Math 8/Algebra 1
Welcome!
I'm so glad I get to teach your child this year!
My name is Mrs. Harper, and this year I will be teaching Math 8 and Algebra 1. This website is designed to answer common questions you may have. I will continue to update it to provide more clarification throughout the year, so please check it every so often.
We will be using Google Classroom this year, so students need to join their class. They must sign in using their HISD email account. They cannot use their personal account.
Math 8:
P2- 8tw224c
P3- u3x9vs
R3- x29hdys
R4- j7qfr8
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Algebra 1:
P1- dik7dnn
R2- d95dd6
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Students must sign up for Remind. Parents, please join as well! Please use your first and last name so I can identify you.
Math 8: Text the code @b36b4cd to the number 81010.
Algebra 1: Text the code @6fbfc8 to the number 81010.
Course Descriptions
Pre-AP Math 8
In this course, we will use the first semester to build a solid foundation in writing and solving equations as well as using tables, graphs and equations to express linear relationships. In the second semester we will study geometry, measurement and personal financial literacy with an emphasis in all concepts on writing and solving equations to keep our skills fresh.
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Algebra 1
We will begin by refreshing our skills in writing and solving equations as well as beginning to solve more and more complex equations. Unit 2 will take us through an in-depth study of linear Algebra. In Unit 3, we will study rules of exponents, radicals, and exponential functions. Finally, our last unit will introduce quadratic functions.
FAQ
The Answers You Need
What supplies does my child need for class?
Every day your child must have at minimum, a mechanical pencil, a red pen, their math notebook, and their homework. At times I may require them to bring additional materials, but that will be communicated beforehand.
Why does my child need to bring AAA batteries?
Short answer: calculators. Students will be assigned a TI-84 Plus calculator that is for class use only. They require AAA batteries, and we go through them often because the calculators are used all day, every day.
Can my child borrow the school calculator for home use?
No, school calculators must stay at school. You may purchase a TI-84 Plus calculator for your child to use at home. You may even buy the newer version, the TI-Nspire. However, in class they will only use the classroom calculators. This is because student will use classroom calculators on tests, including the PSAT and STAAR Math tests. They need to be proficient in using the classroom calculators.
How is the Algebra class different than the IB Algebra class?
Both Algebra classes are advanced high school classes, and can earn high school credit. However, IB Algebra is taught at a much faster pace, and students are challenged even further.
How much homework will my child have from their Math class?
Our goal is that students have daily practice. However we understand that students have lives and want to spend more time with their family, just like we do. Homework should take no more than 1 hour to complete. We have, and will continue to make a conscience effort to give homework that is worth no more than 1 hour of work. If your child is spending more than that amount of time, please reach out and communicate that to me.
Where can my child access the textbook?
There are two different answers for Math 8 and Algebra classes.Â
Math 8: Students are given a physical, consumable textbook that should be taken home. They do not have to bring it to class.
Algebra 1: Students can access their textbook online via HISD Digital Resources. There is not a physical copy of the textbook, nor do I have one. They are only available online. I require students download all 4 Units as a PDF to their flash drive. That way they can access it without the internet and print specific pages as needed.
What can I do to support my child at home?
Please make sure that your child is completing their homework. If they require extra practice, Khan Academy and Imagine Math are great online resources your children have access to. Khan Academy videos can provide examples, and explain the content in another way.
When are tutorials?
Tutorials are by appointment only during Study Lab. Students may come during Study Lab provided they have gotten permission from their SLAB teacher and have made the appointment with me.
What is the process for High School Recommendations?
Students are first to come to me personally and ask if I would be willing to fill out a recommendation form in behalf of them. If I feel I can give a positive recommendation, then I will complete one. I will then need a hard copy of the form, along with stamped and addressed envelopes. Recommendation forms must be given to me well ahead of the due date. Last minute forms will be done last, and there is no guarantee they will be completed before the due date.
Can I retake a test or quiz?
There are not any retakes for quizzes. For tests, retakes will be offered for students who score below 70%Â (See Lanier Student Handbook). There will be two opportunities for students to retake the test if needed. Students must show up one of those two days, or they will keep the score they originally earned. Additional days will not be offered.
Do you accept late work?
As stated in the Lanier Student Handbook, located in the Student Planner on page 17, late work will be accepted up to 2 class periods from the due date. After 2 class periods, the late work will not be accepted. (See Student Planner for more detail.)
What Math STAAR will I take?
If you are in Math 8, you will take the Math 8 STAAR test. If you are in Algebra 1, you will take the Algebra STAAR EOC.
Algebra Parent Meeting
Thank you parents that attended the Algebra Parent Information Session. We received many comments about how helpful and informative the session was. We truly believe students success is in part due to parents and teachers working together to support kids.Â
For those who were unable to make it, the presentation has been added to this site! Click the button below to review. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Get in Touch
Text the following codes in the Remind App according to the Math level class your child is in:
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Math 8: Text the code @b36b4cd to the number 81010.
Algebra 1: Text the code @6fbfc8 to the number 81010.
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Please use your first and last name so I can identify you. Every student is required to join using these codes as well.
2600 Woodhead St
Houston, Harris County 77098
USA
713-942-1900