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Coyle and Cassidy High School
2 Hamilton Street | Taunton, MA 02780 | Phone: 508.823.6164 | Fax: 508.823.2530 |
" Tradition Lives Here " |
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Math Department
The following policy has been effective since September 1985. All incoming students will take a test of basic skills in arithmetic in September. This test will have five parts: Part I - whole numbers Part II – fractions Part III – decimals Part IV – percent Part V - conversions. Students are required to score at least 70 on each of the five parts. For those students not scoring 70 or higher on all five part, makeup tests will be given on at least two other occasions. The entire test must be retaken until the grade of 70 is achieved on all five parts. Any student who is not successful in "passing" this test after these attempts, will be encouraged to get help over the summer months so that he/she will successfully achieve the required grade in September of the sophomore year. Achieving at least 70 on all five parts of this test is a mandatory requirement for any junior year math course. POLICY EXTENSION The following policy has been effective since September 1987 and amended in January 1994. Upper-class students who have not passed the Test of Fundamentals will not have to repeat those parts of the test that they have passed four times. This means that starting with the fifth time the student takes the test, he/she will write only those parts that have not been passed four times. If a student is in school on the day the test is given but chooses not to write the test, the waiver of any part is canceled and the student will be required to write the entire test at the next session. Transfer students also are required to take and pass the fundamentals test. It is a graduation requirement. The only exception to this mandate is that student who enrolls at CC after the September testing of the student's senior year. Sophomore transfers registered in September must fulfill the requirement to enter a junior level math course. Other transfers, late sophomore year, will be given ample time to fulfill the requirement before he/she is denied a regular sequence math course. Seniors, who are transfer students, who have not passed the Test of Fundamentals by the end of the September testing will be given written notice that graduation is threatened.
STRUCTURE OF THE TEST OF FUNDAMENTALS (There are five parts) PART I --Whole Numbers: Breakdown: 1 addition problem 1 subtraction with renaming 1 multiplication 1 division by a number greater than 12 PART
II--Fractions 3 addition problems
PART III --Decimals
Breakdown:
1 addition - horizontal format PART IV--Percent Breakdown: 1 finding a given percent of a number 1 finding the number that a given value is a given percent of 1 finding what percent one number is of another number 1 application to a word problem involving a discount PART
V--Conversions
1 convert a fraction to a decimal SAMPLE TEST OF FUNDAMENTALSPart I 1. 944 + 729 + 123 2. 92 ,745 – 45,673
3. 813 x 452 4. Divide 1129 by 32. Express remainder as a fraction.
Part II. Reduce fractions and change to mixed numbers if possible.
1.
3.
5. 8
7. 11
9.
11.
Part III
1. 11.3 + 0.02 + 75.56 + 8.324
2. Take 9.322 from 45.78
3. 7.65 X 5
4. 3.6 X 0.045
5. Divide 32 by 0.08
6. Divide 1.44 by 0.3
7. Divide 0.75 by 15
Part IV
1. What is 24 % of 90?
2. 45 is 60 % of what number?
