LHS Mathematics | Mr. Kresser 2005-2006

Algebra II (LV2) course guide

The information and policies in this guide are subject to change. The latest version can be found on the web at lhs.lexingtonma.org/Teachers/Kresser . Course homework assignments and relevant links can also be found at this URL.

Course Description

This course will give students the firm mathematical foundation needed to succeed in future math and science courses as well as the confidence to competently apply mathematics to real world situations.    The precise topic coverage is outlined in the LHS Program of Studies.  Two major focuses of the course will be:
  1. Application and problem solving.   To many, mathematics seems very abstract and disconnected to everyday life.   We'll work hard on developing  problem solving skills to apply to real-world problems so you can experience the various ways mathematics is important to our lives.
  2. Repetition and skill development.  Everyone knows that it takes practice to be really good at anything.  This course will not always be exciting or interesting to you, but I can guarantee that any work I give you will not be "busy work," but rather work designed to hone some skill we actaually need.  This course also may not be easy for you.  I can promise, however, that you will be given the time and support to successfully complete any challenge I put before you.
Material Requirements

Everyday you will need to have the following items with you:
  1. Graphing Calculator (TI-83 or eqivalent).  If you do not have a calculuator, you have a couple of options:   you can buy one on your own (various retailers) or you can purchase one though the school's Volume Purchase Program (details in class) .  If for any reason you are unable to acquire a calculator, the Math Department offers a TI-83 Loaner Program and we can loan you a calculator for the year.  If you think you might be interested in borrowing a calculator, please contact me as soon as possible.
  2. Usual supplies.   Just get in the habit of having appropriate materials with you when you come to class.   Pencil, paper..... you know what i'm talking about!

You are not required to bring any textbook to class, but you must have your chapter packets with you everyday.  

Class Requirements

There is a single rule of conduct in this class.

  1. Be respectful to your classmates and your instructor .

If I ever feel that you have violated this basic tenet I will ask you to briefly stay after class to discuss the issue. If necessary, I will ask you to stay after school (during Z block) to discuss the issue further. Such action will generally be followed by parental and administrative notification. Actions that I consider disrespectful include tardiness, belligerence, excessive talking, or any other inappropriate or childish action.  If you don't know if something is acceptable, ask me.   

Grading

Quarter grades: approximately  50% from tests and quizzes and 50% from homework/classwork.  

Homework is clearly an important part of this class.   Take advantage of that fact by completing your assignments in a timely manner.  The cumulative final exam in this class will count for 15% of the total final grade.   If you do better on the final exam than you did over the course of the year, I may count your final as a higher percentage of your final grade.  I'll say more about this in class.

Absences / Makeups 

Whenver you are absent, it is your responsibility to find out what you have missed. I will provide reasonable support to help you catch up. If you are absent the day of a test you will be required to make arrangements to make up that test on the day your return.  Failure to make up work in a responsible manner will displease me (see class requirements). If at all possible you should contact me ahead of time to make arrangements. I check email frequently and often that is the best way to inform me that you will be absent. My email address is below.

Contact Information / Support

My office is located in room 713, the Math Department office area. The best way to contact me outside of class is to either email me at my school address: tkresser@sch.ci.lexington.ma.us or just drop by my desk in 713.  I generally keep very open and flexible office hours. I'll post a schedule of my free blocks in 816 early in the year. I encourage you to come see me whenever you are unclear about the homework or the lectures.   Good luck!   Don't be hesitant to come see me if your having trouble - I'd like to help if i can.