Math III: Bosky Frederick

Course Overview:

Math III: Algebra II, Trigonometry, & some Precalculus 2008-09

"Bosky" Frederick

• Algebra: Basic operations: solving & simplifying, systems of equations, inequalities, algebraic fractions, factoring, quadratic formula, exponents & logarithms.

• Functions: Definition & notation, domain and range, inverses of functions, applications.
Types: linear, absolute value, quadratic, periodic, exponential, inverse, variation.

• Graphing: Lines, inequalities, curve shifting (functions & general), stretch factor, circles, parabolas, hyperbolas, polynomials, 3-D coordinates

• Misc: numbers, ratios, %, conversion factors, notations, rate, counting, probability, statistics, sequences & series, graphing calculator, matrices, complex numbers, …

• Trig: right triangles, angles, trigonometric and circular functions (sine, cosine, and tangent), graphs, properties

• Use (applications): maximize area, compound interest, exponential growth, modeling, …

• eXtra other things that do not belong above, new items, review

The goal for the course is to set a good foundation for future years of high school mathematics and science. Students will:
- practice teaching themselves from their own investigations, observations, & conversations
- increase their problem-solving skills
- be able to apply their knowledge and methods to "new" problems
- increase their communication skills by talking to & listening to group members
- increase their writing skills by showing & explaining their work clearly
- learn to check the reasonableness of their answers and find errors
- learn the power and limitations of a graphing calculator
- do sufficient review so they are comfortable doing mathematics

Students are required to have a graphing calculator, which is also used in Math IV. The graphing calculator is used as a learning tool. As students use the calculator to solve equations and model real-world phenomena, they reinforce their skills in logic and algebra.

Students spend much of their time in cooperative learning groups, doing mathematics: exploring, explaining, figuring, and trying new ideas. We also spend time discussing homework as a class. We expect students to consult with their peers outside of class too. Students who need more help or who need more explanations are expected to see a teacher outside of class. They will find us very generous with our time and eager to give help.

Parts of the course:
◊ Text (has classswork problems & homework problems)
◊ Assignment sheets (specifies daily work)
◊ Activities (help students develop new ideas & make connections)
◊ Reference sheets (definitions, formulas, & vocabulary)
◊ Problem sets (10 problems spread out over about 7 homework days - requires careful work)
◊ Quiz sheets (quizzes cover specific topics - helps review knowledge)
◊ "PracTests" or Group Tests (used for review)
◊ Tests (individual work: best (but not only) indication of what has been learned)

There are two levels of the course. The Math III course offers more review of the basics and a more deliberate pace for those students who would benefit from it. Some material is covered in less depth than the Math IIIA (accelerated) course.

Other Section Resources:

Assignments

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Class Resources

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Useful Links

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