Newfound Regional High School Mathematics Department Pre-Calculus Course Expectations Mr. Messier I. Description & Competencies: This course is designed to prepare students for college-level Calculus or AP Calculus. The course includes a rigorous examination of polynomial, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions. Students will learn how to utilize these functions in mathematical modeling. Other course topics include; systems of equations, matrices, vectors, conic sections, parametric equations and polar coordinates. A graphing calculator (TI-83/84/89) is required, as it will significantly improve the development and retention of material presented. The course will conclude with a unit on sequences and limits that will provide each student with a strong foundation for future exploration of Calculus topics. I. PROBLEM SOLVING: Students make sense of problems and perseveres in solving them. II. REASONING: Students reason abstractly and quantitatively. III. VALID ARGUMENTS: Students will construct valid arguments and critique the reasoning of others. IV. MODELS: Students model using various tools. II. Topics: Solving & Graphing ~ Equations, Inequalities, Quadratics, Exponentials, and Trigonometry Simplifying Expressions Factoring Polynomials Analyzing Trigonometry Utilizing the Laws of Trigonometry Computations with Matrices III. Previous Knowledge: This course assumes that students are competent in: Solving linear and quadratic equations and inequalities. Factoring trinomials. Simplifying exponential and radical expressions. IV. Formative Assessments: Formative Assessment is a self-reflective process that promotes student achievement. In other words, it’s practice. Homework is assigned daily, and is expected to be kept in your binder in chronological order. Homework will be checked daily for completion. Please make yourself familiar with the terms for Academic Detention on pages 8 and 9 in your Student Handbook. Formative Assessments count for 10% of your grade.
V. Summative Assessments: Summative Assessment is a verification of what has been learned. Quizzes will be given periodically throughout each chapter. Chapter tests may be given at the end of each unit. When exams are handed back, you will make corrections to problems that are incorrect. Exams that are submitted with evidence of insufficient effort will receive a grade of zero. Quizzes will be scored on a 50-point basis. Tests will be scored out of 100 points. Summative Assessments count for the remaining 90% of your grade. VI. Summative Redo Policy: Summatives that have not met the level of competence may be redone if the level of effort has satisfied the teacher's expectations. Two things must be accomplished in order to take a retake exam. First, all formative assessments for that unit being assessed must be completed. Second, students will need to form and execute a Summative Reassessment Plan in writing. By taking a retake, you agree to take the score on the retake. Only one opportunity for a retake will be offered for each exam. Excessive requests for redo will result in a referral to Intervention. VII. Responsibilities: You are expected to attend all classes (on time!) prepared with your assignments, COVERED textbook, notebook, graphing calculator/app, and writing utensils. You are expected to conduct yourself in an appropriate manner within the learning environment. Active participation is expected. You are expected to check the classroom website for missing work during an absence and complete makeup work promptly. You are expected to be honest, respectful, and responsible to everyone in the classroom at all times. VIII. Help Opportunities: Help on anything you are having difficulties with can be attained before and after school in Room 116. Help can also be attained from the teachers Office Hours during school. If you have concerns about your progress in this course, you may see me before or after school, or talk to your guidance counselor.
