MYP Mathematics
Pre-AP Algebra 2
2011-2012 Course Syllabus
Instructor: Ms. Stephanie Nicewarner
E-Mail Address: snicewarner@dentonisd.org
Conference Periods – 4A and 2B
Phone: 940-369-2077
Tutorials: Mon - Thu 4:15 – 5:00
www.dentonisd.org/snicewarner
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course will cover the topics in the TEKS so that students will learn to solve problems that exist in the real world using Algebra.
We will study Foundations of Functions, Linear Functions, Quadratic Functions, Matrices, Inverse Functions, Square Root
Functions, Polynomials, Exponential Functions, Logarithmic Functions, Conic Sections, and Sequences and Series. This is a PreAP course designed to prepare students for their future Pre-AP and AP math classes. In addition, the instruction for this class will
incorporate strategies from the International Baccalaureate program. Students will continue to aspire to reflect those characteristics
of the IB Learner Profile. As a result of the high standards, success in this class will depend on the motivation of the student.
Students MUST keep up with their assignments, ask questions, follow directions, and take advantage of tutoring when necessary to
guarantee success. Math is not a spectator sport!
TEXTBOOK:
McDougal Littell: Algebra 2
Online textbook: www.classzone.com, activation code: 2629714-60
EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENT LEARNING (TEKS):
Are available online at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/teks/
SUPPLIES NEEDED:
BRING DAILY

Loose-leaf notebook paper & binder or you may use
a spiral notebook for notes, but you must have a
binder or folder for handouts

Graph paper

Pencils for homework (pen not accepted)

