Algebra 1
2025–2026 Academic Year
Instructor: Sterling Merritt
Email: [email protected]
Class Schedule: Mondays and Wednesdays, 2:00–3:25 PM (Central Time)
Zoom Meeting ID: Emailed upon request
Course Description:
This course prepares students for success in high school mathematics by building a strong foundation in essential algebraic concepts. Topics include integers, fractions, decimals, ratios, proportions, order of operations, introduction to algebraic expressions, linear equations, graphing, and introductory geometry. Students will develop problem-solving skills and mathematical reasoning through hands-on activities, real-world applications, and collaborative projects.
Guided by a biblical worldview, this course emphasizes the order and logic inherent in mathematics as a reflection of God’s perfect design. Students will be encouraged to see math not only as a tool for understanding the world but also as a way to develop discipline, stewardship, and critical thinking skills that can be used to serve others and glorify God.
This course provides a thorough overview of first-year high school algebra. Students will learn the concept of an expression and how to manipulate it in order to solve for a variable quantity in real-world situations.
Course Objectives:
This course is designed to prepare students for subsequent courses in Geometry and Algebra 2. Students will move from concrete numerical thinking to abstract algebraic thinking involving one or more variables.
Students will become proficient in evaluating expressions, solving for unknowns, and applying algebraic reasoning to various problem types. This course fulfills the high school Algebra 1 requirement.
Required Materials:
Curriculum: Thinkwell Homeschool Algebra 1 Online Program — One-year subscription ($149)
Companion Books: Thinkwell Homeschool Algebra 1 Companion Books, Volume 1 & 2 ($49.99 each)
www.thinkwellhomeschool.comScientific calculator (TI-30 IIx or TI-30Xa recommended)
Graph paper
Spiral-bound notebook with lined or graph paper
1½ inch 3-ring binder
Grading Breakdown:
Homework: 30%
Quizzes: 10%
Tests: 40%
Midterm Exam: 10%
Final Exam: 10%
Classroom Expectations:
Attendance: Log in 5 minutes early using full name.
Participation: Video must remain on, with the student’s face clearly visible. Use chat unless called on to unmute.
Preparation: Be seated with all materials and completed homework ready.
Engagement: Homework must be submitted on time. Class is interactive, with students expected to present and discuss solutions regularly.
Homework Policy:
Homework is a vital part of learning. It gives students the chance to apply new concepts and build confidence. All assignments must be submitted before the following class. Consistent homework completion is key to success and a smooth class experience.
Additional Resources:
Thinkwell’s platform includes: video lessons, online exercises, quizzes, downloadable notes, practice tests, and assessments.
A reliable internet connection and quiet study space are required.
Course Schedule / Syllabus:
This course runs for 32 weeks.
(Note: “Assessments” refer to unit tests)
Weeks 1–4:
Language of Variables and Expressions
Real Number Operations
Tools of Algebra
Exponents, Square Roots, Real Numbers
Weeks 5–8:
Assessment
Solving Equations
Proportion and Percent
Percent Increase/Decrease
Weeks 9–11:
Assessment
Inequalities
Graphing and Solving Inequalities
Multi-Step and Compound Inequalities
Weeks 12–14:
Assessment
Introduction to Functions
Applying Functions
Weeks 15–18:
Assessment
Linear Functions
Slope-Intercept and Point-Slope Form
Assessment
Weeks 19–21:
Midterm Assessment
Systems of Linear Equations
Linear Inequalities
Assessment
Weeks 22–25:
Exponents and Properties
Polynomials
Scientific Notation
Assessment
Weeks 26–28:
Factoring (GCF, Trinomials, Special Products)
Applying Factoring
Assessment
Quadratic Functions
Weeks 29–32:
Solving Quadratics: Completing the Square, Quadratic Formula
Discriminant
Probability & Data Analysis
Final Exam