Algebra 3

Ms. Miller Room 2021 smiller5@aisd.net http://mathblog.wordpress.com

About Me
Previously worked as a database programmer Education Castleberry High School (Fort Worth) UTA (Bachelors and Masters degrees in Mathematics) Interests Reading Playing the flute Woodworking, remodeling, sewing Astronomy, space exploration

Algebra 3
Welcome! There are three main goals for this class: Prepare you for College Algebra Explore Algebra 2 topics in more depth and detail Learn problem-solving techniques

Supplies
Please bring to class: Pencil and eraser Ring binder Calculator Notebook paper or spiral Failure to bring the required supplies can lower your class participation grade.

Grades
Your grade in this class will be based on the following: 10% 50% 15% 25% Class Participation Quizzes Problem Sets/Projects Test

Homework is not graded, but you will earn 2 points on your six weeks average for every assignment you complete on time.

Quizzes
Grades on the quizzes will be by objective on a scale of 0 to 4. That is, if the quiz contains two objectives, you will receive two different grades on that quiz. If you do not make a 4 on an objective, you will have two more opportunities during class to retake the objective. If you still have not made a 4, you may retake the objective again outside of class (limit one objective per day).

Problem Sets
Several times during the six weeks, you will be given a set of problems to solve. This is a required assignment. We will begin working on the problem set as a class, but you will be responsible for finalizing your work. You will write up your solutions to be turned in. Your grade will be based on the accuracy and completeness of your solutions.

Test
There will be one test per six weeks, usually at the end of the six weeks. Since the test will contain all of the objectives from this six weeks, I will treat the test as an additional quiz retake to improve your grade.

Class Rules
Treat each person and his or her property with respect. Do what I ask you to do when I ask you to do it. Do not talk when I am talking. No personal grooming. (I will confiscate.) No throwing. No food or drink in class. Follow all school rules and policies. Failure to follow the class rules will earn you detention with me after school on Friday.

Bathroom
If you need to use the bathroom during the times posted on the green sign, you do not need to ask permission. You may just grab my hall pass and go. If someone is already using my pass, you will need to wait until that person returns. If more than one person needs to go, work it out among yourselves.

New Schedule
One lunch period Advisory At the end of 3rd and 7th periods (12:09), any junior or senior who has passed all of his/her classes may go to lunch (until 1:20). Juniors and seniors who have not passed and all underclassmen will stay in their 3rd/7th period class until 12:29. Underclassmen will work on math skills. I dont know what upperclassmen will be doing.

Other New Stuff

Tardy policy If you are more than 15 minutes late to class, you must have a pass from your attendence office. Tardies are accumulated in all classes for a semester. Dress policy Holes in jeans may not show skin.

Visitors
If someone comes into our room, please do not call out to that person. Adultsthere are several administrators who could come by during class. They could be observing me or the class as a whole. If an adult comes into our room, they may or may not want to talk to you. Please be polite if they do. Students/Aides Ignore them unless I instruct you otherwise.

Office Hours
Subject to the whims of fate and school administrators, I will be available on the following days/times: After school until 4:00 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Before school (7:00) on A days. (I make no promise to be coherent.) Other times as necessary see me to make an appointment.

Textbook
Please be aware that our textbook is more expensive than usual. If you have to replace it, it will cost

$99.
You will not receive your diploma (or be allowed to walk the stage) if you have any fines against you.

Sliding Down the Intertubes

http://mathblog.wordpress.com I will post the PowerPoint notes for each lesson before class. I will also post the homework assignment and solutions for all homework. If you are absent, it is your responsibility to get the notes and homework. You are responsible for the work even if you are not in class.

Expectations
I expect each of you to Be in your seat when the bell rings. Have your supplies with you each day. Treat your fellow classmates and me as you would wish to be treated. Act like you have a positive attitude (even if you dont). Put forth your best effort. Ask for help if you need it, and be willing to help others when asked.

Goals
My goal is for this class to be a challenging, interesting course that will prepare you for whatever you choose to do in your education after high school. My goal is to treat everyone with respect. If you ever feel I have failed in this, please come see me. My goal is for everyone in this class to be successful. How well you succeed will depend on the the amount of effort you are willing to put forth, but I will help you in any way that I can.