Email: jmacdonald@millerschool.org - www.millerschoolmath.blogspot.com - Phone: (434) 823-4805 ex 250
Course Description: This class emphasizes two- and three-dimensional reasoning skills, coordinate and transformational geometry, and the use of geometric models to solve problems. Concepts are introduced in the context of real-world problems in order to increase the conceptual development of the student. A variety of application problems and problem-solving skills are included. This course covers properties of geometric figures, definitions, informal proofs, trigonometric relationships, logic, and justification techniques. Our textbook is Geometry Prentice Hall Mathematics.
Materials for Class: Students are required to come to class everyday with:
1. A binder, which includes the following sections:
o Notes
o Homework
o Quizzes
o Projects/Drawings
2. Computer (with required software)
3. Pencil, protractor, ruler, and compass (preferably with wheel adjustment)
Student's Material Check Off
Daily Work Flow Chart
Participation: Because learning is an active process, every student is expected to show active participation in class. Participation includes answering questions during class, making relevant comments and suggestions during class, helping other students, and group work. Participating also means being prepared.
Daily Work Flow Chart
Participation: Because learning is an active process, every student is expected to show active participation in class. Participation includes answering questions during class, making relevant comments and suggestions during class, helping other students, and group work. Participating also means being prepared.
Lateness: You are expected to arrive to class on time and prepared to work every day. Read the Miller School Student Handbook about more information on this topic.
Absences: When you miss a class, you are expected to complete all the work from that day and keep up with any note taking/outlining. A syllabus will be provided for all assignments and my math blog will have updates. Email me at the address above if you need clarification. If you miss a quiz, we will set up a time for you to take it. You are responsible for submitting work missed.
Classroom Behavior: Please respect your classmates, your teacher and their property. I expect you to be polite and courteous to your classmates and your teacher to promote the best possible learning environment.
Homework:
· Homework will be assigned daily from your syllabus. It may consist of problems from the text, on-line problems, outlining and note taking, journal writing, watching tutorial videos or other project work. Always record the homework in your planner and know where to find the syllabus online and how to access the math calendar.
· Homework should always be completed in pencil in the required format. Check all odd answers in the back of the book. I expect you to correct the rest of the answers from your homework as we go over it in class. Making mistakes is important in how you learn.
· Maintaining your notebook will be a critical part of the class and notebook checks and notebook quizzes may be given.
· Homework and class work is all about reinforcing important concepts. It will be graded on effort, organization, neatness and your participation in group work. If you miss an assignment you will be responsible for getting the work completed. Difficulty with completing assignments on time will result in mandatory Help Session or Saturday Study Hall. You get half credit if you turn in an assignment late.
· Computer: A computer is mandatory for this course and should be brought to class charged with required software daily. We will be using the Khan Academy site and occasionally using Google SketchUp and Geogebra software which are free downloads from the internet. You will also need you computer to have access to the Miller School Math Blog. You must check you school gmail account daily.
Grading: The semester grade will be computed by the following percentages
Quizzes 35% (Quizzes on material will be announced and covered smaller portions of the material. Outline quizzes are unannounced and test how well you have taken notes on a particular reading.)
Projects 30% (There will be small projects and writing assignments as well as one or two large projects each quarter.)
Homework/Class work 35% (Homework is checked and graded daily. Preparation is also included as a part of homework which means all required materials are brought to class daily. Note taking/Outlining is also homework as well as any writing assignments. Many assignments need to be completed during class. Use your class time effectively)
We have two semesters. They are averaged to give you your final grade. Each semester has two quarters that are worth 40% each and a semester exam worth 20%.
Help: One of the great aspects of MSA is the availability of teachers to work with you one on one. I am frequently available for extra help during 7th period. If you have questions about the homework, any upcoming quizzes, projects, or anything about the class please stop by. You can make an appointment with me or just drop in, but please be on time to help sessions which begin at 2:50pm.
- Mr. Macdonald
