Honors Pre-Calculus Syllabus 2012-13

Instructor: John Hail Room: 1004 Phone: 780-7160 E-mail: jhailos@olatheschools.org Webpage: http://teachers.olatheschools.com/~jhailos Course Description This course is designed to strengthen and build upon previously learned algebra skills to prepare students for Calculus. Students will study the graphs and algebraic characteristics of the ten (10) basic functions including polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions. Triangular and rotational trigonometry will be explored in greater depth. Vectors, polar equations, and limits will be introduced.

Class Materials It is vital to the learning experience that students have their supplies each day. Each of the following should be taken to class each day: Pencil Notebook Paper Student handbook Graphing Calculator (TI-84 strongly recommended) A textbook will be loaned to each student for the school year. It is not required to bring it to class each day. Homework assignments will be accepted only when written in pencil. Graphing calculators are available starting at about $100 at various retailers. They can also be rented from Olathe South for $20/year.

Grading Policies Semester grades will be determined by averaging the two quarter grades. The spring semester will also include a final exam worth 10% of the semester grade with each quarter worth 45% of the grade. Quarter grades are comprised of the following three categories and their corresponding weights. Homework (5%): Homework will be assigned most class periods and will be due the following class meeting unless notified otherwise. Homework will be completed in pencil, showing all work, and turned in on time. Homework is graded strictly on completion, not on correct answers. Homework turned in more than 1 day late will be given half credit. Quizzes (30%): Quizzes will be given frequently. The format for these will vary, but they will always be a check for understanding of the topic covered in class. Exams (65%): Exams will be given at the conclusion of each unit of study. These will be an opportunity for students to demonstrate the skills they have learned and are the truest test of what a student has learned. For that reason, they are the most heavily weighted part of the students grade. Deadlines for make-up work: All homework assignments and quizzes must be completed before the exam for that unit. Any assignments not turned in by test day will be recorded as zeroes.

Extra Assistance Opportunities At Olathe South, we want students to have every opportunity possible for them to be successful. For this reason, there are many times for students to come in for extra assistance including: Seminar- Thursday block days Office Hours- 7:30-7:55 on M, T, W, and F and 3:00-3:30 each day It is recommended that students check with their instructor before coming in before or after school to ensure availability. Students should not hesitate to ask for extra help if they are having difficulty.

August 16, 2012 Dear Parents and/or Guardians, I am pleased that I will be your students Honors Pre-Calculus (HPC) teacher this year. Olathe South is an outstanding high school and has an outstanding math department. I am proud to be a part of this department and I am looking forward to many successes for your child. I expect nothing but the best from myself and my students and I will do my best to make this year a great one full of challenging and fulfilling experiences. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any concerns or questions. You can email me at jhailos@olatheschools.org or call me at the school (780-7160). I also maintain a class webpage (http://teachers.olatheschools.com/~jhailos) that will list homework assignments, provide copies of the daily notes, and notify of upcoming tests. There are two simple ways for you to stay informed of your students progress. The website http://parentaccess.olatheschools.com provides grade information for your student. Also, if you provide an email address below, I will send regular progress reports (about once a week) that will also keep you informed. I thank you in advance for supporting your student in their education. I expect to have an outstanding year! Sincerely, John Hail

Please complete the following contact information, detach, and return by Tuesday, August 21. The email address will be used to periodically send progress reports. Let me know if you do not want personal information sent on the account. You may keep the top part of this for your own contact information. Student Name________________ Parent/Guardian Name(s)_________________ Daytime Phone__________ E-mail_______________________

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