3. What percent of 70 is 12?
4. An IPOD is priced at $250. It is on sale at 25 % off. What is the sale price of the IPOD?
Part V
1. Change
3. Express .34 as a percent. 4. Change .82 to a fraction in lowest terms.
5. Express 33 % as a fraction. 6. Express 52 % as a decimal.
7. Reduce
TEST ADMINISTRATION The test is given at least three times each school year and another time at the completion of the summer course. In general, if more than one-half of any given class must take the test, it is given during class time. If, however, less than one-half will be taking the test, it is not taken during the class time. Instead, students must take it during their learning center period or at 2 pm. A student who is absent simply misses that session and takes it at the next scheduled testing session. SCORING A standard scoring scheme is used that awards partial credit when the work is clearly shown. Each part is worth 100 points and a score of 70 or better is needed to pass the part. All five parts must be passed at one session with 70 or better to satisfy the Test of Fundamentals requirement. ALGEBRA I and II, INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA, and GEOMETRY POLICY
**Power tests will be given to all levels of these classes both semesters. The goal of power testing is for students to demonstrate mastery of the fundamentally significant material covered in that course. Therefore, students should strive to write a perfect paper. While the number of times the test is given varies and the score students must get differs, the one consistent point is this: NO STUDENT WILL PASS EITHER SECOND OR FOURTH QUARTER WITHOUT PASSING THE PRESCRIBED POWER TEST. The
arrangements and requirements for each course are below: FIRST SEMESTER:
SECOND SEMESTER:
Each teacher will review with students the testing arrangements for each particular class. Students who are absent on the day of a scheduled testing simply miss that opportunity-no extra sessions are given unless the situation warrants it. Each time the test is taken, it is corrected and returned. Students must then comply with the directions given as to corrections, etc., before the next testing session. If corrections are not made, there will be no improvement. While this policy may seem confusing, it is definitely to the students’ advantage that they demonstrate mastery of the fundamental concepts on the prescribed power test. We are confident that parents not only appreciate the additional burden the teachers willingly take on for the good of students but also agree with us that it is worth it. Should parents wish to discuss this matter, feel free to make an appointment with the department chairperson. Mathematics and Technology - In accordance with the Standards developed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, the department considers the integration of modern technology into its curriculum an essential component for relevant and effective instruction. Teachers continually update course curricula to take full advantage of the computer and graphing calculator. Methodologies are used that maximize the effectiveness of the available technology. It is our hope that each student graduating from CC has enjoyed the challenge of discovery using technology, has profited from the power of the technology, and has confidence in his/her ability to use modern technology. To achieve this goal, we require every student to have a graphing calculator. Instruction will be given for the TI-83. COURSE DESCRIPTIONS All courses offered in the Coyle Cassidy Math Department prepare students to take math after graduating from high school. All are College Preparatory courses. PREREQUISITES:
Any stated course prerequisites in addition to teacher HOMEWORK:
Given daily in most courses and may include: written
solutions OUTSIDE READING: Enrichment suggestions provided where feasible. PROJECTS/PAPERS: Occasional long-term assignment in all courses. REVIEW FOR EXAMS: Extent determined by level of course. All freshmen, regardless of course placement, will be exposed to the following technologies: Microsoft EXCEL, the CBR (calculator-based ranger) and the graphing calculator. They will engage in a variety of activities and/or projects to enable them to gain proficiency in these technologies. ALGEBRA II HONORS - This section of Algebra II, designed for freshmen, is intended for those mathematically gifted students who would be capable of majoring in a math-related field. It is highly technical and rigorous. The course concentrates on polynomials, the concept of function and rational expressions.
METHODOLOGY: In honors
sections of math courses the following characteristics HOMEWORK: 4 - 5 hours per 7 day cycle
INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA - This advanced math course is designed for those who took Algebra I in grade 8, have not qualified for Algebra II Honors, yet show evidence of considerable math ability. It also is designed for those students that did not have the opportunity to take algebra I in the eight grade but did extremely well on the placement exam. This course deals with the subject matter at its more abstract level. All topics proper to Algebra I and some Algebra II topics are covered. METHODOLOGY: In
advanced sections of math courses, the following characteristics will
be found:
ALGEBRA I COLLEGE PREP- This course treats all topics proper to a college preparatory algebra course. Emphasis is placed on equation solving and fundamental algebraic manipulations with integers, reals, and polynomials. Linear functions are studied extensively. METHODOLOGY: The college prep sections of math courses are for grade level Coyle Cassidy students. In college prep sections, the following characteristics will be found: - enhance computational and problem solving skills HOMEWORK: 3 - 4 hours per 7 day cycle
ALGEBRA I - This section of Algebra I focuses on fundamental skills and concepts. Emphasis is placed on manipulation, computation and rule. It is intended to solidify fundamental preparation for freshmen and to prepare them to be successful in more advanced applications. METHODOLOGY: In this section of Algebra I the following characteristics will be found: - development of computational and problem solving
skills HOMEWORK: 3 - 4 hours per 7 day cycle
All geometry students, regardless of course placement, will be exposed to the following technologies: The Geometer’s Sketchpad and the graphing calculator. They will engage in a variety of activities and/or projects to enable them to gain proficiency in these technologies. To enhance the understanding of the geometry concepts many physics hands-on activities are conducted throughout the year.
