Algebra HSA Prep Course
Instructor: Ms. Sarah Welker
Email: [email protected] Phone: (240)-236-6400 Tuscarora High School Frederick, Maryland |
Course Overview
This course has been created to help students prepare to take the Algebra High School Assessment for Maryland. Instructional content has been designed specifically for students who have passed the Algebra 1 Course in school, but have yet to be successful on the HSA. While there will be some overview of the Algebra concepts, much of this course will be focused on specific test taking strategies and tools.
Goals/Objectives - What is the purpose?
The main focus on the course is to provide students the knowledge, skills, and strategies needed to pass the Algebra HSA test. Students will also spend a significant time reflecting on their own learning, which is a practice that students can also benefit from.
Resources - What do I need?
To complete this course, students will need:
IMPORTANT: If any you need help attaining any of these resources, please contact me ASAP so we can figure out a plan.
- Reliable internet access
- A gmail email account
- A TI 83/84 graphing calculator
IMPORTANT: If any you need help attaining any of these resources, please contact me ASAP so we can figure out a plan.
Modules/Activities - What will I do?
There are self-paced 5 modules in this course. They should all be completed (in order) prior to taking the Algebra High School Assessment. Each module includes a combination of internet resources, videos, interactive slideshows, and self-quizzes to help students complete each module. To "Master" each module and move on to the next, students will need to score at least an 80% on the Module Exam.
Orientation Module
Introduce students to the course sites, google docs, and basic web skills.
Module 1: Master the Skills
Reviews basic algebra skills such as solving equations and graphing.
Module 2: Master the Content
Reviews all of the vocabulary and concepts from the Algebra 1 course.
Module 3: Master the Calculator
Reviews and presents uses for the graphing calculator on the HSA.
Module 4: Master the Question
Provides testing strategies and tools for approaching HSA questions.
Module 5: Master the Test
Provides opportunities to practice real HSA questions and reflect.
Note: This webpage provides the content, however students should be using the Canvas site to log in, view grades, post assignments, and track progress.
Orientation Module
Introduce students to the course sites, google docs, and basic web skills.
Module 1: Master the Skills
Reviews basic algebra skills such as solving equations and graphing.
Module 2: Master the Content
Reviews all of the vocabulary and concepts from the Algebra 1 course.
Module 3: Master the Calculator
Reviews and presents uses for the graphing calculator on the HSA.
Module 4: Master the Question
Provides testing strategies and tools for approaching HSA questions.
Module 5: Master the Test
Provides opportunities to practice real HSA questions and reflect.
Note: This webpage provides the content, however students should be using the Canvas site to log in, view grades, post assignments, and track progress.
Schedule - HOw long will it take?
The nice part about this course is that it can be completed at a pace determined by the student. Unlike traditional classes, students will not be interacting with each other and moving through the course together. This course is designed to meet the needs of various learners, and allow students to work through at a pace that is appropriate.
Now, this doesn't mean that there is NO deadline or timeline. The HSA exam (October, January, or May) will be the ultimate deadline for the course. Students can begin enrolling up to 6 weeks prior to an upcoming test, or start as late as 1 week before.
Depending on the student, each module should be able to to be completed between 4 and 8 hours. With 5 modules, and an Orientation Module, the total course could be completed anywhere between 22 and 40 hours. During the Orientation Module, each student will create a course timeline to help keep them on track.
Now, this doesn't mean that there is NO deadline or timeline. The HSA exam (October, January, or May) will be the ultimate deadline for the course. Students can begin enrolling up to 6 weeks prior to an upcoming test, or start as late as 1 week before.
Depending on the student, each module should be able to to be completed between 4 and 8 hours. With 5 modules, and an Orientation Module, the total course could be completed anywhere between 22 and 40 hours. During the Orientation Module, each student will create a course timeline to help keep them on track.
Assessments - How am I graded?
This course is graded, and students can track their progress in the Canvas site. However, since students have to score at least an 80% on the end of Module exam, most students will finish the course with no lower than a B.
At this point, there is no credit assigned to this course, as it is strictly used for remediation purposes. A final grade report will be sent home to parents to let me know you have successfully completed the course. Remember, the real goal is the pass the HSA, and this course is designed to make sure you do!
A BONUS! Since you will not be reciveeing any credit for this course, the school system has agreed to offer a free online course waiver to any students who earn a B or better in this class. Instead of having to pay $200 to take a course in the summer, you will be able to register for any course you want to take for free!
At this point, there is no credit assigned to this course, as it is strictly used for remediation purposes. A final grade report will be sent home to parents to let me know you have successfully completed the course. Remember, the real goal is the pass the HSA, and this course is designed to make sure you do!
A BONUS! Since you will not be reciveeing any credit for this course, the school system has agreed to offer a free online course waiver to any students who earn a B or better in this class. Instead of having to pay $200 to take a course in the summer, you will be able to register for any course you want to take for free!
Expectations - What is expected from me?
Communication is KEY in online learning. As the teacher, I am dedicated to providing you with prompt and personalized feedback. I want to help YOU make it through this course and pass the HSA.
What I need from you:
Although you are learning online, it does NOT mean you are learning alone! I am looking forward to working with each and every student who takes this course. Please understand that I want you to be successful in this course and the more you put into it, the more you will get out of it! :)
What I need from you:
- Log on regularly
- Check/reply to your messages in the Canvas Site
- Ask questions when you are confused
Although you are learning online, it does NOT mean you are learning alone! I am looking forward to working with each and every student who takes this course. Please understand that I want you to be successful in this course and the more you put into it, the more you will get out of it! :)