PRECALCULUS Honors

Course Description:      This course covers Precalculus and introductory Calculus topics. The majority of the course focuses on the concept of functions - including the study of linear, exponential, logarithmic, power, trigonometric and polynomial functions - and how they allow us to model the world around us. Students will learn to choose a combination of algebraic, graphical, and numerical methods, depending on which of these tools best fits the situation. They will also develop the algebraic and graphing calculator skills prerequisite for success in Calculus. Calculus topics include limits, definition of the derivative and rules of differentiation. A graphing calculator is required for use in this course. The recommended calculator is the TI-Nspire CX CAS which may be signed out by students. This course is NOT offered as a dual enrollment course and therefore will not result in any college credit. 

Note:  One comprehensive final exam will be given in June. It will cover all of the precalculus topics covered, as well as Calculus I topics up through related rates.

Materials:   In addition to the textbooks, which will be used for most assignments, students will need a notebook, loose leaf paper, pencils and erasers (please, no ink). Graphing calculators will be integrated into the curriculum and will be available for in-class and at-home use. Students need NOT purchase their own calculator, but may sign one out from the school. The recommended calculator is the TI-nspire CX CAS graphing calculator with symbolic manipulation. Although this calculator is not allowed on the NYS Regents examinations, it may be used for the AP Calculus exams. Students are responsible for bringing their calculator to class fully charged.

Attendance:  Excellent attendance is necessary to succeed in this course. Please make every effort to be on time every day and ready to go. Students are responsible for the material covered during any absence, as well as the corresponding homework assignment(s).

Assignments:   Assignments provide students an opportunity to practice what will be tested. Homework will be assigned daily and submitted regularly. Assignments are posted on the calendar below and in Google Classroom. Although homework can be challenging students are expected to give every problem their best effort, and are strongly encouraged to come in for help when necessary. Note: Homework assignments spiral and therefore may not align with material covered in class that day.

Grading:           

• Math is not a spectator sport. Strong participation is key to reaching your full potential in a course like this. Therefore homework will be assigned, submitted, and checked on a daily basis. Assignments will receive a grade of 2, 1, or 0. These scores are combined to generate a "Homework Average" which will count as 30% of a student's overall grade.

• The remaining 70% will come from averaging everything else that receives a grade. This may include quizzes, tests, graded review sheets, projects, and a midterm exam.

Extra Help:  Students are welcome to stop by Room 106 for extra assistance during the following times. Other opportunities may be available upon request.

• Before school (7:00 - 7:25)                     

• Period 8 

• After school (2:10 – 2:45)

Generative AI: The use of generative AI tools is NOT permitted for any assignment in this course. Please be advised that submitting work created using generative AI tools may be considered a violation of Spackenkill High School’s Academic Integrity Policy (located on page 9 of the Student Handbook) and may result in disciplinary action.