2016/2017
AP Statistics Course Outline
Greg Mako
Course Overview:
This AP course emphasizes a multi-representational approach to statistics, with concepts, results, and problems being expressed graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally. This course is intended to be challenging and demanding. The seven main parts are Exploring and Understanding Data, Exploring relationships between variables, Gathering data, Randomness and probability, from the data at hand to the world at large, learning about the world, inerence when variables are related. The last parts are over represented on the AP test.
Goals*:
ü Students should be able to work with data represented in a variety of ways: graphical, numerical, analytical, or verbal. They should understand the connections among these representations.
ü Students should understand the meaning of shape, spread, modality and the meaning to the interpretation of the data through reading displays and creating various displays with computers and calculators.
ü Students should understand the meaning of linear, exponential, logarithmic, exponential, power and other types of regression and be able to use all the types with ease on the calculator as well as interpret the appropriateness of each type.
ü Students should understand how to create and determine that appropriateness of data gathering methods and methodologies. They will have to conduct or create experiments and compare to surveys.
ü Students should be able to communicate mathematics both orally and in well-written sentences and should be able to explain solutions to problems.
ü Students should be able to determine randomness and use random number generators of the appropriate kind as well as to use probability rules and probability models.
ü Students should be able to use sample distributions to determine what type of confidence intervals to use and how to test hypothesis about proportions, and means.
ü Students should be able to make inferences about means, compare means, paired samples, blocks and inferences for regression. Students will use technology to help solve problems, experiment, interpret results, and verify conclusions.
ü Students should be able to determine the reasonableness of solutions, including all parameters or sample characteristics that are determined based on the data or calculations given.
ü Students should develop an appreciation of calculus as a coherent body of knowledge and as a human accomplishment.
Course Content:
The course will follow the Advanced Placement Course Description published by the College Board.
Grading Policy:
Mathematical knowledge will comprise the largest part of your grade; however, you will also be graded on your ability to apply, model, and communicate mathematical knowledge. Your report card grade will be based on a percentage of the total number of points earned in the following categories and weights:
Tests and Quizzes 60%
Homework and In Class Work 30%
In Class work 5%
Materials Checks 5%
All Tests and Quizzes will be timed and given in class as designated on the daily assignment calendar. Assessments will model the College Board exam multiple choice and free response questions. Questions will consist of both calculator-required and no-calculator-required items.
Homework will be assigned daily and will be collected or portions will be asked for as homework quizzes. Homework could also be graded on completion. Homework accountability will be tested with quizzes, which will assess your understanding of cumulative content. AP Problem Sets typically consist of 6 Multiple Choice questions and 2 Free Response questions. (This may vary as needed.)
Materials:
Textbook: Stats: Modeling the World; Bock, Velleman, De Veaux, 3rd Edition: Loose-leaf Paper (Notebook & Graph)
§ Index Cards (to be used for required Flash Cards)
§ Pencils (Note: colored pencils may be helpful when creating complex representations of data.)
§ Large 3-ring binder for this class only
§ Graphing Calculator (preferably TI-84 )
AP Statistics Exam:
It is highly recommended that each student take the AP test: The cost of the exam is covered by the school.
Classroom Procedures/Rules:
§ Be in class on time and with all necessary materials.
§ Respect the space, property, and ideas of others.
§ Use appropriate and positive language at all times.
§ Complete all assignments in pencil so that they are accurate, legible, and on time.
§ Actively participate in class.
§ Follow all schools rules.
(See also: Classroom Standards and Mathematics Standards)
Studying and Reviewing Tips:
§ DO spend more than one night studying and spend hours, not minutes studying, especially for tests.
§ DO rework problems from the homework sets, as your exams will cover this material. DO NOT just “look over” what you have already done.
§ DO form study groups outside of class with other AP Statistics students. Even if you forget how to do something, chances are someone else in your group will remember.
§ DO get extra help from Mr. Mako or other math geniuses J well before a quiz or test. DO NOT wait until the night before to cram!!!
§ DO use www.tutor.com for one-on-one assistance with homework questions.
I have read and understand the course expectations discussed in class as presented in this syllabus.
Student Signature ______Date ______
Parent/Guardian Signature ______Date ______