Red pens for homework grading

Black Composition Book
BRING ONCE

Box of Tissues

Four AAA Batteries for graphing calculators (to be
left in class)
CALCULATOR:
TI-Nspire calculators are available for students to use in the classroom. In general however, school calculators may not be
borrowed for use at home or elsewhere outside of the classroom. It is highly recommended that Pre-AP students have their own
calculators. Although many different brands of graphing calculator are available and can be used, in-class instruction will be based
on the TI calculator. As a result, students purchasing a new calculator may find it beneficial to consider a TI calculator. Students
considering AP Calculus as a future math course should consider the TI-89 series of calculator because of its more advanced
problem solving capabilities. For some tests I may require student owned calculators to be cleared both immediately before and
after the testing session. Students not wanting their calculators cleared will be required to use one of the school calculators for the
test.
MYP MISSION STATEMENT
The MYP (Middle Years Program) covers the 9th and 10th Grade portion of the International Baccalaureate. The IB aims to develop
inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world through intercultural
understanding and respect. To this end the organization works with schools, governments and international organizations to
develop challenging programs of international education and rigorous assessment. These programs encourage students across the
world to become active, compassionate and lifelong learners who understand that other people, with their differences, can also be
right.
AIMS
As a part of the Middle Years Program (MYP) of the International Baccalaureate program, the aims of the teaching and study of
mathematics are to encourage and enable the student to:
 Recognize that mathematics permeates the world around us
 Appreciate the usefulness, power, and beauty of mathematics
 Enjoy mathematics and develop patience and persistence when solving problems
 Understand and be able to use the language, symbols and notation of mathematics
 Develop mathematical curiosity and use inductive and deductive reasoning in solving problems
 Become confident in using mathematics to analyze and solve problems both in school and real life situations
 Develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to pursue further studies in mathematics
 Develop abstract, logical and critical thinking and the ability to reflect critically upon their work and the work of others
 Develop a critical appreciation of the use of information and communication technology in mathematics
 Appreciate the international dimension of mathematics and its multicultural and historical perspectives
Nicewarner – Pre-AP Algebra 2 Syllabus
Page 2
ROLE OF THE MYP AREAS OF INTERACTION
Throughout the year, all areas of interaction will be addressed. The areas of interaction are approaches to learning, health and
social awareness, environment, community service and human ingenuity.
COURSE OUTLINE
The instructor reserves the right to modify as needed.
1st Six Weeks: Number Systems, Linear Functions, Matrices, Quadratic Functions
2nd Six Weeks:, Quadratics Functions, Polynomial Functions
3rd Six Weeks:, Inverse Functions, Exponential & Logarithmic Functions
4th Six Weeks: Rational Functions, Conics
5th Six Weeks: Probability, Sequences, Series
6th Six Weeks: Begin Trigonometry
GRADING PROCEDURES: DISTRICT POLICY
Tests 60%, Quizzes 25%, and Homework 15%.
Late Work: Assignments will be assigned daily. You are required to complete your assignment by the date due. Assignments will
be graded for completion and/or accuracy. As a matter of policy, for a homework question to be accepted as complete, the work
leading to an answer must be shown. Assignments showing only answers with no supporting work will not be accepted.
Assignments that are not accepted are returned to the student not graded and treated as if they had never been turned in.
Due to the fast paced nature of the course, students should not fall behind on their assignments. If a student is absent, it is their
responsibility to obtain missed assignments and notes. Assignments that were due the day you were absent are due the day you
return. I will not remind students to turn in missed work. After the due date, but before the test on that material, late work (not due to
absence) will receive a maximum grade of 80%. After the test date, but before the end of the grading period that assignment may
be turned in for 50% of the points possible. Students that are absent due to a school activity must get assignments in advance.
They should be current with the rest of the class when they return. This is school policy.
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT
Classroom assessment methods in MYP/Pre-AP Algebra 2 will cover a range of assessment methodologies, including selected
response, constructed response, and performance–based assessments such as performance tasks, portfolios, teacher
observations and conferences which will be evaluated using MYP criterion rubrics in knowledge, concepts, skills and
organization/presentation.
MYP ASSESSMENT CRITERIA AND MYP MATH OBJECTIVES
Criterion A:
Criterion B:
Criterion C:
Criterion D:
Knowledge and Understanding
Investigating Patterns
Communication in Mathematics
Reflection in Mathematics
Sign-Up for E-Alerts & Parent Connection (Gradespeed)
Being signed up for e-alerts will allow you to get an email every time I updated my web page for school wires. On my page, there
will be a quick link to email me, a tutorial schedule, major assignments, and an electronic copy of my syllabus. Depending on the
unit, notes, extra credit, and minor assignments will also be posted.
In order to sign up for e-alerts, go to the Denton High School home page: http://www.dentonisd.org/dentonhs/site/default.asp. Under
the Parent tab to the top, there is a drop down selection: E-Alerts. Follow the instructions to sign up for the e-alerts. You can sign
up for every class your child is in. Having access to Parent Connection and Gradespeed will allow you to not only monitor your
child’s grades, but his/her attendance.
In order to sign up for Gradespeed, go to the Denton High School home page: http://www.dentonisd.org/dentonhs/site/default.asp.
Under the Parent tab at the top, there is a link: Parent Connection. Follow the instructions to sign up for Gradespeed. All of your
child’s classes should be available for you to view.
THREE WEEK PROGRESS REPORTS
I send out a three-week progress report on the Wednesday and Thursday of the 4 th week of each six weeks for students who are
earning 75 and below. These progress reports include every assignment and the scores on each assignment, as well as an
average to date. My Gradespeed account is updated regularly as I strive to enter my grades within a week of collecting them so
that you may monitor your child’s progress weekly.
CLOSING REMARKS
I am very excited about this school year and working with the students in my class. Parental support is greatly
appreciated, and I hope to speak with all of my students' parents at some point during the year. Please call or e-mail me
with any questions. I will be happy to discuss your child's progress at any time.
The Denton Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, handicap, race, color, and or national origins in its educational programs.
Admission to career programs is based on age, grade, interest, aptitude and ability. Lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admissions and
participation in any educational programs.
Nicewarner – Pre-AP Algebra 2 Syllabus
Page 3
Name_______________________ Subject/Block _______________________
By signing below, you indicate that you have received the syllabus and course contract for MYP/Pre-AP Algebra 2.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Please sign syllabus and bring supplies by ____________________. Thank you!
Student Signature __________________________ Date _________________
Parent Name ______________________________________
Parent Signature ___________________________________
Address__________________________________________
City, State, Zip_____________________________________
Work # ___________________________ Home # ________________________
Cell # ____________________________ E-mail __________________________
Additional comments that might help me better teach this student:
The Denton Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, handicap, race, color, and or national origins in its educational programs.
Admission to career programs is based on age, grade, interest, aptitude and ability. Lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admissions and
participation in any educational programs.