AP Calculus AB – Course Syllabus
Mr. Neff jneff@bcsoh.org
Course Description
Calculus is the study of how things change. It provides a framework for modeling systems in
which there is change and a way to deduce the predictions of such models.
AP Calculus AB is an advanced placement course which allows students to earn up to one year
of college credit by passing the AP Exam (fee involved) given in May. Main topics include a wide
variety of limits and differential (slope)/integral (area) calculus problems presented graphically,
analytically, verbally, and numerically.
Mr. Neff’s Rationale
My main objective as the instructor of calculus is to allow a student to develop the knowledge,
motivation, curiosity, and skills to become a life-long learner who does not get caught up in the
memorization of theorems and formulas, but instead truly wishes to understand the mathematical
concepts and how they may apply to the world around them.
Secondary to this would be the hope that each student leaves this course with the knowledge
to succeed on the AP Calculus AB Exam, accelerating future math endeavors.
Most Important for success
1. Attend Class
2. Get sleep (8 hours?)
3. Remain Mentally Active During Class
4. Practice, Practice, Practice
5. Get help when necessary
6. Organization
Class Expectations
- Be on Time
- Be Prepared
- Be Honest
- Be an Active Student
- Be Respectful…to yourself, to others, and to the property of others
Everyday Supplies
Class Book, Graphing Calculator, Pen or Pencil, Organizer, i.e. 3-ringed binder (solely devote to math)
Binders should have:
Dividers (Notes, Work, Lined Paper, Graph Paper)
Loose-leaf Notebook Paper
Graph Paper
Straight edge/Ruler
Zip Pocket for Pens, Pencils, Graphing Calculator, etc.
Cell phones are not allowed to be out or in use during instructional and work times.
Homework
- Assigned at least three times per week
- Assignments will not be overwhelming, but meaningful to the day’s lesson
- Checked and Reviewed Daily
Get an AP Calculus AB Practice Workbook
You can purchase one at any bookstore for around $20. There are many different companies that
organized these, and the sooner you do this, the better. I will periodically give assignments over a
particular topic that you need to find in your workbooks and complete.
Plagiarism/Cheating of any kind will not be tolerated.
Help Available
- After school between 2:15-3pm.
- In my classroom during 7th, 8th, and 10th period (No pop-ins please – let me know ahead)
- The math lab (Room 308) is open for tutoring is open throughout the day. I will be in the math
lab during 6th period.
Grading
On any test or quiz it is the student’s responsibility to show the instructor as much as they
know. Partial credit should always be considered on any question. Never leave a short
answer/extended response question blank.
Suggestions for Success
1. Come prepared with your notebook, textbook, and pencil every day
2. Take notes in class every day. Write down what the teacher writes down on the overhead or
chalkboard.
3. Complete your homework assignments every day.
4. Check to see that you have done your homework correctly. If you find you have gotten problems
wrong, ask questions and correct them on your paper.
5. If you are having problems, get help right away. Don’t wait until you are totally lost the day before the
test to seek help.
6. Allow 30-45 minutes daily for math homework. If you have time in class to start the homework, use that
time wisely.
7. Students who work hard and have a positive attitude rarely fail.
August 19, 2015
Dear Parents,
Please read thoroughly the "Classroom Procedures" outlined in the document attached to this sheet. If
you have any questions or concerns please contact me through the Brunswick High School Office at 330-2730490 or e-mail me at jneff@bcsoh.org. After you and your student have read the procedures, please complete
the bottom portion of this sheet and return it to me by Friday, August 21. Please also see that all supplies have
been purchased by this date as well. I would also like to take this opportunity to invite you to our Open House
on Wednesday, August 19 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.
Thank you
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PLEASE READ, SIGN, AND RETURN THE FOLLOWING BY FRIDAY, AUGUST 21.
I have seen and read the AP Calculus classroom procedures and requirements for my son/daughter,
________________________________________, in Mr. Neff’s math class.
I agree that my son/daughter will follow these rules and procedures and am aware that there are
consequences, either disciplinary or relative to my child’s grade that will result from not following these
procedures.
___________________________________
Signature of parent or guardian
___________________________________
Email of parent or guardian
Additional Comments or Questions:
________________
Date