Life is a school of probability.
Quoted in J. R. Newman (ed.) The World of Mathematics, Simon and Schuster, New York, 1956, p. 1360. Quote by: Walter Bagehot

  Science Fair

Welcome to Mrs. Ford Math Page

"The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious.  It is
the source of all art and science."  Einstein

Click here to go to the Fords' Science Page
 

Dear Parents & Students
 

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you and your child to Algebra AB.  This course was established to fit the Mira Costa Math Department Masterplan.  It was felt by the high school that a two-year algebra program would better meet the needs of most middle school students. The course which follows this one is Algebra CD.  It can be taken either in the summer, or as a Freshman course.  Algebra AB will utilize the new McDougal Littel text, Algebra I: Structure and Method.  It is an extremely rigorous text, consisting of 13 chapters.  This year will will thoroughly explore chapters 1 - 7.  Algebra CD will complete remaining 6 chapters.  We plan to present the material with great depth and complexity, and expect the students to have a strong understanding of the algebra fundamentals we present.  The topics we will cover include:

Variables and Equations
Properties of real numbers
Setting up and solving equations
Polynomials
Factoring
Algebraic Fractions
Applying Algebraic Fractions
Each area will include a strong, challenging word problem segment.

I am looking forward to working with you and your son/daughter throughout the school year. Below you will find an outline of classroom expectations. I hope this will answer some of your questions.   Should you have questions or concerns about the two -year algebra program, you may wish to address those questions to Educational Services, or contact the high school.  Unfortunately, the 2002 Math Curriculum lead who facilitated the development of this course, and is most knowledgable about the efficacy of the 2 year program, Ms. Greta Thompson, has accepted a position with the Palos Verdes Unified School District.

  1. Materials: One spiral notebook (without perforated pages), one portfolio folder with metal page holders, number two pencils and the required math book.
  2. Course Requirements: Students should demonstrate competency in the course curriculum in the following areas: solving one and two step complex equations, solving inequalities, graphing equations, polynomials, factoring, word problems, slope and statistics.
  3. Methods of Assessment: Homework will be assigned Monday -Thursday nights, quizzes will be given once a week, tests will be given at the end of each chapter, projects will be assigned as appropriate, and class participation.
  4. Classwork/Homework: Classwork assigned will be completed as homework and will be checked the following day.
  5. Make-Up Work: Students who are absent should call a study buddy for the missed assignment. Adequate time will be given to complete the classwork/homework. If a student plans to be absent for a period of time, please contact me to get work he/she will be missing.
  6. Test Corrections: if a students misses three or more questions n a test or quiz, he/she is encouraged to write a correction letter. If your son/daughter attended MBMS for sixth and/or seventh grade, he/she will already be familiar with this process. A detailed explanation will be given to the students in class. This letter is a way for your child to earn extra credit points.
  7. Parent Support: Patents are welcome to contact me regarding any questions or concerns. Please email me at sford@manhattan.k12.ca.us or leave a voice mail at (310) 545-4878 ext 3303

Your child will be required to write down all assignments in his/her student's planner. Please check your child's planners on a nightly basis to be sure assignments are being written down and completed.
 
 

TIPS TO HELP WITH ALGEBRA GRADE

  1. Write problems out showing all steps.
  2. Write problems large and leave space
  3. Compare answers, checking in the back of the book for selected answers.
  4. Work with a friend on homework.
  5. In class, ask for help.
  6. Re-Write notes.
  7. Re-read notes.
  8. Make up extra problems.
  9. Make flashcards showing steps
  10. Ask for help from a parent or sibling.
  11. See a tutor when feeling overwhelmed
  12. Pay close attention in class
  13. Ask questions and participate in class
  14. Take careful notes
  15. Highlight important parts of your notes
  16. Re-do problems missed, or ones with which you had difficulty
  17. When in doubt, ALWAYS ASK YOUR TEACHER
  18. Look over homework because often those items will appear on the test.
  19. Teach a concept or strategy to another person
  20. Do homework problems not assigned
  21. Even if you finish the homework in class, go over a few problems at night to refresh your memory.