Syllabus for Mathematical Models

Instructor: Mrs. Kuan                                Email: kuan@actchs.org

Course Description:

This course is intended to bring about a deeper understanding of mathematical relationships that will help students gain mathematical literacy in the real world and simultaneously help them build a strong foundation for future study in mathematics and other disciplines such as accounting. Students will be able to problem-solve, communicate mathematically, create and interpret mathematical representations and models, and make efficient and appropriate use of technology to solve problems.

Textbook:

Mathematical Models with Applications, by Maureen O’Connor, 2008

Supplies Needed:

1. Pencil and eraser (all work must be done in pencil)

2. A notebook and a 3-ring binder to keep all notes and assignments completed

3. A folder or 3-ring binder to keep all handouts.

4. Regular notebook paper or loose leaf paper

Grading Scale:                                               Term Grade:

A  100-90                               Participation/discussion in class    10%      

B    80-89                               Daily work/ Homework                   25%

C    75-79                               Pop quizzes                                        10%

D    70-74                               Projects                                                20%

F     69 or below                   Tests                                                     20%

                                               Final Exams                                        20%

Classroom rules and requirements:

1. Be in class on time

2. Bring all books and materials you need to class

3. Follow directions the first time they are given

4. Keep your feet, hands, and objects to yourself

5. Obey all school rules (Including No eating or drinking during class time in the classroom.) Eat and drink only at break and lunchtimes.

Consequences:

1. Reminder of the rule

2. Warning

3. Parents or guardians contact

4. Referral to administrator

How to organize your class notes, assignments and handouts :

Students need three things to organize their class work including a notebook, a 3-ring binder, and a folder. A notebook is for you to write all class notes. A 3-ring binder is for you to keep all class practices and assignment. A folder is for you to keep all the handouts you will receive in the class. These three things should be maintained well-organized. All work should be done on paper, clearly identified, and to be kept chronologically in your binder. Your notebook, binder, and folder will be graded and checked periodically.

How to get a good grade:

Students’ learning attitude affects your grade. The more positive learning attitude you have a better grade you could earn.  Positive learning attitude is considered to involve any classroom activities, practices, and assignment. Obeying classroom rules and keeping up with your work cam also be part of positive learning attitudes. Pop quizzes, tests, and final exam are counted for 45% of your final grade so you need have some strategies to get prepared. Pop quizzes will be given right before the class finishes.  All the questions are from the class assignments/practice we have been discussed on that day. Most of the test questions are form your notes, questions in the textbook, previous quizzes, class assignment/practice, and teacher’s handouts. I will help you to go over all of them before the test. Final exam is always comprehensive. The questions of the final exam include previous quizzes, previous tests, questions in the textbook, released TAKS exams, and teacher’s handouts.         

How to get help:

Once you discover any difficulties to learn in this class, you must report to the teacher. I am willing to give you additional help before school start, during lunchtime, and after school. Please feel free to email me about any concerns and questions regarding to the class or work assignment. My goal is to assist you pass the class. Your success will be my success.