GEOMETRY HONORS - This section of geometry presumes solid algebra skills and outstanding mathematical ability. Emphasis is placed on development of reasoning skills. Both deductive and inductive proofs are covered and students will be expected to write original proofs of both kinds. All computational aspects of geometry are covered thoroughly. Solid geometry, coordinate geometry, and some mathematical logic are also studied. Real life and hands-on applications are stressed. METHODOLOGY: In honors
sections of math courses the following characteristics HOMEWORK: 4 - 5 hours per 7 day cycle
GEOMETRY ADVANCED - In this section of geometry emphasis is placed on development of reasoning through writing original proofs. All computational aspects of Euclidean geometry are thoroughly treated. This course is designed for students who demonstrate the skill and desire to pursue advanced mathematical applications. METHODOLOGY: In
advanced sections of math courses, the following characteristics will
be found:- develop abstract reasoning and problem solving skills
GEOMETRY COLLEGE PREP - This section of geometry gives the on grade level student a solid preparation for continued courses in math. While numerical problems are stressed more than proof, students are exposed to both throughout the year. Development of logical thinking is an important goal of the course, coupled with accurate diagram analysis and solution. METHODOLOGY: The college prep sections of math courses are for grade level Coyle Cassidy students. In college prep sections, the following characteristics will be found :- develop abstract reasoning and problem solving
skills HOMEWORK: 3 - 4 hours per 7 day cycle
GEOMETRY - This section of Geometry is designed to provide students with a concrete approach to learning math with an understanding of the fundamentals of Geometry. Proofs are looked at for their systematic logical reasoning. Original proofs are not required. Emphasis is placed on measurement and relationships. METHODOLOGY: In this section of Geometry the following characteristics will be found: - reinforce algebra and problem solving skills
- develop reasoning skills HOMEWORK: 3 - 4 hours per 7 day cycle
Students in all junior level courses will use the graphing calculator extensively both as a computational and as an investigative tool. The graphing capability of the instrument will be fully explored. HONORS INTEGRATED MATH/PHYSICS AND TECHNOLOGY (HIMPT) - This is a 2-credit honors level course that includes those topics proper to both honors physics and honors analysis. As far as possible, the physics will motivate the mathematics and the mathematics will enrich the physics. MBL equipment (microcomputer based laboratory) will be used extensively to collect and analyze data. There will be an emphasis on the use of the graphing calculator, spreadsheets, software and statistics throughout the course. Lectures will introduce new topics followed by individual and group activities to develop the topic.
PREREQUISITE: Evidence of success in
Algebra II Honors and Geometry Honors
METHODOLOGY: In honors sections of math courses the following
characteristics
HOMEWORK: 5 - 7 hours per 7 day cycle
ADVANCED ALGEBRA HONORS
- This technology-based course assumes the content of Intermediate
Algebra has been mastered. This course completes the Algebra II
curriculum and covers selected pre-calculus topics. It is expected
that those who choose this course be thoroughly skilled and motivated
math students capable of working independently. This class prepares
students for Calculus.
