There are two options: one includes an optional live class component, where students must submit work each week, while the other is self-paced, allowing students to work at their own pace.

 

Application

Anyone interested in joining Ms. Chan’s Honors Algebra I class should  sign up and submit tuition to hold a spot.

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Course Description

This course introduces the foundational concepts of algebra, focusing on the language and structure needed for higher-level mathematics. Topics include variables and expressions, solving linear equations and inequalities, graphing linear functions, systems of linear equations, and proportional relationships. Students will also study exponents, polynomials, factoring, quadratic equations, and basic radical expressions. Emphasis is placed on problem solving, mathematical reasoning, and connecting algebraic representations to real-world applications.

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Who Should Apply?

All students should have successfully completed Pre Algebra.

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Why Take This Class?

This is the first high school math sequence, designed to build a strong algebraic foundation for future coursework, including Precalculus, AP® Statistics, and AP® Calculus. Drawing on the strengths of both Asian and Western educational traditions, the course emphasizes deep conceptual understanding, structured problem solving, and mathematical reasoning, rather than rote memorization alone.

Students learn not just how to solve problems, but why the mathematics works, developing logical reasoning and clear mathematical communication. This approach provides a strong and lasting foundation for success in advanced mathematics.

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Course Fee

Early Bird Special: $625
After June 30: $679

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Textbook and Materials

No textbook is required. Ms. Chan provides all instructional materials.

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Technical Requirements

• Computer with high speed internet access, email capability and camera

• Smartphone or scanner to save multiple handwritten pages as a single PDF file

•  Graphing calculator: TI 89, TI Nspire, or TI 83/84 Plus. Students may use other graphing calculators; however, a College Board approved calculator is a good investment and can be used for years to come. 

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Course Delivery

A. Asynchronous Components

Students access class materials on Canvas at any time. All materials are available 24/7.

• Video lectures for each lesson by Ms. Chan

• Weekly assignments, quizzes, chapter tests, and exams

• Discussion forum for questions, monitored by TAs and the instructors

 

B. Optional Live Sessions

One optional live Zoom session per week focusing on key concepts and challenging assignments. Attendance is optional and recordings are provided. The course is designed to be asynchronous, so students who are unable to attend live classes will not be at a disadvantage. Student who cannot attend the class should watch the recording.

Live sessions are taught by Mr. Clark. (See instructor qualifications.)

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Course Schedule

Optional weekly live Zoom session meets every week on Tuesday at 1 pm - 1:55 pm EST
The course runs from August 25, 2026 through early May 2027. Breaks are to be determined.

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Grading and Assessment

• Homework and Quizzes: Homework is extremely important. Students’ success in this class depends on their ability to complete and understand the homework problems. Watch the video lessons and complete the homework.

• Chapter Tests: There will be a test at the end of each chapter. All tests are closed books. You cannot use the internet, any textbook nor notes.

• Exams: There will be a midterm and final exam.

 

Questions and Support

Students may ask questions through the discussion forum or bring them to the live Zoom sessions. 

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Instructor Qualifications

Amelia Chan
She holds an M.A. in Mathematics from Columbia University in New York and dual B.A. degrees in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of California, Berkeley. She is a math instructor at De Anza College. Her professional background includes work as an Investment Banker, Financial Software Engineer, and Actuarial Consultant. After her children began school, she chose to homeschool them, designing customized courses to fit their individual abilities and needs. Through this experience, she began teaching mathematics to homeschool co ops and after school programs. Many of her students have excelled academically and won national math competitions. She has taught mathematics online and in person for over 20 years and is passionate about teaching students from around the world and supporting their success in mathematics. For more information about her and her teaching philosophy, please visit About Me.

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Dorr Clark

Mr. Clark holds a B.S. in Mathematics and an M.S. in Applied Mathematics from Santa Clara University. He was a mathematics and computer science instructor in the Graduate School of Engineering at Santa Clara University for 28 years. He brings decades of experience as a software engineer and is an expert in networking, with extensive industry experience and conference speaking engagements. After working as a software engineer, he chose to dedicate his time to teaching mathematics, technology, and debate to young students (www.clarksdebate.com). He has taught AP® Calculus to homeschooling students and has co taught summer math camps with Ms. Chan, making advanced mathematical ideas accessible through intuitive and exploratory learning. In addition to teaching, Mr. Clark has homeschooled his three now-adult children. and is the founding Debate Chair of the StoaUSA National Speech and Debate League, bringing an emphasis on logical reasoning and clear communication to his instruction.

 

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