Foundations in Algebra

Algebra 1 is the backbone of high school mathematics and prepares students for success in all subsequent mathematics courses.  Therefore, it is crucial that all students are successful in Algebra 1.  As a result, one pathway offered to South Carolina students includes a two-course integrated sequence that should be offered to students who may need additional support in order to be successful in Algebra 1.  Foundations in Algebra is the first course in this two-course integrated sequence designed to prepare students for college and career readiness by providing a foundation in algebra, probability, and statistics.   

This course builds on the conceptual knowledge and skills students mastered in earlier grades in areas such as algebraic thinking, probability, data analysis, and proportional reasoning.  Students who complete this two course integrated sequence will be given the opportunity to master several standards from Algebra 2 and Probability and Statistics in addition to all of the standards from Algebra 1.  

In this course, students are expected to apply mathematics in meaningful ways to solve problems that arise in the workplace, society, and everyday life through the process of modeling.  Mathematical modeling involves creating appropriate equations, graphs, functions, or other mathematical representations to analyze real-world situations and answer questions.  Use of technological tools, such as hand-held graphing calculators, is important in creating and analyzing mathematical representations used in the modeling process and should be used during instruction and assessment.  However, technology should not be limited to hand-held graphing calculators.  Students should use a variety of technologies, such as graphing utilities, spreadsheets, and computer algebra systems, to solve problems and to master standards in all Key Concepts of this course.