Welcome to Pre- Calculus! Mrs. Holman

Mrs. Sheri Holman Mrs. Sheri Holman Education Bowling Green State University – BS in Education Bowling Green State University – BS in Education Ashland University - Masters in Computer Technology Ashland University - Masters in Computer Technology Experience (19 years) Solon High School 2002 – PresentSolon High School 2002 – Present Wooster High School 1995 – 2002Wooster High School 1995 – 2002 Vermilion High School & Middle School Vermilion High School & Middle School

Course Objectives This course provides the tools that you will need for college mathematics courses, particularly Calculus. You will build on your learning from Algebra II and Geometry to construct a deeper understanding of functions. As you study Pre- Calculus and trigonometry, you will be investigating functions in new ways and working with more abstract forms, including trigonometric functions. You will develop a deeper understanding of the concepts of limits, area and slope that are essential in the development of Calculus.

Required Materials Pre-Calculus Text with acceptable cover A sharpened pencil, pen, and colored pencils (highlighters are helpful) Notebook for notes and homework - a 3-ring binder is recommended A graphing calculator (TI-nspire or TI-84 + recommended) Two dry-erase markers

Structure of the class This rigorous course is designed for students who intend to take Advanced Placement Calculus next year. The expectation is that you have mastered and retained the skills and concepts learned in Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry. We will use minimal class time to review these skills and concepts. You will be working individually, with partners, in groups, and with technology to complete problems and activities that will help you understand new mathematical ideas and methods.

Study Buddies/Groups It is important that you complete EVERY homework problem. This course is designed to “spiral”, meaning that topics are visited more than once, so you need to do all problems to get a complete understanding of the material. Each individual has a unique way of seeing and approaching problems, so each of you will have something to contribute while you work with your classmates in this course. I strongly encourage you to work with another student or group of students when studying and preparing for this class.

Assistance I am here to help you so if at any time you are having a problem pertaining to this class please see me immediately so that we can remedy the problem as quickly as possible. I am available most days both before and after school. The Math Lab is also available during the school day.

Grading Scale A: 90 – 100% B: % C: % D: % F: 59.9% or below (You earn this!) Note: Your grade in Pre-Calculus is weighted. In-class assessments will constitute 85% of your grade; assessments with resources/other will constitute 15% of your grade. Current grades are accessible on the parent viewer.

In-Class Assessments vs. Assessments with Resources In-Class Assessments Anything done in class in front of the teacher: Tests Quizzes Formative assessments Assessments w/Resources Anything graded where you have access to resources (classmates, family members, internet, book, etc.) Graded assignments Portfolios Projects Team assessments Class presentations and/or activities

In-Class Assessments – Tests Tests will be administered every three weeks on a Math Test Day (Monday or Wednesday). If you are absent for a test, you are expected to make up the test in the testing center between 7 AM and 4 PM the day you return to school unless previous arrangements have already been made. Failure to do so will result in a 10% reduction in score. If you are absent for a test, but are present in school anytime during the day, you will be expected to take the test before leaving the building that day and/or contact me prior to leaving, or face a 10 percent reduction in score.

In- Class Assessments - Quizzes Quizzes (15 points each) will be given regularly throughout the grading period. Most will be announced in advance, with dates (Mondays or Wednesdays) posted on the board and on the Family Information System online. Quizzes will NOT be made up. If you take all the quizzes in a given grading period, the lowest quiz score will be dropped. If you miss class, but are present in school the day of a quiz, you may take the quiz before leaving the building that day. Pop quizzes are worth fewer points but cannot be dropped. “Partner Quizzes” may be given from time to time, but cannot be dropped either.

Assignments & Grading Assignments will be posted in the classroom and online. It is your responsibility to write them down in class or find them online. You are expected to do ALL assignments. Portfolio assignments and projects will be given periodically during the course. They will be discussed in more detail when assigned. I will not grade on a curve nor will grades be rounded. Keep track of your own grade so that it is not a surprise at the end of the quarter.

On my page, you will find daily lessons, homework, upcoming tests and quizzes as well as some of the class resources. To get to my page follow these steps: 1. Go to the Solon Schools web page 2. Choose Schools 3. Choose SHS 9 – Scroll down to my name (Charlotte Holman) 5. Choose “Calendar” from the bottom 6. Choose the appropriate class Internet Information

Tonight’s Assignment Check out the class website! Complete Student Information Sheet.

We’re All in This Together! Welcome to Pre-Calculus! I am looking forward to assisting you in learning and have high expectations of you for this year. If we work together, it will be a rewarding and successful year for all!