probability

Expectations  RESPECT  Preparation  Responsibility  Tolerance  This extends to asking questions in class  Humility  And of course, no cell phones in class!

Grading Policy -- Overview  Homework (15%)  Completion – Homeworks checked by the teacher in class will be worth 15 points  Correctness – Homeworks that are collected will be worth 30 points*  Participation (5%)  Every student starts the year with a 100 in participation; points can be taken away for a failure to participate in class activities

Grading Policy -- Continued  Quizzes (20%)  Generally given about once a week  Tests (30%)  Only about two per marking period  Classwork (30%)  Exit tickets, worksheets, etc.

PowerSchool Students’ grades can be checked via PowerSchool Grades will updated within a week of the assignment due date, so you can see grades updating in real time Any questions? Contact the guidance department

Remind “Remind” is a text message based system for posting homework Students sign up to Remind by sending a specific text to a pre-set number (see handout) Standard data and text messaging rates apply

So, who’s this guy?  Michael Hergenhan  First year at SPFHS  Fourth year as HS teacher  Several years as math teacher at college level  Lifelong area resident  Mostly in Linden  Undergraduate: Yale  B.A. in Chemistry  Graduate: Montclair  M.S. in Math Education

Contact Information Address: Phone Number: (908) x3798 Teacher Website:

Questions? I can take GENERAL questions tonight about the material, the subject, state testing, etc. If you have SPECIFIC questions about your child’s grades / progress / behavior, I ask that you me directly or set up a conference through the school’s guidance department.