Course Syllabus

COURSE SYLLABUS

COURSE:  Math 4

PERIODS:  2nd (10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.) and 4th (1:55 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.)

INSTRUCTOR:  Coach Atkins

DESCRIPTION:  Math 4 is an application-based fourth-level math course that integrate functions, logarithms, trigonometry, statistics, and probability.  The course allows the student to apply math to practical, real-life problem-solving using modern technology.  Math 4 units include Parent Functions, Transformations, and Characteristics; Piecewise Functions, Compositions and Regressions; Logarithmic Functions and Logarithms; Trigonometry; Data Analysis; Probability; Statistical Inference; and ACT Math Prep.  Prerequisites for this course include credit for--and having a working knowledge of the content in--Math 1, Math 2, and Math 3.

GRADING:  Weighted Average System

A student’s grade comes from three categories, which are averaged separately, and weighted differently.  For the final course grade, each six-week period counts as 25% and the cumulative North Carolina Final Exam counts as the last 25%.

REQUIREMENTS: 

Tests (30%):  Tests are given after every unit as a common assessment.  These tests are graded for accuracy, but partial credit is given if proper work is shown.  Retests are not given, and students must take each test when it is assigned.

Quizzes (30%):  Quizzes are given approximately once per week.  These quizzes are also graded for accuracy, but quizzes may be retaken on a limited basis.  Students are expected to take the quiz when assigned.

Practice/Activities (40%):  Practice work and activities are collected or checked periodically and will be graded for completion, effort, and following directions.  Math practice is VITAL!  Therefore, students must complete all assigned practice!  All practice should be written neatly, and should include the student’s first and last name as well as any necessary written work.  Credit will NOT be given for undone, partial, or sloppy work.  Students will receive only half credit for late work and late work is not be accepted after that unit’s test has been given.

Extra Credit:  Some opportunities for extra credit may become available.  The POD (Problem Of the Day) that is given most days at the beginning of the class period is one way to receive extra credit.  Although all students must attempt the POD, correct answers (with shown work) count as extra credit (there is no penalty for a wrong answer).  POD work must be individual, and there is absolutely no communication or collaboration during POD time!  Extra credit may also be given for properly correcting the instructor and for other things that are TBA. 

MATERIALS:

  • assigned Chromebook and charger
  • earbuds or headphones
  • at least 2 standard, no. 2 pencils (may use mechanical) with erasers
  • red pen (for in-class grading)
  • 3-ring binder with loose-leaf paper (no spiral-bound themebooks)
  • TI-83 (or better) graphing calculator is recommended but not required.  This calculator can be downloaded freely by Android smartphone users through the app “wabbitemu.”  A TI-84 calculator will be assigned to each student to use in the classroom (with no sharing), and students will also be downloading a TI-84 Plus CE calculator for use on their Chromebook.
  • drinking water,  if in a container that can be sealed (not required)

EXPECTATIONS:  Students are expected to follow directions, give effort, and have respect.  They should act responsibly and use “common” sense.  Students must be ready for class each day when the bell rings, and will be expected to do their best on all assignments.  All students must focus attention during the instruction, take notes when directed, participate in discussions/activities, answer questions when called upon, and ask questions when necessary.  Completing assignments, participating in class, and briefly reviewing daily are the best methods of ensuring success. All classroom interruptions must be reserved for true emergencies only!  Each student should be considerate of others.  Once during each class period, students will have a monitored opportunity to use the restroom.

Because of the nature of remote learning, students are expected to daily log-in to, access, read announcements, and complete their lessons in Canvas.  When attending class weekly, students will have an opportunity to communicate with the instructor to ask any questions or get any necessary clarification.  Students should keep track of and verify their own grades.  Students are expected to follow NC, UCPS, PWHS, and classroom rules and policies, including dress code and COVID-19 safety guidelines.

COMMUNICATION:  It is vital that students maintain open contact with the instructor throughout the semester through e-mail, virtual meetings, or texting via the class Google Voice number.  Fridays will be reserved for planned virtual meetings following the schedule posted on the course Canvas page.

DISCIPLINE:  Should students fail to conduct themselves in a reasonable manner, consequences will be administered to correct the problem.  These consequences, based on the severity and frequency of the problem, may consist of student conferences, parent contacts, or parent conferences and may result in administrative write-ups.

MISCELLANEOUS:  Students should refer to the new 2020-2021 Parkwood High School Student Handbook for any questions regarding school rules, dress code, etc.  Math 4 Standards are available online through NCDPI or through the link posted in Canvas.  Tutoring is available according to the schedule posted in Canvas.

Course Summary:

Date Details Due