Algebra I Course Description : Algebra I begins the study of functions. Functions represent the systematic dependence of one quantity on another. Students use functions to represent and model problem situations and to analyze and interpret relationships. Students work in many situations to set up equations and inequalities and use a variety of methods to solve them. A variety of representations (concrete, numerical, algorithmic, and graphical), tools, and graphing calculators are used to model mathematical situations and solve meaningful problems. Coursework concentrates on foundations for functions, linear functions, and quadratic and other nonlinear functions. All ninth-grade students who did not take Algebra I in eighth grade will enroll in this course.