Precalculus I
Course Description
Dearborn High School
2017-2018
Instructor: Ms. Audrey Springer-Wilson
Email:
Blog: iblog.dearbornschools.org/dhsprecalc
Welcome to first semester Precalculus! This semester, we will build on concepts of Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry to create a solid foundation for more advanced mathematics (especially Calculus). We will experience opportunities to apply familiar ideas in new contexts, articulate our thinking, learn to write questions that will empower us to take responsibility for our learning, and persevere in problem solving. I’m excited to share this semester with you and look forward to working with you to embrace the learning opportunities ahead.
Precalculus Textbook: Precalculus – College Preparatory Mathematics
A note about the textbook: Current education research shows math is best learned in a collaborative, inquiry-based environment with a focus on applying concepts. This textbook – new for Dearborn High school – is a new resource that incorporates these best practices. It will be different than what you are used to and may, at times, be uncomfortable. You will be responsible for observing patterns, drawing conclusions, and applying your new learning – skills you will use in calculus, college, and life.
Precalculus Course Content – First Semester
Chapter 1: Foundations
Chapter 2: Finding the Area Under a Curve
Chapter 3: Exponentials and Logarithms
Chapter 4: Circular Functions
Chapter 5: Introduction to Limits
Supplies
· Binder with 5 dividers
· Loose-leaf paper
· Pencils and erasers
· Colored pens (for correcting work)
· Highlighters (at least 4 colors)
· Graph paper
Course Policies
Classroom Rules/Expectations:
· BE RESPECTFUL – come to class on time, follow directions, be on task, treat teacher and fellow classmates appropriately
· BE RESPONSIBLE for your education – ask questions, express concerns, take initiative
· BE PREPARED – come to class with planner, required materials, and completed assignments
· BE COLLABORATIVE – participate in class discussions and group work, maintain group roles, give constructive feedback
· BE PROFESSIONAL – Comply with the dress code, no electronics
Absences and make up work:
If you miss class, check the blog! On it, you will find information about what we did in class that day, any handouts that were distributed, the homework answer keys, and so much more. You are responsible for anything that has been posted. When you return from your absence, turn in anything that was due while you were away. If the absence is an extended one, contact me to determine a plan to get you caught up as quickly as possible.
Class Participation: During Precalculus, be in the game, not watching from the stands. Be willing to share your ideas with others and to support your reasoning to help each other understand new ways to solve problems. In other words, participate fully in all class activities.
Homework: Homework allows you to explore and practice what you are learning and apply concepts you reviewed and discovered during lessons to concrete situations. Do it! Unless otherwise specified, homework will be checked and reviewed at the beginning of each hour and collected at the end of each section.
- Show all calculations and work, even if you do it in your head or on a calculator.
- When you get stuck on a problem, solve it as far as you can, then write a short explanation of your difficulty.
- Use your class binder and textbook as resources.
- No homework or makeup work will be accepted after a test day.
Be proactive about creating study groups, using outside resources such as dictionaries and websites, and discussing problems with each other and with me.
Grading Policy:
· 80% will be determined by summative assessments (ex. tests, essays, projects)
· 20% by formative assessments (ex. quizzes, journals, homework, class work)
Reassessment policy:
· Summative assessments: When the date of a test is shared, the makeup and retake dates will also be communicated. This will enable you to plan your preparation and attendance in a way that will allow you to best succeed on the test.
· Quiz retakes: Quiz retakes will be granted on a case-by-case basis. Details will be shared as they apply. If you retake a quiz, the retake grade will be entered in the gradebook, regardless of its relation to the first grade.
Tutoring: If you are having difficulties with any of the topics covered in this course, see me as soon as possible. I will be available for tutoring most Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons. If those options conflict with your schedule, I will be happy to provide another time that will accommodate both of us. Please contact me individually by email more than 24 hours before the requested tutoring time. Make an effort to attend tutoring as soon as you think you might need help. If you wait until the end of the section or chapter, you may not receive very much individual attention.
A final note: In order to be successful and, equally importantly, have a positive experience in this class, keep the following thoughts in mind:
- You can always ask for help – do it early!
- Set goals every week and recognize your accomplishments.
- Bring a positive attitude to class.
Please share this course syllabus with your parent(s) and/or guardian(s). When you and your parent/guardian have had the opportunity to review this course outline, please fill out, sign, and return the attached form. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I’m looking forward to a great semester!
Precalculus I
Contact Information and Receipt of Syllabus Verification
Please take a few moments to complete the following information.
Contact Information
Parent/Guardian Name(s), Relationship(s) to student, and Telephone number(s):
Best time(s) to call:
Parent/Guardian E-mail:
Student E-mail:
Signature(s): After reading through the course description and course policies, please sign below and return to Ms. Springer-Wilson on or before Friday, September 8th, 2017.
I, ______(Student), have read, understand, and agree to comply with the Precalculus course syllabus and the course expectations.
I, ______(Parent/Guardian), have read, understand, and agree to help my student comply with the Precalculus course syllabus and the course expectations.
Student Signature: ______Date:______
Parent/Guardian Signature: ______Date:______