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Course Summary:
This is an accelerated section of Pre Calculus. Generally, 30 to 45 minutes
of daily homework is assigned. One or two quizzes are given prior to each
test. Each quiz is approximately 15 minutes in length. Tests are constructed
to obtain mastery of fundamental and advanced algebra topics. Some of the
basic skills are done without the aid of a calculator. Approximately 4 tests
are given each trimester. Tests are more conceptual in nature than a regular
section of Pre Calculus. For example, students must generate many of the
math problems directly from word problems. Students take this course in
preparation for the AP (BC or AB level) of Calculus the following year. An
examination is administered for this course at the end of every trimester.
Grading Policy:
Tests: 70-75 %
Homework and Quizzes: 25-30%
During the first month of school
students will be taking four "gateway exams". Students have four tries over
the course of a week to pass each exam. In order to pass, a score of 90% or
higher must be attained. The average score of the four gateways will count
as a test.
It is expected that
students taking this course are self-motivated. If a student struggles on a
homework assignment he or she should seek help outside class on their own
initiative. Students will be asked to read the textbook and try problems
before a topic is introduced in class. The goal is to challenge the
students, but not lose them. I am available for help this year B, C (except
Day 1 & 4), D, E, and F (except Day 3 & 7) blocks as well after school. All
assignments are posted on-line. Students will be asked to access the Nichols
Intranet throughout the course of the year. Geometer’s
Sketchpad will be used to facilitate some learning. Prior knowledge of
this software is not necessary
Topics include:
We begin the year exploring topics studied in Algebra II:
Quadratic, Polynomial, Exponential and Logarithmic Functions. We problem
solve and analyze in-depth. Analytic Geometry (Conics) and Trigonometric
Functions are next. Time is spent on Trigonometric Equations, right triangle
trigonometry and identities. We study Polar coordinates, parametrics, and
vectors. Other topics include Sequence and series. matrices and
combinatorics. The last seven weeks of class are spent in Differential
Calculus.
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