Algebra II Course Syllabus 2015/2016
Mr. Doug Ketch – B130
Phone: 376-2404
E-mail: ketchd@mustangps.org
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This class introduces and develops the concepts of quadratic relations and functions,
polynomial functions, radical functions, rational functions, exponential and logarithmic
functions, and conic sections. There is an emphasis on graphing, the understanding of
translations, and locating important parts of graphs. Students will understand and
communicate models in four ways – graphically, algebraically, numerically, and verbally.
We will explore arithmetic and geometric sequences and series, matrices, probability,
and statistics. Computations in this class require mastery of Algebra I skills. There is a
required End of Instruction Test in late April or early May.
MATERIALS
Required daily: A positive attitude, a spiral notebook or 3 ring binder, and pens or
pencils. A minimum of a scientific calculator is required for this class (such as a TI-30XS
Multiview) and a graphing calculator (ex. TI-83/TI-84) is highly recommended. Some
calculators are prohibited in this class; see the ACT list of prohibited calculators:
http://www.actstudent.org/faq/calculator.html.
CLASS GRADE
30% - Independent Practice Problems, Practice Quizzes, Class Activities
70% - Tests, Benchmarks, Semester Exam
CLASSROOM POLICIES
I expect the rules in the handbook to be followed at all times. These rules are here to
provide an environment conducive to learning. Any discipline actions required in the
handbook will be given. I have only three classroom policies and they sum up the entire
handbook.
1. Be respectful – to yourself, to others, and to the learning environment.
2. Be prepared – each day with your assignments, supplies, and positive attitude.
3. Be prompt – Come to class daily. All personal business should be taken care of
before class. 3 tardies = 1 absence and a referral for 3 detentions ☹
CELL PHONES
I expect cell phones to be in your backpacks, purse, or pocket next to your desk. If you
have your phone out you will be ask to put it away and place your backpack, or purse at
the front of the room. If you do not have a backpack, purse, or bag of some type your
cell phone will be placed in my desk. If you have your phone out again I will contact your
parents and then the next time you will take it to the office.
SUBSTITUTES: Treat substitutes with respect. All work assigned by a sub is due at the
end of the period. All regular policies and procedures should be followed.
INDEPENDENT PRACTICE PROBLEMS
-Practice problems will be assigned daily and reviewed the next class period. These
problems will not be counted as a daily grade; however, if completed, one chapter’s
worth of these problems may be handed in to replace a practice quiz grade.
-Practice quizzes will be given approximately two times each week, and the content will
focus on what was learned in the previous lesson. Each problem must show ALL work
to receive credit.
-Your FIVE lowest practice quiz grades will be dropped at the end of the semester.
-No make-ups or re-takes will be permitted for practice quizzes. If you are absent on the
day of a practice quiz, you will not receive a grade (exempt). However, you are strongly
advised to check your understanding of the material as soon as possible. You are
responsible for completing all material on the test, including material covered when
absent. Don’t let yourself fall behind. Please come see me or another teacher.
PARTICIPATION In the event of group activities, you will be awarded a grade for your contribution to your
group as well as the class. This grade will also be determined by your ability to get
along with others and contribute. In the real-world, everyone must be able to work with
people, even when they don’t always agree. It is important that you leave your
differences at the door before you come to class.
TESTS/QUIZZES –
Quizzes will be used to make a quick assessment of your knowledge. Tests are
cumulative and have both multiple-choice and show your work type questions. Take
good notes! Complete your assignments in a timely manner. If you are absent, arrange
to get a copy of someone’s notes.
BENCHMARK AND SEMESTER TESTS
These tests are cumulative - they will cover everything up to the test. To be successful,
study your notes and correct your old tests/quizzes. Take advantage of tutoring
throughout the entire semester rather than trying to cram at the end! Even if you are
exempt, take the semester test. If you are exempt, I will only count the semester test
grade if it will help your grade. It is a valuable experience, and you will not be exempt
from semester exams in college courses.
Practice Problems Deadlines should be followed for turning in work and for making up tests. Practice
problems are due by the date of the test that covers that material. If you miss a test, you
must make arrangements to come in BEFORE or AFTER school to make it up. You will
have no more than 3 days to complete a make-up exam or a zero will be recorded.
There is a binder with available time to make up the test in the classroom. You are
responsible for signing the binder and showing up at the time you signed up for.
Extenuating circumstances will be evaluated on a case by case.
The teacher reserves the right to change the syllabus at any time if necessary.