METHODOLOGY: In advanced sections of math
courses, the following characteristics will be found: HOMEWORK: 3 - 4 hours per 7 day cycle
ALGEBRA II COLLEGE PREP - This course gives the on grade level student the tools required to be successful in the applied, pure and behavioral sciences. This calculator-based course focuses on the study of quadratics extensively along with the study of matrices, statistics, probability, and various other functions. This course is required for general admission to most state colleges. METHODOLOGY: The college prep sections of math courses are for grade level Coyle Cassidy students. In college prep sections, the following characteristics will be found: - develop abstract reasoning and problem solving
skills HOMEWORK: 3 - 4 hours per 7 day cycle
ALGEBRA II PART 1 - This course is intended to strengthen the Algebra and Geometry skills for those students intending to go on to college. In addition to a review of the essentials of both previous courses, the course will cover topics necessary for Algebra II, for SAT's, and for some required college freshman math courses. Students will study computational trig in this course and will cover the remaining algebra II topics in their senior year. METHODOLOGY: In this section of Algebra II, the following characteristics will be found: - reinforce problem solving skills HOMEWORK: 3 - 4 hours per 7 day cycle AP CALCULUS (BC LEVEL) - In this course vector functions and parametrically defined functions will be thoroughly explored. New integration techniques and applications will be learned. The calculus of sequences and series will be treated in detail. All students are required to take the AP exam in the spring.
PREREQUISITE: AP CALCULUS (AB LEVEL)
METHODOLOGY: In the AP sections of math
courses, the following characteristics will be found: - highly
motivated students
HOMEWORK: - a minimum of 5 hours per 7 day cycle
AP CALCULUS (AB LEVEL) - This course will follow the curriculum suggested for the AB level of the Advanced Placement Exam in mathematics. It is more technically rigorous than Calculus and treats some extra topics selected from the BC level. The TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator is required for everyday use in the course. All students are required to take the AP exam in the spring.
METHODOLOGY: In the AP sections of math courses, the following characteristics will be found:
HOMEWORK: - a minimum of 5 hours per 7 day cycle
AP PHYSICS - This is a calculus-based course in mechanics. Students considering this course should have a strong Physics 1 background and a demonstrated aptitude for problem-solving.. Students must be taking AP Calculus concurrently. Computers are used extensively in data collection and analysis as well as simulation and problem solving. Students should be familiar with the use of computers. All students will take the AP level C exam in Mechanics.
METHODOLOGY: In the AP section of physics, the following characteristics will be found:
- good lab
techniques
HOMEWORK: - a minimum of 5 hours per 7 day cycle
CALCULUS HONORS - This course is for those students who have completed the Advanced Algebra Honors course. It is designed to introduce students to those areas that are fundamental to any calculus curriculum. Emphasis is placed on the development of writing complete solutions with proper use of notation.
METHODOLOGY: In honors sections of math courses the following characteristics will be found:
HOMEWORK: 4 - 5 hours per 7 day cycle
ANALYSIS ADVANCED- This
course is designed for the student who was very successful in Algebra
II. It provides a background that will help students who might want to
continue with math at the college level. Major areas studied include:
functions, graphing techniques, trigonometry, analytic geometry, and
logarithms. NOTE: This course is not open to students who have already received credit for passing Advanced Algebra.
METHODOLOGY: In advanced sections of math courses, the following characteristics will be found:
TRIG AND TOPICS - This course introduces students to the concepts of analytic geometry. Plane trigonometry, logarithms, the exponential function and sequences are covered thoroughly in this course.
METHODOLOGY: The college prep sections of math courses are for grade level Coyle Cassidy students. In college prep sections, the following characteristics will be found:
- develop abstract reasoning and problem solving skills - ability to
go beyond patterning
HOMEWORK: 3 - 4 hours per 7 day cycle
ALGEBRA II PART 2 – In conjunction with Algebra II Part I, this course completes the algebra requirement for admission to most colleges. In addition to covering quadratic functions thoroughly, the student will study rational functions and radicals. Calculators will be used extensively.
METHODOLOGY: In this section of Algebra II the following characteristics will be found: - reinforce
problem solving skills
HOMEWORK: 3 - 4 hours per 7 day cycle PHYSICS ADVANCED – Physics Advanced is a non-calculus based survey of classical and modern physics topics. Students must have completed Algebra II prior to enrolling in this course. While problem solving is stressed, emphasis is placed on understanding of concepts. Computers and electronic probes are used in lab investigations to collect and analyze data. Lab skills are developed in this course. METHODOLOGY: In this
section of physics the following characteristics will be found: HOMEWORK: 4 - 5 hours per 7 day cycle
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