Honors Algebra II: Ms. McDonald

(520) 225-5141 Email:

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Syllabus

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Supplies Needed

  • Composition Notebook (one or two per semester, recommend a graph paper notebook)
  • Scientific calculator (Graphing calculator if preferred)
  • Mechanical pencils
  • 1 or 2 highlighters

Grading Scale

A = (90 – 100%)

B = (80 – 89%)

C = (70 – 79%)

D = (60 – 69%)

F = (0 – 59%)

Grading Categories & Weights

  • Test & Quiz Scores = 55%
  • Semester Final = 15%
  • Classwork & Homework = 20%
  • Problems of the Week (POWs)= 10%

Homework Expectations

Review notes and activities

20-30 minutes to finish activities

Problems assigned

Study for exams

Homework grades determined by a self-assessment

Problems of the Week

Class Routines & Activities

Math Starters– Every day problems will be projected on screen as students enter the room. Students copy downand then solve the problems independently or with assistance from a learning partner. Problems are stored in the composition notebook. These problems focus on a diverse set of mathematics concepts such as those from geometry, algebra, probability, graphing, and number sense.

Notes – Students are expected to take good notes and store them for review in their composition notebook. Students can and should use their highlighter(s) to mark key vocabulary and important concepts.

In-Class Activities–We will work together and independently to thoughtfully answer questions and solve problems. Occasionally students will be asked to finish the activities for homework.

Supporting Algebra II Assignments – Students will receive additional assignments that support the learning from the text. We often will begin these in class and complete them as homework. Students will be expected to complete a project at the end of each semester

Whiteboards – We will use whiteboards to practice procedures we are learning as well as to help with the daily mental math practice.

Tests and Quizzes – Students will be given advance notice before taking tests and quizzes. I often (but not always) give students a practice exam that closely resembles the actual exam.

Themes and Major Concepts of Learning

  • Unit 1 – Foundations for Functions
  • Unit 2 – Quadratic Functions
  • Unit 3 – Polynomial Functions
  • Unit 4 – Exponential & Logarithmic Functions
  • Unit 5 – Rational & Radical Functions
  • Unit 6–Properties & Attributes of Functions
  • Unit 7 – Probability
  • Unit 8 – Data Analysis & Statistics
  • Unit 9 – Sequences & Series
  • Unit 10 – Trigonometric Functions
  • Unit 11 – Trigonometric Graphs & Identities
  • Unit 12 – Conic Sections

Expectations for Teacher & Students

Teacher / Students
  • Be positive
  • Be ready with a good lesson every day
  • Grade fairly
  • Never give up on students
  • Maintain a safe place to learn
  • Help students to meet and exceed the standards
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  • Bring math supplies every day
  • Learn, let others learn, and let Ms. McDonald teach
  • Work hard and focus
  • Learn to like… or even love math!
  • Keep phones and other electronic devices put away

Feel free to contact me (best by email) with any questions or concerns you may have.

Regards, Ms. McDonald