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Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Advanced Algebra II Assignments
Unit 2 – Chapter 3 – Matrices

Assignment #1
Section 3-5
Pg 191 # 5-27 odd # 30, 31, 37-47 odd

Assignment #2
Section 3-6
Pg 199-200 # 3-35 odd

Assignment #3
Section 3-7
Pg 208 # 23-37 odd, 40, 41, 43, 47-59 all

Assignment #4
Section 3-7
Pg 208 #29-38 all #3-17 odd

Review Assignment
Pg 224 -226 #18-35 all

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Advanced Algebra II Assignments
Unit 1 – Chapter 3 – Systems of Equations

Assignment #1
Section 3-1
Pgs 156-158 #1, 2, 6-11, 15, 16, 20-25, 28-31, 37, 49, 51

Assignment #2
Section 3-2
Pgs 164-167 #1, 2, 6-10, 18-22, 27, 31-35, 43-53 odd, 55, 56, 72-74

Assignment #3
Section 3-4
Pgs 182-183 #3-19 odd #25-35 odd #39

Assignment #4
Section 3-4
Pg 182 #10-20 even (USE MATRICES TO SOLVE)

Review Assignment
Chapter 3 – Systems
Pg 222 #4-16 all

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Advanced Algebra II Syllabus

Class Policies and Guidelines
Mr. Johnson – Room# A-204
Summit High School 2010-2011

Summit Phone #: 322-3300
Room Phone #: 322-3358
matt.johnson@bend.k12.or.us

Class Blogspot: http://advalgebra2-1011.blogspot.com/

Overview:
The Advanced Algebra series at Summit High is a highly successful mix of traditional and contextual approaches to both the teaching and learning of the basic concepts of Algebra. This course will blend traditional aspects of Algebra with today’s best practices in discourse and discovery of mathematics all through proficiency-based learning system. The pacing of this class is rigorous, but will sufficiently prepare students interested in Pre-Calculus and AP Calculus. The text in this course is brand new, and updated with the latest in support materials. Students are expected to read carefully each assigned chapter section, and fully utilize the online learning supplements. This course will also allow for group-centered learning that promotes the intersection of both a rigorous general knowledge of mathematics but also the deep understanding of its practical application. In this department, students are encouraged and required to be their own academic advocate. If a student is struggling, falling behind, needs additional resources, it is the students responsibility to approach and open communication with the teacher.

Some of the expected Topics to be covered in this course:
Linear Systems, Quadratic Functions, Polynomial Functions, Radical Functions, Logarithmic Functions, Rational Functions, Conic Sections, and Trigonometric Identities and Functions.

Needed Materials:
• Course Book is provided
• Pens and Pencils
• 3 Ring Binder
• Dividers and Notebook Paper – Assignments need to be done on paper that can be easily turned in.
• Spiral Notebook (for note keeping and warm ups)
• Basic 4-function or Scientific Calculator
• Online Access

Grading Policies:
This course uses a combination of elements in a traditional grading system and a Proficiency Based Grading System. Your tests and assessments will be graded using Proficiency Based Grading, but you will receive a traditional letter grade for each unit of study.

Overall Grades:
There will be approximately 10 units in this class, and your overall grade will be determined by averaging the performance on the each of the 10 Unit Grades in addition to the Midterm and Final Exam.

Unit Grades:
A unit grade is determined from your performance on both the Essential portion and Advanced portion on the assessment in addition to completion of the homework, class work, quizzes, extension problems, etc. The goal of Proficiency Based Grading is for students to master most, if not all, of the Essential topics. With this in mind, students will be allowed to retake every chapter test to improve their scores. The grade for that Unit is determined by their performance on these topics. The one lowest topic grade will be dropped. Of the remaining topic grades, the lowest score will determine the unit grade. Students will be given the opportunity to re-take any section to demonstrate they have improved their understanding. The scoring rubric for the proficiency based assessments is as follows:

- Mastery (M) implies that a student thoroughly understands a concept and can communicate about their thinking.
- Proficiency (P) implies that a student understands the vital part of the concept, but may make computational (not conceptual) errors.
- aTtempted (T) implies that the students response is incorrect or lacking necessary communication.
- No response (N) implies that a student left an item blank or has not yet been assessed on this item.

Homework:
Homework assignments are meant for additional practice and a continuation of the development of the topics we discuss in class. Assignments will be given every day we have class, and will be due the following class period. Assignments will be worth points, and have a direct impact on your overall grade.
Homework assignments will be posted online, in class and also clearly announced at the end of each class. If you are absent, you are still expected to complete the homework for that evening. If you know you will be absent, plan ahead and be sure to check online regularly.

Retake Policy:
If you desire, you have the opportunity to demonstrate improved understanding of any chapter/unit by retaking each Unit test. Students are allowed only one opportunity to retake and it must take place on or before the next unit test. This gives students approximately 2 to 3 weeks to re-take a test. In order to retake a chapter/unit test, the following MUST be completed and attached to the cover sheet:
1. The original test returned.
2. Corrections to the original test on a separate sheet of paper.
3. All assignments from that chapter/unit with all work included. (must be clearly labeled to count)
4. Evidence of Potentially Improved Understanding

The Blog:
A blog, short for web log, has been created to keep an online record of the homework, policies, activities, discussions and questions from this class.
Note: Although it has never been a problem in the past, I want to remind you that all school and classroom policies apply to the blog, so there are no rude, sexual, profane or inappropriate behaviors allowed. Violations will result in automatic removal and follow-up disciplinary actions. This is meant to serve as a learning tool so be respectful and use it as one.

Participation, Behavior, Absent and Tardy Policy:
- In class activities and daily participation is required. Students should expect to engage regularly in dialog and discussion with both their peers and teachers.
- This class promotes an equitable safe and encouraging environment for all students. There is a zero tolerance policy towards discrimination, sexism, negative or abusive behavior and language.
- If you are absent you are responsible to make up any missing work or tests. You can either check the blog, the assignment wall, or ask another student in class.
- Three or more tardies and you will clean my desks! After that, further disciplinary action will result.

Please note that at any time, I reserve the right to change these policies as I see best for learning and the students.

If you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact me via my e-mail at matt.johnson@bend.k12.or.us or phone at 332-3358.