“Math is not a spectator sport!  The more we practice, the better we get.” 

PRECALCULUS MATH 40S

Topics:            -Circular Functions                                       -Probability   

                        -Transformations                                          -Conics           

                        -Exponents and Logarithms                         -Geometric Sequences         

                        -Permutations, Combinations, Binomial Theorem

General Information:                       

1.          As you have discovered, the pre-calculus courses are demanding.  To do well,  you should have a decent mark at the previous level, and most important of all,  good work habits.  Arrive to each class on time and ready to work.  Always bring a scientific calculator, red pen, ruler, pencils, as well as your book, notes, and completed assignments. 

2.         Successful students ask questions in class when they don’t understand.  Another suggestion:  recopy your notes from class each day into a scribbler.  This provides a great review of the material at a slower pace.  Then tackle your assignment, referring back to your notes.  Always carefully check your solutions against those in the back of the book.  Don’t just look at the final answer, but pay careful attention to the steps getting there!  Highlight questions which give you trouble, ask about them in class, and then try them again in a day or two.

3.         Keep your assignments organized in a binder.  Spot checks will be done and credit will not be given for work left at home.  There will be an assignment and mental math everyday for which all students are responsible, so good attendance is essential.  Arrange to have a homework buddy, a classmate you can call when you cannot avoid being away.  Also arrange a time with me to make up missed mental maths prior to the next test.

Students can access supplementary material (especially useful if they are going to be away) by going to www.edu.gov.mb.ca/ks4

Click on the following:  Distance LearningàWeb-Based CoursesàPreview Courses

4.         A test will normally be given every second week.  If missing it is unavoidable, see me to make other arrangements before you miss it.  In case of illness, have your parent phone the school the morning of the test.   Failure to do so will result in a zero. 

5.         I will promptly mark and return tests (usually the next class).  You will be asked to get a parent to sign your tests.  (The purpose is to keep them informed about your progress.)  In return, I will drop your lowest test mark of the semester.

6.         Term marks are based on tests (75%) and mental math/assignments (25%).  Your final mark is based on term marks (70%) and a final exam (30%).  You must have a final mark of at least 50% (including at least 40% on the exam) to obtain the course credit.  Note that some university programs have a prerequisite requiring 60% or higher in this course (40S Pre-Calculus).

7.         If you have the math skills and you’re willing to put in the effort, there

is no reason why you shouldn’t do well in this course, and enjoy it!  If you don’t understand something, come for extra help immediately, before  you get behind.  

Extra help times are posted in the classroom:

Mornings (starting at 8:15):  Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday

After school (3:30 – 4:30):  Wednesday

J         Concerns?  Problems?  Let’s talk now!  Have a good semester!   J