Student Course Expectations



Student Course Expectations

AMSAT Pre-Calculus BC Honors

Lynette Quigley, Instructor

I. COURSE SCOPE:

• Course Description: This one-year, 2.5 credit class is designed for the highly motivated, accelerated math student who desires to go beyond the regular high school curriculum. This course will review topics from advanced algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, as well as investigate problem-solving techniques using analytic geometry, series and sequences, vectors, matrices, functions, probability, and statistics. During the fourth quarter, the study of calculus involving limits and derivatives will be introduced and explored. The use of a graphing calculator is integral to the study of Pre-Calculus topics. The TI-84 or TI-89 calculator will be used for activities. This course is a prerequisite for Calculus BC.

*Keep in mind that this class is worth 2.5 credits, so the grade you get will be averaged into your GPA 2.5 times.

• Textbooks: PRECALCULUS WITH LIMITS, 5th edition, Houghton Mifflin Co., 2008

CALCULUS, D.C. Heath and Company, Chapters 1 – 3

• Prerequisites: Completion of AMSAT Algebra II/Trig. with a minimum “B” grade

• Course Goals:

o To graph equations, functions, and their inverses using both the Cartesian and polar graphing systems.

o To investigate and describe functions and their inverses using curve-sketching techniques.

o To solve and analyze the graphs of polynomial, transcendental, trigonometric, and absolute value equations/inequalities, including those with complex numbers.

o To solve real-world problems and applications involving advanced algebra and trigonometry, sequences and series, vectors, complex numbers, matrices, statistics, and probability.

o To apply general graphing techniques to trigonometric functions using technology and to explore the uses of the relationships among the parts of a triangle.

o To investigate the concept of a limit by examining infinite sequences and series, slopes of curves, and areas under curves.

o To develop a variety of problem-solving strategies and logic skills necessary for advanced mathematical or scientific studies.

o To solve problems among mathematical topics and integration with science and other disciplines, using technology, including calculators and computers.

o To develop research skills and the ability to reason and communicate mathematically, in both oral and written form, in order to apply learned concepts to new situations.

o To develop and increase confidence in mathematical abilities and encourage continuous participation in higher-level mathematics and/or scientific studies.

II. COURSE OUTLINE:

• Course Content:

1. Functions Inverses and Graphs 8. Matrices & Determinants

2. Polynomial and Rational Functions 9. Sequences and Series

3. Exponential and Logarithmic Functions 10. Combinatorics & Probability

4. Trigonometric Functions & Graphs 11. Analytic Geometry- Conic Sections

5. Analytic Trigonometry & Identities 12. Polar and Parametric equations and graphs

6. Trigonometric Laws & Applications 13. Two & Three Dimensional Space and Vectors

7. Systems of Equations/Inequalities 14. Intro to Calculus: Limits & Derivatives

Classroom Materials:

o Assigned textbooks and writing utensils (pencils are preferred)

o Spiral or bound notebook for daily notes (must be bound, no loose papers)

o Separate lined paper for assignments (do not tear out of bound notebooks)

o Calculator – a graphing calculator is required for many assignments. The TI-84 Plus Silver Edition graphing calculator will be used for most classroom demonstrations (there are some graphing calculators available if needed for in class use only)

o No hall passes will be issued to obtain materials (bring them with you every day)

* It is suggested that you invest in either a TI-83, TI-84 or TI-89 graphing calculator to use in/out of my classroom. Prices vary, depending on where you purchase your calculator, however, if you invest in a TI-89 graphing calculator now, it will carry you through high school and college. You will use a graphing calculator regularly in this class and calculus. Some are available to borrow for classroom use.

• Math Notebook: (required and checked periodically)

Keeping an organized notebook will allow you to study more efficiently

o Notes: Include date, daily objectives, section number, current vocabulary, definitions, and worked out examples. These are required, and count toward a quiz grade. They must be neat, in date order, and kept in a spiral or bound notebook.

o Assignments: must include the assignment number, page, and date and kept until collected & graded. Graded assignments, handouts, graphing instructions, tables, lab reports etc. should be kept until the end of each quarter to verify points/grades.

o Quizzes and Tests: any graded quizzes and chapter tests will be graded and returned to students to go over, but will be collected again to be kept on file.

III. ASSESSMENT ACTIVITIES:

• Daily Participation Points: (5 per week) are based on the Problems of the Day (POD), problems worked in groups or on the board, active participation in classroom discussions and on assigned class activities. Students who are absent, tardy, sleeping, or not participating for any reason will lose these daily class points. They are added to homework points.

• Assignments/Homework: (5 points each) will usually be given daily and are an integral part of the learning process. Assignment sheets for each unit (chapter) will be posted on the Clark website, but the assignments will be collected every two to three school days. Completing assignments enables the student to practice the material being introduced and explained before being tested on it.

To receive full credit, each assignment must be complete, the directions followed, all work and steps shown on the paper, mistakes corrected, and turned in when due. Section assignments are given in advance, so make-up work must be turned in within 2 class periods of an absence from class. NO LATE WORK WILL BE ACCEPTED from any student unless absent from school (not just from class) the day it is collected.

*EARLY BIRD CLASS GRADE is determined only from Assignments, Homework, and Daily Participation Points. This grade could be higher than or equal to the overall quarter grade in Pre-calculus, but will not be lower.

