Algebraic Connections

 
ALGEBRAIC CONNECTIONS SYLLABUS

TEAHCER:  Donna Heptinstall

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Algebraic Connections is designed for 1) students who 
need additional mathematical experiences prior to enrollment in Algebra II 
without Trigonometry and 2) students for whom this will be a culminating 
mathematics course.  This course integrates topics from algebra, geometry, 
measurement, probability and statistics with an emphasis on real-world 
applications.  (Course does not satisfy the requirement for the Advanced 
Academic Diploma)

PREREQUISITES:  Algebra I and Geometry or their equivalency

COURSE OBJECTIVES:  Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
	
1)      Make financial and economic decisions.
2)	Solve problems involving variation.
3)	Use formulas or equations of functions to calculate outcomes of 
        growth/decay.
4)	Determine maximum and minimum values of a function.
5)	Approximate rates of change from graphical or numerical data.
6)	Use the extreme value of a given quadratic function to solve applied 
        problems.
7)	Make predictions based upon tables or graphs from societal contexts.
8)	Use properties of right triangles to determine missing information.
9)	Analyze the aesthetics of real-life situations.
10)     Use arc length to solve applied problems.
11)	Use ratios of similar figures to solve applied problems.
12)	Model a set of data.
13)	Estimate probabilities.

CLASS EXPECTATIONS
1)	Have a good, positive attitude.
2)	Follow all school rules.  If in doubt, consult the handbook.
3)	Always bring materials to class – pencil, paper, graph paper, etc.
4)	Be on time for each class.
5)	Try to keep absences to a minimum.

TEXTS:  Glencoe Math Matters 3
        Glencoe Mathematics with Business Applications

MATERIALS:
1)	3-ring binder
2)	Wide ruled paper
3)	Pencils – no pens allowed for math work!!!!
4)	Scientific calculator
5)	Graph paper

GRADING PROCEDURES:
1)	Grades are computed by the ratio (points earned/points possible).
2)	Make-up work should be completed within 3 days.
3)	Make-up tests will be taken at 7:00 a.m. unless otherwise 
        prearranged.
4)	Homework is assigned on most days and is due the next school day.
5)	Work must be shown on every problem.  (No work – No credit!)
6)	Name, class period, date and assignment description must be at the 
        top of paper.
7)	If names are omitted from the assignments, the papers will be placed 
        a “no name” folder.  These “no name” papers will loose 10% of the
        total score.  It will be the student’s responsibility to claim the 
        paper or the grade will stand as a zero.
8)	Tests – about 4-5 per grading period.
9)	Expect pop quizzes occasionally.
10)	The only extra credit given will be for the bonus questions on a 
        test.
11)	Progress reports are sent home after 3 weeks.
12)	Report cards are sent home after 6 weeks.

TUTORING:  I will be available most days by 7:15 a.m. for tutoring.  Please 
make arrangements a day in advance.  The web site www.homeworkalabama.org is 
a free on-line tutoring service.

•The academic misconduct policy of the school will be followed in this 
course.
•The attendance policy of the school will be followed for this course.
•Any student who receives failing grades during this course is urged to 
discuss this with the teacher.