Honors Pre-Calculus

AB Calculus 2012-13

Who? Mr. Curt Sauer When? 6th period Where? Room 121

What to Expect? The ultimate goal of this course is to prepare you to pass the Advanced Placement AB Calculus test that is given in May. Although taking the test is optional, I am working under the assumption that all of you will take the test. This is something you will decide in February. Also, because this course can earn you college credit, expectations of you will be probably higher than any math course you have taken thus far. Even if you choose to not take the test, this course is meant to prepare you to be both a collaborative as well as independent math student.

What to Bring Grading Scale

2 Notebooks Folder Writing utensils TI graphing calculator (at least the TI-83) (also acceptable: TI-83, 84, 89, 92, Inspire) Textbook Great attitude and work ethic 

Barron’s AP Calculus Guide (without CD) (in stores $16.95, or better yet, look online for cheaper price)

Grade breakdown

HW 15% 1st quarter: 40% of overall grade Quizzes 35% 2nd quarter: 40% of overall grade Tests 50% Semester Exam: 20% of overall grade

Absence Policy

Attending class is critical to doing well. It is your responsibility to make up for absences. If you know you are going to miss class, please let me know in advance. I will let you know what we will be covering and what the assignment will be. If you miss class unexpectedly, see me or a reliable person from this class as to the material missed. Either way, you will have a day grace period to make up the material. Since math is sequential and builds on previous work, it is critical that you stay on top of things and don’t get behind. Expect to make up quizzes and tests up promptly, barring any unusual circumstances. Truancies are not expected. Work done that day is considered a zero. Work due that day is considered late. Homework

Very simple – if you want to do well, you must complete it on a daily basis. AP recommends 60 minutes a day. I believe 45 quality minutes is sufficient. In addition, notebooks should be collected and checked once per week (usually on Friday) to provide more specific feedback. Assignments not completed by the end of the chapter will not earn credit.

Grading Scale:

5: Done well, all problems attempted, work shown where needed, May have mistakes, but they are corrected 4: Work not consistently shown, may have “big” mistakes throughout the assignment 3: Many “big” mistakes, assignment partially done 2: Majority of assignment is missing, part that is done is done well 1: Answers only, work missing, but done by start of class 0: Answers written in during class, no work shown, automatic redo

Class Expectations:

1. You should be to class on time and ready to go when the bell rings.

2. Demonstrate continued respect for all people in the classroom as well as all materials.

3. Be prepared daily for class.

4. Participate in class. You can do this through group discussion, partner work, and putting work up on the board.

5. Produce quality work. This is an AP class and should be treated as such. Don’t be satisfied with mediocrity. Work at understanding the material until you get it.

My schedule

I am available for help during the following times:

4th & 5th hour: Math office 2nd hour: Math Study Hall (Room 111) Early Lunch: Room 115 (math office) After school (until 3:15): Math office

My website: access through the school website: www.pwssd.k12.wi.us Go to Schools (PWHS), then Staff (Curt Sauer). Click on the AB Calc tab.