Course Outline
Advanced Math/SFU Math 40
2011-2012
Mrs. Riddle
Purpose: To study and master advanced mathematical topics including Trigonometry and Algebra III skills and to apply the learned skills in
real world applications using various means of instructional strategies and technology applications, including graphing calculators. These
problem-solving skills will also be useful on standardized tests such as SATs and college entrance/placement exams.
Grades: The earned grade for a marking period will be determined by the number of points received on tests/projects, quizzes,
homework/classwork, notebook/class participation, and portfolio entries:





Tests/Projects.……………………..60-85 points
Quizzes……………………………….20-50 points
Homework/Classwork……………2-20 points
Notebook/Class Participation…….25 points
Problem Solving Portfolio..............4 points for each entry
Tests in math are to be given on Mondays and Thursdays. Tests typically range from 60-85 points and take all period to complete.
Occasionally throughout the year we will conclude a chapter with a performance-based project that illustrates what was presented during
the chapter. These projects are worth the same amount of points as a chapter test. Essentially the projects replace the chapter test for
that chapter. You may not have a chapter test or project for every chapter. Sometimes the chapter will consist of larger quizzes that are
worth test scores but cover less than a chapter’s worth of material.
Quizzes will be given usually once a week. Quizzes are usually 20-50 points and usually take less than half the period unless they are
taking the place of a test grade (see above). Quizzes could be given any day of the week.
Homework is a very important part of this course and thus will be assigned almost every day. If you decide not to do your homework in
this course, you will struggle to maintain a passing grade. Tests and quizzes come from the homework at least 60% of the time. I will
check homework at least once a week and they may be worth 3 or 5 points depending on how often I decide to check homework. In
order to get the points, you must have the assignment completed. Note: All assignments must be turned in on time to receive full credit.
 Full credit
You must have the assignment complete, or at least show you attempted every problem, and show your own work.
 Partial Credit
If only ½ or ¾ of the assignment is complete, partial credit will be awarded to the student.
 0 Points
A zero will be given to any student that does not do the assignment, less than half is completed, or does not have it in class
with him/her the day it is due, which is always the next class period after the homework was assigned. After a student
receives three zeros, an after-school detention will be given.
 About once a week or every other week, an assignment will be collected for correctness. These homework points will vary
between 10 and 20 points.
Notebooks will be collected at the end of every marking period. ***A REQUIRMENT of all courses is to have a three ring binder, and
must be brought to class every day. *** Binders will be provided unless you would like one of your own. If you would like your own
binder, you must have it by the Friday of the first week of school _________, or one will be issued to you. Daily class participation is
calculated in this grade also. Notebook checks are worth 25 points.
Problem Solving Portfolio: Throughout the course we will be writing about the mathematics that we are learning in class. These types of
problems will mirror the open-ended questions that were given on the PSSA test. You will keep these writings in a portfolio.
Absenteeism: In the event that you miss my class, it is your responsibility to get any missed work. Homework assignments will be posted
in the front of the room daily and/or weekly.
Need Help? I am here if you need help, but you need to ask me questions. Failure to ask for help could result in failing the course.
Reminder: YOU NEED 4 MATH CREDITS TO GRADUATE! Please do not wait until you are failing to get help. Ask questions in
class, study, do your work, and you will do well in my class.
Parents and Guardians;
You may reach me via:
 Email at klr@blwd.k12.pa.us
 By school phone 742-2274 (from (10:30-11:00))
 Voicemail—Call 742-2280, my extension is 4201
Please sign that you have read the above and understand the
course outline for this year.
Student___________________________________________
Parent/Guardian____________________________________