2. Welcome to Pre- Calculus! Mr. Havens 2008-2009

3. Mr. Peter Havens Mr. Peter Havens Education Wheaton College – B.A. in Mathematics Wheaton College – B.A. in Mathematics Kent State University – M.A. in School Administration Kent State University – M.A. in School Administration Experience (19 years) Solon High School 1994 – PresentSolon High School 1994 – Present West Geauga High School1991 – 1994West Geauga High School1991 – 1994 Danville Bonner Junior High School 1989 - 1991Danville Bonner Junior High School 1989 - 1991

4. Objectives Explore the algebraic, numerical, graphical, and verbal methods of representing problems Apply these concepts to real-world situations Use technology to solve problems Learn cooperatively as well as individually Communicate mathematics Make connections between mathematics and other disciplines. Prepare you for Advanced Placement Calculus

5. Required Materials Pre-Calculus Text with acceptable cover A sharpened pencil, pen, and colored pencils Notebook with graph paper for notes and homework - a 3-ring binder is recommended A graphing calculator (TI-84 + recommended)

6. Structure of the class This rigorous course is designed for students who intend to take Advanced Placement Calculus next year. The expectation is that students 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.

7. 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. I strongly encourage you to work with another student or group of students when studying and preparing for this class.

8. 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.

9. Grading Scale A: 90 – 100% B: 80 - 89.9% C: 70 - 79.9% D: 60 - 69.9% F: 59.9% or below (You earn this!) Note: Your grade is determined by the percentage you have earned of the total possible points. Keep a record of all of your own scores on a record sheet in the front of your notebook. You are capable of figuring your OWN grade at any time. Current grades are also accessible on the parent viewer.

10. Assessments – Tests Tests will be administered every three weeks on Math Test Day (Thursday) if possible. 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.

11. Assessments – Tests 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. There will be an optional comprehensive test available near the end of each quarter, which will cover material from that quarter. The score that you receive on the test will replace your lowest score of that quarter.

12. Assessments - Quizzes Quizzes (15 points each) will be given regularly throughout the grading period. Most will be announced in advance, with dates 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.

13. 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. Tests will constitute approximately 60% of your quarter grade, Quizzes will constitute approximately 30% of your quarter grade, and Homework and In-class assignments and formative assessments will constitute approximately 10% of your quarter grade. 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. However, if you are on the borderline, you may take the optional comprehensive quarter test.

14. Steps for Success Preparation Attendance Participation Independent practice Collaboration Communication

15. 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 www.solonschools.org 2. Choose Schools 3. Choose Solon High 4. Scroll down to my name (Peter Havens) 5. Choose “Calendar of Events” from the bottom 6. Choose the appropriate class Internet Information

16. 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!