My expectations:
 

Unit Synopsis:  Unit 9 is about quadratic functions and their graphs (parabolas).  We begin with graphing and describing parabolas followed by the analytic methods of solving quadratic equations using square roots and later by quadratic formula.  Apologies for the sequence here: our district has mandated that the quadratic formula precede factoring and completing the square.  Don't ask me why...

This Week in Algebra: 

Schedule Key:  Gray is for past weeks. Aqua is for current and future weeks.

Parents: Yes, there is homework nearly every day, due the next day. Success always comes at a price:  There is a cost to your student, your student's teacher, and to you. All three costs are necessary and these costs are worth paying because your student is worth it.

Your child's success, just like growing up and developing good character, is your most important responsibility. How to help your child succeed in our class: 

1. Provide plenty of time and a place in your home for your child to do homework and to study free from distractions. If this means rearranging things or your schedule, by all means do it: the sacrifice is worth it.
2. Consistently have a high expectation for your child's academic progress. Don't accept sloppy work, slacking off, or excuses.  Compared to life's realities, nothing that your child is required to learn in high school is that unreasonable or that difficult.  Keep the big picture in mind:  together we are trying to develop your child's thinking skills and character.
3. Make sure that each day's assignment is finished that day.  As adults we are not permitted by our bosses to lag behind; our children should act responsibly just as we do.
4. Hold your child accountable:  ask her/him to show you the day's assignment and to explain it to you. We are accountable to our bosses, elders, landlords, pastors, mentors, and other leaders.  Children should be accountable to their parents or guardians at all times.
5. Know what your child is required to master. Parents cannot effectively guide children if they do not know what is happening in their lives. Of particular importance for our class is your awareness and your student's awareness of the California State Framework for Algebra.
6. If your child is having trouble, find out why. Provide, or require that he/she receives, the help that is needed. Children do not automatically know how to manage their time nor do they always know how to positively handle the difficulties they encounter.
7. Communicate with me (see below).

Communication: Contact me by e-mail or call me at (909) 988-5560 ext. 2434 if you have any concerns regarding your child's progress in Algebra, my teaching, or the course content.  I will respond within 24 hours.

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