Algebra II- Course Syllabus & Expectations - 2011 - 2012
TEXT: Algebra 2 by Karen Pilger copyright 2000 by Bob Jones University Press

STUDENT NEEDS: Each student is required to have an TI-83+ calculator. The students should keep homework for a quarter and quizzes for a semester to be used for study and review.
The instructor will provide:
(a) a textbook
(b) an algebra notebook with paper for class notes and homework
(c) a Course Syllabus & Expectations
(d) clear and precise assignments on a daily basis
(e) __________________________________________________________
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES: The student must recognize the classroom as a place of learning. Key to this is the respect of other students, the materials used, and the teacher. Cooperation is essential. Though there are a minimum number of rules for the classroom, it is expected that the student come to the classroom with a proper attitude, a willingness to work, and the "tools" necessary to do the work of a student. BRINGING A TEXTBOOK TO CLASS IS ESSENTIAL. STUDENTS MUST BRING A PENCIL. IN MATH CLASS, PEN IS UNACCEPTABLE M. As noted in another section, homework is to be done!!! FOOD OR DRINK WILL BE DISCOURAGED FROM BEING IN THE CLASSROOM

OVERALL COURSE OBJECTIVE: After completion of this course, the student should have mastered a
variety of skills in algebra incorporating the use of the scientific calculator where applicable, further the
ability to solve algebra word problems, and apply the principles of algebra to solving "real world"
problems
SPECIFIC LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Upon completion of reading assignments, written homework
assignments, and other assigned materials, demonstrated either orally or on a written test or quiz,
the student will be able to:
Solve problems using the techniques of graphing, modeling and finding patterns.
Solve linear equations and inequalities. Graph linear equations and inequalities.
Solve linear systems graphically and algebraically.
Factor quadratic and other special polynomials.
Graph quadratic functions. Solve quadratic equations.
Simplify and evaluate exponential and radical expressions.
Graph polynomial functions and rational equations.
Solve linear and quadratic systems of equations.
Simplify rational expressions and solve rational equations.
Solve problems using trigonometric ratios.

SPECIFIC LEARNING OBJECTIVES are subject to review and change and/or modification based upon
the time constraints of the course and specific learning requirements of the students.

METHOD OF EVALUATION: Recognizing differences in learning styles, students will be evaluated in several different ways. Each component of a student's grade will be "weighed" differently, as determined by the instructor, and shared with the student approximately one week before the end of a grade reporting period. A student's grade will be based upon:
(a) classroom participation and appropriate classroom behavior
(b) skill quizzes - given as required to insure knowledge of certain basic facts or concepts - an example of this type of quiz would be a quiz on determining the least common denominator
(c) "pop" quizzes - are unannounced, usually covering material from the previous day or covered earlier in the class session - this type of quiz usually will have a point value no greater than 10 points
(d) regular quizzes - usually given weekly, covering the material learned during the week and reviewing previously learned material - approximately 15 to 20 minutes in length with the point value of a particular quiz ranging from 20 to
40 points
(e) classwork - problems are often solved as a class or in small groups in the classroom - students can be graded on this work, either collected at the end of the class session or as an attachment to the home work assignment collected the next day
(f) homework - HOMEWORK IS EXPECTED TO BE DONE - it will either be “spot” checked or collected daily, all homework is graded based as much upon a good faith effort on the part of the student to do the homework rather than the  absolute accuracy of the work - graded homework usually has a point value of 5 or 10 points - late work will receive a reduced grade - homework more than two days late will earn a grade of zero  (consideration is given for approved class absences)
(g) BONUS POINTS - bonus points are given at the discretion of the instructor for superlative classroom performances, either individually or collectively, OR for other specific activities - 1 BONUS POINT is equal to 0.25 points added to the
term average - no student may acquire more than 12 BONUS POINTS during a grade reporting period

MAKEUP: Make-up for missing classes, quizzes, or tests will be at some time mutually agreeable between  the student and the instructor. It is expected that the student make up all work in a time frame equal to the number of days absent. (For example, if one day is missed, the student has one day to make up missing work). Special arrangements can always be made for EXTRAORDINARY circumstances. The  instructor is usually in the building by 6:30 AM. The instructor will usually check his email at 5:00 PM  and 7:30 PM for academic questions. The address is:
        burtjh @ wbcvt.org (do not include spaces when entering this address)