Mathématiques pré-calcul 40S

General information

This is the final course in the pre-calculus mathematics stream. It satisfies the mathematics requirement for all post-secondary courses. The course is evaluated by a two part provincial exam at the end of the semester. Students in this course will be exposed to many interesting topics and abstract concepts. A student should have an interest in higher-level mathematics and should be prepared to work hard.

Topics

circular functions           identities                       transformations

binomial theorem        sample theory             exponents and logarithms

permutations                 combinations                probability

conic sections               geometric sequences

Evaluation

The first term is weighted at 30% and the second term is worth 40%. The final exam is worth 30% and has two parts. Part I is one hour calculator and is comprised of about 10 open response questions for approximately 35 points. Part II is two hours non-calculator and is comprised of about 15 one mark multiple choice questions, 15 one mark mental maths questions and about ten open response questions for approximately 35 marks. Students may return to part I without their calculator after the first hour. The provincial exam mark is printed separately on the final report. Daily calcul rapide, homework and homework checks comprise 30% of the term mark and unit tests account for 70% of the term mark. My unit tests parallel the format of the provincial exam so that the students have plenty of advance opportunity to practice all types of questions. I also allow enough time for a thorough exam review that includes at least three previous provincial exams, one of which is a final three hour test.        

Materials

The students require a scientific calculator for certain topics in this course. The textbook is a set of 60 exercises with answers and full solutions. The full solutions are a useful tool in correcting daily work. Many handouts and notes supplement this course. I also give the students quiz booklets that have sample test questions with solutions. The formula sheet may be used on all tests and the same one will be included on the provincial exam.