Pre-Calculus course progresses from both algebra and geometry to an in-depth study of 12 basic functions, piecewise-defined functions, parametric and polar equations. To a lesser extent, the course also explores matrices, analytic geometry, and discrete mathematics. Pre-Calculus course integrates graphing technology, numerical methods, and algebraic processes throughout the course to deepen student understanding and engagement as they solve problems and support solutions. Although graphing technology is important, many problems will require a non-calculator approach, especially for IB/AP math paths in the future. 

** This course is NOT intended for AP Precalculus exam **

• Grades 9 ~ 12

• 85% or higher in Algebra 2 and Geometry

• Teacher Recommendation

• 5% Participation

• 30% Homework

• 30% Knowledge Check

• 35% Tests

Participation

• Students are expected to be on time for every class, and be ready for the day's activities when class begins. Students are expected to come to class prepared with all required supplies each day. 

• Each day, students can earn a participation grade on a scale from 0-5 according to: being on time (1), coming prepared (1), engaging in class and staying on task (2), and demonstrating a positive respectful attitude (1).

Homework

• Every homework given on a daily basis will be graded for completion on a scale from 0-5. All homework must be submitted in the submission box before the class starts. Completion is graded on effort, not accuracy, and is not necessarily a reflection of the type of grade a student should expect on assessments. 

• In order to receive full credit on completion, students must show all work and attempt all problems. Even though a student is not able to solve all problems, one must try the best, and keep all the work process for future review and feedback. This is one of the most important attitudes in learning mathematics. 

Knowledge Checks

• Knowledge Checks are short assessments graded for completion, methods, procedures, accuracy, and notations. To encourage students to review the materials continuously and consistently, Knowledge Checks are not necessarily announced in advance. 

• The emphasis on evaluation will be on the methods and procedures taught in that unit, and NOT on the correct answer.

• Knowledge Checks may involve group problem-solving activities. 

Tests

• Tests will be given at the end of each chapter. 

• Tests are announced in advance. 

• The emphasis on evaluation will be on the methods and procedures taught in that unit, and NOT on the correct answer. A student with an incorrect answer may earn more credit than a student with a correct answer depending on the work shown and justification given. IB and AP standards from math state: "Correct answers with no work shown will receive no credit."

• At the end of each semester, there will be a semester exam (final exam). The first semester's final exam consists of all the chapters learned in the first semester. The second semester's final exam consists of all the chapters learned in the second semester. 

*** All gradings follow AP/IB. If I cannot read or follow your work, I am NOT grading it ***

** Pacing may be adjusted throughout the school year.

First Quarter

• Prerequisites

• Functions and Graphs

• Polynomial, Power, and Rational Functions

Second Quarter

• Exponential, Logistic, and Logarithmic Functions

• Trigonometric Functions

Third Quarter

• Analytic Trigonometry

• Applications of Trigonometry

Fourth Quarter

• Systems and Matrices

• Analytic Geometry in Two Dimensions

• Discrete Mathematics

• Late submission will NOT be accepted.

• If a student is absent with an excuse, he or she has as many days to make up the work due to absences as the number of excused days of absence that occurred. Excused absence requires an email from the school office or the student's parents/guardian, or the Transit Form entry.

• Pre-Calculus runs at a very rapid pace. It will be very difficult to allot much time for questions. Therefore, it is extremely important that the students communicate with Ms. Lee, whenever there are questions. It is the student's responsibility to reach out when they need help.

• We will have a class Whatsapp group. Oftentimes, when you have a question about a problem, your classmates might have the same question as well. Or, sometimes your classmate can have a solution to your questions. So, we want to use the group chat effectively, for discussing questions amongst peers. Ms. Lee will be there to guide if you need a hint. 

• "I can proudly assure, that I am probably the fastest responder of any teacher at SJS! I will answer your questions any time, any day, even if it's 3 AM on Sunday, as long as I am awake. So please, PLEASE use me as much as possible! I am the best, free resource that you have!"