Precalculus
Ms. Andrea Cotton
Course Description
The approach is graphically based. Chapters that we cover include:
First Semester
Functions and Their Graphs: Chapter 1
Polynomial and Rational Functions: Chapter 2
Exponential and Logarithmic Functions: Chapter 3
Systems of Equations and Matrices: Chapter 7
Second Semester
Trigonometric Functions: Chapter 4
Trigonometric Identities and Conditional Equations: Chapter 5
Applications of Trigonometry: Chapter 6
Conics Chapter 8 .
Sequences and Series: Chapter 9(Optional)
Introduction to Limits
Course Prerequisites
Algebra 2 with a C or better second semester.
Course Materials
• Textbook: Precalculus Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic 7th Edition by Demana, Waits, Foley, & Kennedy.
• Organization system for returned papers (3 ring binder, etc.)
• Spiral Notebook
• Graph Paper
• Calculator: TI 84 Plus (no data cord needed)
• Pencils or Pens
• Colored correction pen (red, green purple, etc.).
Categories and Weighting
Homework/Participation 20%
Quizzes 30%
Tests 40%
Final 10%
Homework will be assessed on completion, effort, and organization. Homework is due the following class period
unless otherwise announced. Students may earn up to five points a day for homework.
Participation will be assessed on in class activities, weekly participation grade and notebook checks.
Either a test or quiz will be given approximately every week. Quizzes may be given without prior notice.
Quiz Replacements: Students are allowed to complete one quiz replacement per chapter provided that they score
higher on the chapter test then a quiz from that chapter.
Final semester grades are calculated by the following weighting: 45% quarter one, 45% quarter two and 10%
semester final.
Classroom Expectations
• Be Punctual
• Be Prepared
• Be Respectful
• Be Responsible
Late Work and Absences
Late Work
If a student does not complete a homework assignment they may complete it by the following day for up to three
points.
Absences
Absences will be addressed per the Parent/Student Handbook.
The student should take the initiative to make up all missing work.
a. The student must contact the teacher within 24 hours of his/her return to that particular class to arrange
for the make-up work and establish a timeline to completion.
b. If a student does not contact the teacher within 24 hours, the teacher is no longer obligated to accept the
work.
c. Teachers are not obliged to review in class to reteach what the others in attendance already covered.
d. To receive extra review help, a student is likely to have to meet with the teacher during non-class time if a
suitable time within the teacher’s regular work hours can be established.
If a student is absent on the day a test or quiz is given they must arrange to make it up within 1 week of the date
of absence. If the student does not make arrangements to make up the missing quiz or test they will receive a
zero for that assessment.
Prearranged Absences
If you know you will be absent, please communicate this so a timeline for making up assignments can be
established. If you know you will be absent on a quiz or test day please make arrangements to take the quiz or
test prior to your absence.
Tardy Policy
Students are allowed three tardies per quarter without consequence. The fourth tardy will result in detention.
Communicating Concerns
Please remember to follow the Matthew 18 Principle, outlined below, when dealing with conflicts. If you have
any questions or concerns the best way to get in touch with me is through email as I check it frequently. I will do
my best to respond within 48 hours. Please keep in mind that during weekends, holidays, or school breaks it may
take longer to receive a reply.
As Christians we believe that the Bible commands us to make every effort to live at peace and to resolve disputes
with each other in private or within the Christian Church (1 Cor. 6: 1-8, Matt. 18:15-20). At King’s Way, this is
referred to as the Matthew 18 Principle. The Bible describes the following sequence for resolving disputes:
1. Matters of concern should first be handled individual to individual in accordance with the Lord’s
commands in Matthew 18.
2. The second level, if necessary, is to involve the appropriate building principal or supervisor.
3. If resolution is not possible at this level, the third level is to bring the matter to the attention of the
Superintendent.
4. Final review may be requested from the Executive Pastor in cases where steps 1-3 have failed to bring
resolution. Step #4 is appropriate only when Steps #1-3 have failed.
Cheating Policy
Cheating occurs whenever a student copies another student’s work, allows his/her own work to be copied, does
another student’s work for him or her, turns in, as his/her own, material copied from another source without
proper documentation or engages in other conduct deemed cheating by King’s Way. At King’s Way, cheating is
viewed as a serious offense.
Extra Help
I am available after school on various days for math help. Please drop in or make an appointment ahead of time
to be sure I am available. Please don’t ever feel shy or embarrassed to ask for help!
Contact Information
Room: 5160
Email: AndreaCotton@kwcs.org
Website: cottonclassroom.weebly.com