SBG: Take 1

So for some reason I have decided right now is the time to start on my plans for implementing SBG.(Part of my whole I-need-to-do-something-schooly-every-single-day-of-summer-so-I-don't-feel-guilty sickness)  I'm kind of a perfectionist, go big or go home type, so I really want to implement this in Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 (which I am teaching for the first time). Here's my plan of attack (I think):

1. Create scope/sequences of class (topics/units, basically titles)
2. Create concept lists (specific skills)
3. Create mid term and final exams (Or maybe just finals?)
4. Create easy and challenging assessments for each skill
5. Backwards planning lessons from there?

Does this make sense people? I don't know what I'm doing here! 

In the comments, betweenthenumbers suggested we start a wiki/blog project for first time SBGers. Interested? I'm game.


I'm starting with Algebra 1 because I feel the most comfortable with it. Even though I only have one section of it with 9 students. I have two sections of geometry with 35-40 students so hopefully doing Algebra first will prepare me for tackling that (at least that's what I'm telling myself).


Should I do all 5 steps for Algebra 1 and then move on to the other courses? Or should I do step 1 of all three courses, then step 2, and so on? I'm kind of leaning towards the latter but I'm predicting you guys tell me to do the former. Hm.


Here are the unit/topics and the order I have them in for Algebra 1:

• Equations
• Inequalities
• Functions
• Linear Functions
• Systems of Linear Equations
• Exponents
• Polynomials
• Factoring
• Quadratic Functions and Equations
• Exponential and Radical Functions
• Rational Functions and Equations

Does this make sense? Please advise. Last year, I didn't get past Factoring. Part of that was because I waste practically the first two weeks doing nothing because I was scared out of mind and didn't have a clue how to start actually teaching. Also, I spent entirely too long on slope and linear functions and just...screwed that all up. So now that I know that, I can fix that and get farther along. Also, I want to cut out all the beginning of the year review crap. What is the first actual Algebra 1 topic that we should start with? I want to embed review throughout each unit where needed. So I'm asking you, what can I trim off the front end? Where should I start Algebra 1?


Also, I was looking over the table of contents to Algebra 2 and it is almost identical to Algebra 1. What is up with that? Where should Algebra 1 truly end and Algebra 2 actually begin? 

I am struggling to come up with topic lists for Geometry and Algebra 2 before I even break it down into the more specific skill lists. Help?

These are not hypothetical questions people.


I need answers.


It is 8:42 on a Wednesday night and I am ready to get crackin on this stuff!