Algebra 3

Algebra 3
Fall Semester 2007
Mr. Michael Shallow
shallow@fulton.k12.ga.us

Content: This course covers chapters P, 1-3, and section 4.4. Topics include Functions and Equations; Linear Equations and Functions; Graphing Functions; Polynomial Functions, and Conics. Algebra 3 incorporates Georgia High School Test objectives 1-11, 13-33, 25-32, and 37-45.

Textbook: Houghton Mifflin, Algebra and Trigonometry ($69.30)

Required Materials: Textbook, paper, sharpened pencils, three- ring binder with dividers.

Optional Materials: If you purchase a graphing calculator, a TI-83+ or TI-84 is recommended. Graphing calculators are powerful mathematical tools. Through their use students can visualize problems more quickly, discover mathematical properties, and validate their work done with pencil and paper. They must be used appropriately. Graphing calculators are not substitutes for students learning mathematical concepts and processes. They are to be used to enhance student learning. Calculator Arcade game playing is not permitted.
There is a set of calculators for students to use in the classroom. In order to ensure security, students that opt to use their own calculator may have the memory cleared before and after a test is given in class. Calculators which are more powerful and more sophisticated than the TI-84 may not be used on a test.


Grading Policy
These are the guidelines set by Fulton County for computing grades.
Grading Scale:
90%- 100% = A
80%- 89% = B
70%- 79% = C
Below 70%= F

Grades will be determined by the following:
Final Exam: 15%
Tests/Projects: 50%
Quizzes: 20%
Homework/Classwork: 15%


Tests: There will be at least one test per chapter. Each test will be announced in advance. Students absent for the review for a test will be expected to take the test with the class on the scheduled day.

Quizzes: Quizzes will be given periodically. Most will be announced 1-2 days in advance.

Homework: Homework is assigned daily. Students are expected to write each question, draw all pictures, show all work, and correct their mistakes. No late homework will be accepted.

Final Exam: There will be a cumulative final exam at the end of the semester. If you maintain an 80% Homework Grade, your final grade can replace your lowest test score – but you must pass the final.




Classroom Expectations:
Be on time!!
Respect yourself, respect others, and respect the classroom environment.
Be prepared and ready to begin when the bell has rung.
Participate in all activities.
Follow all school rules as described in the Student Handbook.


Make-up Work: Make-ups for tests and quizzes should be arranged by appointment before or after school. Tests and quizzes should be made up outside of class time as to ensure that the student does not fall further behind. All other missed work should be made up according to the Fulton County Schools Policy described in the Student Handbook. Students who know they will miss class in advance must request work in advance. This includes arranging to take tests and quizzes ahead of time.



FULTON COUNTY RECOVERY POLICY:
When all class work required to date has been completed and the student has demonstrated a legitimate effort to meet all course requirements including attendance, opportunities designed to allow students to recover from a low or failing cumulative grade will be allowed. The teacher determines this recovery assignment. Students are responsible for contacting the teacher concerning recovery opportunities. Teachers will establish, at their discretion and with the concurrence of the department head, a reasonable time period for recovery work to be completed during the semester. All recovery work must be completed ten school days prior to the end of the semester.

CHATTAHOOCHEE HIGH SCHOOL GUIDELINES:
Chattahoochee High School Mathematics Department Guidelines:
Recovery is available to students with a cumulative grade below 74% after a minimum of two (2) major grades. The maximum grade a student can earn for a recovery activity is 70 %. There will be only one recovery opportunity per failed major assignment or test. The individual teacher will determine the means of recovery. THE STUDENT MUST INITIATE THE PROCESS WITHIN FIVE (5) DAYS OF NOTIFICATION OF A FAILING GRADE ON A MAJOR ASSIGNMNET/TEST.



Integrade and Parent Connect: Student grades will be updated in Integrade at least every two weeks. Quizzes and tests will be entered into Integrade to show when they will be given once they are announced to the students. A grade for homework will be updated every two weeks with assignment grades entered as a two-week grade. Parent Connect is a software program that links parents and teachers by allowing parents to access their student’s grades, attendance, assignments and discipline via the Internet. All parents are encouraged to register for this service.


Extra Help: With the exception of staff meetings and appointments with other school activities, I am available for extra help most every day before and after school. Students desiring extra help must notify me in advance so that I will be in the room at the arranged time.