Algebra I is the beginning of the study of higher mathematics.  Algebra is a branch of mathematics that uses mathematical statements to describe relationships between things, both real and abstract. For the high school student, this course is very important because it is a "gateway" to higher level courses in mathematics and science and because passing this course is necessary for graduation.  All topics in Algebra I are aligned (educators love that word these days) to the California State Framework for Algebra. 

Our district no longer requires algebra I instruction to follow the Mastery Mathematics model.  New for this year is a graduated method of assessing student progress against the state standards using what will surely come to be known as "scales."  Scales will be familiar to language arts students and teachers as a modification of the the "rubric" concept wherein student progress is measured and scaled according to the degree that they master a given concept.  Grades will be determined as prescribed in the course syllabus, but the scales will be used to inform students of their progress toward mastery of the standards.

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Click on the link below for current class information, assignments, pictures from class activities, and selected notes from class.

Current Information Updated 18 February 2012

California State Framework for Algebra  Updated 13 September 2009

Instructor is  Tom James.  E-mail your comments: 

If you are interested, here is a short bio about Mr. James.

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