Algebra 2 Syllabus

Algebra 2 Fall 2007 Syllabus

Mr. Jack Kimsey Ms. Joyce Daniel
kimseyj@fulton.k12.ga.us

Course Content and Textbook
Algebra is the study of mathematical equations and their solutions, and methods of calculation according to a set of established rules. Topics include linear functions, systems of equations, quadratic functions, and polynomials functions.
The course addresses the following objectives on the GHSGT: 1-11, 13-23, 25-32, 37-45. The chapters we will be covering are 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6, of the McDougal Littell Algebra II book. If this book is lost, the replacement cost is $51.00.

Classroom Mission
To create an environment of respect where every student has the opportunity to achieve math success.

Materials
Covered textbook, paper, a minimum of 2 pencils, and a three ring binder with dividers are required for class each day. We have a class set of calculators but these cannot go home. If you would like your own calculator, we would suggest getting the TI-83 plus. This will help you in this class and should last you through college.

Notebook
You will be required to keep a notebook for this class. The notebook should be divided into the following sections: 1) Class syllabus and assignment sheet, 2) Daily openers (Bellringers) and Notes, 3) Assignments, and 4) Quizzes and Tests.

Grade Distribution
Final Exam 15%
Tests 55%
Quizzes 15%
Assignments 15%



Grading Scale
A 90-100%
B 80-89%
C 70-79%
F Below 70%
Class Rules
1. Be prepared and ready to learn when the bell rings. Tardiness is unacceptable, and the consequences are outlined in the Student Handbook.
2. Do your best at all times.
3. Respect the teacher, your classmates and yourself!! Disrespect for either the teacher or fellow students, or any form of disruption will not be tolerated in this class. Detention and/or referral to an administrator are possible consequences of such behavior.
4. Cheating will not be tolerated and will result in an automatic zero for the assigned activity. Any cheating will result in a call home and possible parent conference, detention, and a referral to an administrator. This will also result in an Honor Code violation and may be assigned two days of Saturday School for the first offense.
5. No talking during tests. Talking is considered cheating and will result in a zero on your test.




Consequences for Misbehavior
1. Verbal warning / student teacher conference
2. Relocation in the classroom
3. Private Detention (contact parents)
4. Public Detention (contact parents)
5. Administrative referral

* Extreme negative behaviors (such as fighting) will result in immediate referral.

Assignments
Assignments will be made DAILY, which includes Friday nights. Students are expected to write out each question, draw all pictures, show all work and correct their own mistakes during reviews. Assignments will be checked. You will be graded based on completeness. The warm-ups (bellringers), classwork / notes, and homework for the week will be averaged to make one assignment grade for the entire week. NO LATE WORK WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR ANY REASON!!

Make sure all assignments are headed with your full name, date, period, and page and problems assigned.

Hall Passes
You must have your student agenda to leave the classroom. You will be permitted to have 6 hall passes for the semester. This means you will have six and only six chances to go to the bathroom, water, etc. during class for the semester. Get necessary things done between classes, and use your passes wisely.

Attendance/Make-up Work
It is your responsibility to attend class each day. If you are unable to attend, it is YOUR responsibility to complete and turn in your make-up work
The work that was due the day you were absent must be turned in the day you get back. Make-ups for tests and quizzes will be given in class on the day the student returns to school. If a student misses several days before a test as well as the test, we will work together to create a makeup schedule. All other missed work should be made up according to the Fulton County Schools Policy described in the Student Handbook. If the work is not completed after the allotted number of days, the grade will be a ZERO.

Any student absent the day of the review will be expected to take the test with the class on the scheduled day.

Extra Help
You are strongly encouraged to come by for extra help when needed before or after school. If you give me advanced notice that you will be coming by, we can arrange a time for you. If you do not tell us that you are coming, we may not be available. If you come for extra help, be prepared to tell us exactly what you do not understand. Be able to show us your work and notes where you have been trying to do the problems. Do not wait until the last minute before a test!



** All rules of CHS and the FCSD will be in effect in this class.**






Use of Graphing Calculators
Graphing calculators are powerful mathematical tools. Through their use students can visualize problems more quickly, discover mathematical properties, and validate their work done with pencil and paper. They must be used appropriately. Graphing calculators are not substitutes for students learning mathematical concepts and processes. They are to be used to enhance student learning.

I have a set of graphing calculators for students to use while in my classroom. In order to ensure security, students will only be allowed to use one of my calculators on in-class quizzes and tests.

Game playing is not an appropriate use on the graphing calculator and it will not be permitted in class. If a student is found playing a game on any graphing calculator, I will confiscate the calculator, clear the memory of the calculator, and decide if further disciplinary action is warranted.

It is the goal of the Mathematics department to have students learn to use and appreciate the graphing calculator as a mathematical tool.





RECOVERY POLICY – FCBOE (from the student handbook)

Provision for Improving Grades
Opportunities designed to allow students to recover from a low or failing cumulative grade will be allowed when all work required to date has been completed and the student has demonstrated a legitimate effort to meet all course requirements including attendance.

Students should contact the teacher concerning recovery opportunities. Teachers are expected to
establish a reasonable time period for recovery work to be completed during the semester. All recovery work must be directly related to course objectives and must be completed ten school days
prior to the end of the semester.

Teachers will determine when and how students with extenuating circumstances may improve their grades.



CHATTAHOOCHEE HIGH SCHOOL MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT GUIDELINES:
Recovery is available to students with a cumulative grade below 74% after a minimum of two (2) major grades. The maximum grade a student can earn for a recovery activity is 70%. There will be only one recovery opportunity per failed major assignment or test. The individual teacher will determine the means of recovery. THE STUDENT MUST INITIATE THE PROCESS WITHIN FIVE (5) DAYS OF NOTIFICATION OF A FAILING GRADE ON A MAJOR ASSIGNMENT/TEST.