Algebra A/B 2017-18 FAQ’s

How is Algebra in MCS different from a traditional Algebra course? Curriculum is the same 4 modules Mastery is the goal

Why is the course set up this way? Algebra is an anchor course Skills needed for all other math classes More customizable for each student

How long will it take to finish the course? Any of the three lengths are possible: 18 weeks (1 semester) 27 weeks (1 semester and 9 weeks) 36 weeks (year long)

How is the course split into Algebra A and Algebra B? Algebra A = Modules A and B Algebra B = Modules C and D

What credits are earned? Finish in 1 semester = 1 credit for Algebra Finish in more than 1 semester = 2 credits, one for Algebra A and one for Algebra B

How many teachers are there? Each student could have 5 teachers Rotation every 4.5 weeks Most students will have a variety of those 5 teachers

What are unit tests? Taken throughout each Module at the end of a Unit Broken into indicators  75% is mastery level All indicators must be mastered to move to the next module In addition to the unit tests, there will be a cumulative test at the end of the module. Students must pass this test to move on.

What happens if mastery is not reached on the mastery tests? Good news! – 2 retakes Better news! – only retake the indicators that are not mastered. If mastery level is not reached by the end of the module students will redo all indicators in the module

How do students know if they move on or redo? Teachers will monitor and communicate Meetings with students to monitor progress After last mastery test students will move on or redo Students will monitor and communicate Stay in touch with teacher Monitoring sheet to track progress

What is different when a module is redone? Teacher has important data Focus will be on specific indicators More small group Hands-on activities

How do Final Exams work? IF: Finish all 4 modules in 1 semester THEN: Cumulative Final IF: Any modules redone THEN: 1st semester final over Mods A and B, Mods C and D final when complete

How does my student get extra help? Set times for tutoring by the team. Contact the teachers to set up a time Time for help set into each day Math tutoring during Patriot Path

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Questions?? If we do not get to your question tonight, please email one of the members of the Algebra 1 Team. Ryan Dennis – rdennis@madisoncity.k12.al.us Donna McCarley – drmccarley@madisoncity.k12.al.us Jenny Jarrett – jbjarrett@madisoncity.k12.al.us Michelle Mitchell – mmitchell@madisoncity.k12.al.us Jared Smith – jasmith@madisoncity.k12.al.us