Mr. Heckmann’s Advanced Algebra 1

Information for Students & Parents

This information is intended for students and parents for quick reference regarding their child’s mathematics class. Mr. Heckmann’s home phone number is 724-935-3598. ALL STUDENTS ARE INVITED TO USE THIS NUMBER WHEN AND IF NECESSARY.

Contacting Mr. Heckmann: Parents are encouraged to either contact me at my home phone or email me at sheckmann@northallegheny.org.

Course philosophy.—Advanced Algebra 1 is a course offered for students who have demonstrated proficiency and a high level of success in past mathematics courses. The level of difficulty of homework and assessments is advanced as compared to that of Academic Algebra. The pace of the material presented is typically faster and the depth to which concepts may be explored is more extensive as compared to that of Academic Algebra

Grading procedures & practices:

Tests are always announced approximately 1 week (or longer) in advance of the anticipated test date. Test questions are valued at 3-4 or more points depending on the nature and difficulty of the topic/question.

Quizzes may or may not be announced. Quizzes are used as a method of insuring the integrity and quality of student effort put forth in homework and class. Quiz questions vary from 2-3 points each in value,

Homework philosophy: Homework is intended to help the student review and retain information and concepts covered in class each day. It is an essential practice that leads to success if done with a reasonable amount of effort. In almost every case, an answer only is not enough, even if a calculator is used to assist!!! The standard is to re-copy the original problem and show, through a series of steps (as modeled in class early in the year) If a student cannot complete the problem, it is essential to see a “trail of their thoughts and practices” through the partial sequence of each problem. Homework value begins at 3 points per homework, turned in on the due date (most often the next day that class meets) and may vary during the year, based on the nature of the assignment. Over the course of the year, the value of homework will be diminished for “points sake” in order to transition the student to standard high school practices. No late homework is accepted unless in the case of legitimate absence. (Please see below)

Final grades for the course will be calculated on a “Total Points” basis.

Absences: Because each class assignment is highly dependent upon the daily discussion, students and parents can access daily assignments at the my web page If a student is absent, (s)he is expected to gain insight to the day’s discussion by doing one or more of the following:

1. Check the course website to view their individual class assignment.

2. Review basic concepts of the day’s lesson by

a. reading the appropriate section in the text or

b. access the online textbook at www.classzone.com

c. review through the mini lesson as presented on course @Home tutor software given to students

d. access the appropriate Powerpoint presentation through www.classzone.com

3. Call Mr. Heckmann at home to discuss the day’s work.

Class absence due to early dismissals, athletic events, field trips, other academic obligations or approved absences: While I am an advocate of a well rounded education that includes both other disciplines and athletics, each student has an obligation to my course with equal priority. Acknowledging this, an absence from class due to any reason other than sickness or a documented family emergency places the following responsibility on the student:

At MMS, homework should be turned in, IN PERSON and checked for accuracy by the student during morning homeroom period before the planned absence. (At CMS, students should place their assignment in the “IN TRAY” on my desk. An answer key will be placed next to the IN TRAY in order that students may check answers to gain insight as to success.)

Calendars: EVERY student has an assignment calendar detailing anticipated homework assignments for the current month. The calendar is also available online at my website. Individual classes daily assignments will be revised and posted DAILY at my website after class.

Calculator: The North Allegheny mathematics department has taught to the standard of using Texas Instruments calculators. Students should acquire a minimum of a T.I.30-IIXS model to use in the course. This calculator usually retails between $12 & $15 at most office and discount retailers. It is recommended that one be secured for home use and one for use in school.(This calculator would suffice for this year only). If affordable, students are encouraged to purchase a graphing calculator and indelibly mark it with their name. A TI-83 or TI-84 model is recommended. Prices vary between $70 - $130 depending upon the model and retailer. The graphing calculator will address student needs until a student is enrolled in a Calculus course and is also used, beginning in Algebra 1.

Extra Credit Guidelines: Extra credit is available to students periodically throughout a nine weeks as offered, either through an online activity or extra credit question or activity as part of a test or class. It has been my experience that students who typically spend their time and effort wisely throughout the 9 weeks generally have enough credit to maintain a positive grade. Extra credit should be considered as an opportunity to enhance a grade which is boarder line; not save a grade that is deficient.

Parent Signature___________________________________(Acknowledge of review of above syllabus)