(After receiving an A grade on TWO consecutive tests, a student will be excused from turning in subsequent book assignments unless he/she then receives a grade lower than an A. At that time he/she must earn two additional consecutive A grades in order to again be excused from assignments. *Students must always be ready to volunteer at the board weekly and must complete and turn in class activities, worksheets, and chapter reviews. (Never excused from these)

• Tests & Quizzes: A mid-chapter Quiz and/or a Chapter test will be given during each unit or chapter. Mid-chapter Quizzes are Non-Calculator. Chapter Tests will have some problems that require a graphing calculator. Together they make up 70% of the quarter grade.

• A comprehensive test will be given at the end of each grading period and can replace the lowest test or quiz score if it is a higher grade. For the 2nd and 4th quarters, the semester test is used for this comprehensive test.

• Makeup Tests/Quizzes: Students absent only one day should be prepared to take a makeup test/quiz the day they return. After this time, an alternate makeup test (different/harder) will need to be scheduled after school within one week. Students with a partial day absence on a test day must have an excused and valid reason for missing in order to take a makeup test.

• Calculator Labs: Labs will be assigned periodically throughout each quarter. These will include various activities involving “hands on” applications of current topics and use of the graphing calculators. Written lab reports may be required. Makeup labs must be arranged with the instructor within one week to be completed after school.

• Projects: There may be one project assigned each semester (during 1st and 3rd quarters). Projects are worth 100 points and will be averaged in with test scores for that quarter. The comprehensive test mentioned above CANNOT replace a project grade.

IV. EVALUATION AND GRADING SYSTEM:

Grades will be based on test performance, quizzes, class participation, assignments, and labs.

The following percentage scale will be used:

90 -- 100.0 = A Quarter Grades will be rounded only if

80 -- 89.9 = B the Assignment/Participation average is a 70 -- 79.9 = C 95% A or higher for the current quarter.

60 -- 69.9 = D

0 -- 59.9 = F Semester Grades will NOT be rounded.

Quarter Grade Breakdown: Semester Grade Breakdown:

Chapter Tests and Project = 70% 1st Quarter = 40%

Notebook/Mid-Chapter Quizzes 2nd Quarter = 40%

Assignments/Participation Pts./Labs = 30% Final exam = 20%

V. STUDENT BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS:

• Tardy Policy: A student is considered tardy if not INSIDE the classroom when the tardy bell rings and will cause a loss of participation points for the day. Excessive tardies (2 or more) will require disciplinary actions based on CCSD policies & procedures. (A pass from the OFFICE is the only excused tardy.) Early Bird counts!! You must sign in at the door!!

• Attendance Policy: Attendance and participation in class activities are an integral part of the educational process. Unless the student is ill, every effort should be made to be in class and participate on a daily basis. Excessive absences cause a loss of participation points/instruction and as outlined on CCSD policies and procedures, could result in a loss of credit for the class.

• Citizenship Grades: are based on good behavior, attendance and punctuality, as well as active participation and involvement in class activities.

“O”— active participation and contributions, prepared, on time and on task, rarely absent.

“S” —few tardies/absences, turns in assignments and participates regularly, usually on task.

“N”—excessive tardies, unexcused absences, missing assignments, sleeping or not on task.

“U”—referrals to Dean, repeated calls home, cheating, insubordination, disruptive, off task.

• Classroom Expectations: Each student is expected to:

o Arrive on time, prepared to work (with all necessary materials), be alert, and be actively involved with class activities and assignments. Working on or copying assignments involving other classes will not be allowed during math class.

o Be respectful and courteous to others in the room, acting in a manner which promotes a learning environment, keeping the walls, desks, books, calculators, and computers clean and free of marks or inappropriate language.

o Follow all school rules for dress, behavior, attendance, tardies, etc. No hats, cell phones, I-pods, CD players, laser lights, drinks, or food are allowed in the classroom.

o Complete all your own work on assignments, quizzes, and tests. Evidence of cheating will result in the student receiving a grade of ZERO on that paper and an “N” or “U” in citizenship for that grading period. Cheating includes the recipient as well as the one giving answers!!! USING a calculator on a non-calculator test/quiz will result in a zero for that portion.

Ask for additional help as needed during class, before early bird, or after school. I will be available on Monday/Wednesdays until 3:30 pm or by special arrangement on other days. Free math tutoring is also available through Mu Alpha Theta Math Club in Dr. Wong’s room.

VI. COMPUTER/CALCULATOR USAGE:

• The computers will be “disk free” from outside sources. No student will be allowed to bring to class any disk of any kind without prior permission from the teacher.

• Any student found tampering with or abusing a computer or calculator (including use of inappropriate words, phrases, or graphics, removing batteries, etc.) will be permanently denied future use and will be responsible for the cost of its repair or replacement.

• Students who wish to use their own graphing calculators on tests may do so at the discretion of the instructor. No formulas or files may be used/stored without prior permission and inspection. Several tests during the year will not permit the “89” graphing calculators specifically.

VII. CONSEQUENCES:

• Violation of Classroom expectations will result in the following:

o Verbal warning to student

o Student-teacher conference and/or detention

o Parent-teacher contact (by phone or letter)

o Referral to the counselor and/or dean

o Fighting, harassment, threats, and insubordination will result in immediate referral to the dean

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