Steve Saxenian
COURSE OVERVIEW
Geometry is a useful, challenging, fun topic in mathematics. Geometry applies to everything from art and architecture to science and engineering. Studying geometry improves your ability to think logically and work methodically. In this class, we will explore geometry using a variety of methods, including textbook problems, computer software applications, hands-on projects, and real-world applications. We will make connections to skills and concepts you learned in previous classes, especially in algebra.
Test Grade Policy: You can usually raise test grades up to 25% by making complete & accurate corrections to problems for which you lost credit and explaining what was wrong.
| Quizzes/Tests | 50% |
| Homework | 20% |
| Exam | 15% |
| Class Participation | 10% |
| Notebook | 5% |
Please see sections on completing homework and participating in class.
HOMEWORK
Success in this class depends on your doing the homework neatly, carefully, and completely every night. You should expect about 45 minutes of work almost every night. Write your name, the date, and the page numbers and problems assigned on the top of your paper. All work must be done in pencil and it should be neat, well organized, and include all relevant drawings. Read the section in your book and review class notes & examples before doing the homework. Check odd-numbered answers in the back of the book, make corrections as best you can, and circle the question numbers that you need help on. I encourage collaboration- work with your friends to solve problems, then write your solutions in your own words. Plagiarism is a serious offense; do not copy someone else’s work and call it your own. Come by room 300 after school any day that I am available for some extra help or just to do your work. You can also get help in the MathStudyCenter, room 133, Monday through Thursday, 2:30 to 4:00PM. Make corrections on HW the next day when we go over it in class. Rework all problems you miss to learn from your mistakes and prepare for tests.
Homework grading rubric
3: All problems tackled. Work shown neatly and completely.
2: More completion needed. One or more problems not tried.
1: Few problems tried. Shows minimal thought and effort.
0: Missing or forgotten.
CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS
1) In class, you will work a lot in groups. This is how groups function:
· Everyone is responsible for the work.
· Ask everyone else in your group before you ask me.
· Help anyone who asks.
· Point others TOWARD the solution—NEVER give away an answer
2) Show respect and kindness toward others. Listen to them, help them out, and be POSITIVE!
3) Take copious notes. Listen hard. Speak up – contribute your ideas, solutions, objections, criticisms, appreciations and questions – but raise your hand to be recognized. Calling out in class denies others the opportunity to participate.
4) No food or drink (other than water) allowed and music devices must be put away before class starts.
5) You should be in your seat with your sharpened pencil, HW out, notebook, and book when bell rings.
6) Foul language and gestures, hurtful comments, and disruptive behavior are unacceptable and will result in detentions, calls home, and referrals to the Dean of Students.
MAKEUP WORK
If you have been absent, it is your responsibility to check with me or a student in class to find out what homework and classwork you missed. You have two days to complete missed work. Work due on the day of your absence is due on the day that you return. Work missed during an unexcused absence must be done but will receive no credit.
Please come by for extra help whenever you need it: to start an assignment, prepare for a test, ask questions or share ideas. I will be available after school most days except Wednesday until 3:00.
Email: saxenias@arps.org
Please see section on homework and classroom expectations.
Note to Parents and Guardians
I look forward to teaching your child and meeting you as well. I ask that you review this course description with your son or daughter and then sign the slip below indicating that you have done so. Please have your child return the slip to me as soon as possible. Feel free to email (saxenias@arps.org) me at any time with thoughts or questions. Also I look forward to meeting you at parent orientation night on September 8 at 7:00 p.m..
One important note: I expect each student to maintain a well-organized 3-ring notebook and to bring it to class each day. I find that the better organized a student is, the more likely she/he will find success in mathematics. If your child is organizationally challenged, I encourage you to work with them regularly to help them maintain a well-organized notebook.
Finally, in addition to their notebook, I expect my students to bring to class everyday their covered textbook and pencils. In addition, I require that they have a scientific calculator (one with functions like LOG and COS ) with them each day. They are less than $15 at Staples. If your son/daughter qualifies for free or reduced lunch, he/she can arrange to borrow a calculator from the school for the year. Pleasecontact me if you would like to have them borrow a calculator for the year and I will help make the arrangements.