Here are some suggestions for what you can do to be successful in Math at York High School.
Have a positive attitude about math
• Whether you like it or not, you CAN succeed in mathematics!
• Mathematical knowledge is important in opening doors to careers.
• Be persistent and diligent - time spent studying will bring positive results.
• Be an active learner in class by asking questions, working examples, and taking notes.
Quick facts about math at York
• Work in math class consists of daily assignments - reading and problems - and longer projects - writing assignments, computer programs, or projects.
• You will need a math notebook in which to take notes and do homework, graph paper, ruler, pencils, and the calculator recommended in the York Course Offerings booklet. For some courses, a protractor and compass are also required. These are needed for use at home and at school.
• The use of computers is integrated into all York math courses. You may need time outside of class to work on computer assignments. Occasional projects require software only available on a Math Department computer, so you must work in class or come to the Math Lab before or after school or during lunch or Study Hall.
• Begin computer assignments early since the labs are crowded - especially on the day when the assignment is due!
• Some computer programs are available in student editions for use on a home computer. You may check with your teacher about these.
Make home a good place to work
• You will have one-half hour or more of daily math homework, consisting of reading and problems. There should be few nights when there is no math homework!
• Often you will have a calendar or syllabus for a chapter’s work. Your knowledge of this calendar can help you in planning to complete longer projects, hand in work on time, and study for tests and quizzes.
• The Math Department webpage has helpful resources. Each course has a webpage and so do teachers.
• Make sure you have a quiet, private place to study.
• Your teacher often asks you questions to help guide you. If you are struggling with a problem, ask yourself questions like these:
What do I know now?
What do I need to find out?
Have I seen a similar problem in my book or notes?
How might I begin?
How can I organize your information?
Can I make a drawing of the problem?
What do I need to do next?
Is my solution reasonable?
Can I convince someone that my solution makes sense?
• Know how to study for a math test:
* Go over notes, corrected homework, and quizzes.
* Make a study sheet of main ideas and formulas.
* Gather samples of key kinds of problems from the chapter. Re-do them and write comments about how to approach these problems. Making your own guide is better than being given one.
* Read the chapter summary and work review problems.
•Sometimes it’s helpful to form small, serious study groups for tests and exams.
If you have questions
• Get help when needed. The first step is to make an appointment for extra help you’re your teacher during his or her free periods or before or after school.
• Use the Math Lab. There, students can get the help they need, ask questions of a teacher, complete homework and computer assignments, and work with peers.
Fast Facts About the York Math Lab
• Located in Room A263 right next to the Math Office and near the Study Halls!
• Open by 7 every morning and after school daily until 4:15.
• Open every period during the school day.
• Staffed by a math teacher during all hours.
• On Wednesday late-start days the Alpha Lab (room A285) is open for help during teacher meeting time.
• Do not be concerned if your teacher is not free when you can use the Lab. Sometimes, hearing a different explanation from a new person makes all the difference in comprehension.
• Remember - Math is not a spectator sport! You will learn by doing.