Geometry Syllabus

Geometry 2017-2018

Mrs. Pankau

Capital High School

 

Welcome to Geometry! Geometry is the branch of mathematics dealing with the properties, measurement, and relationship of points, lines, and figures in space and the real world. This year we will continue to use the Mathematics Vision Project (MVP) curriculum, which addresses our new Common Core State Standards and builds skills and conceptual understanding through a task-based approach. Instead of a textbook, students will receive a binder with printed materials. As we progress through Geometry, students will also be applying algebra skills, which will help them next year in Algebra 2. This year we are also including modules on statistics and probability to address standards which are included on the Smarter Balance assessment.

           

Materials

MVP Binder (provided)
Pens and pencils
Lined and graph paper
Calculator (Scientific or graphing—no phones in class) 
Highly recommended: Construction kit

                                                           

Grading

Grades will be based on the following percentages:

            80%    Tests and quizzes

            10%    Homework

            10%    Classwork and notes

 

All grades will be determined using the following scale with no rounding.

A   92.50% - 100%               
A-   92.49% - 90.00%

B+   89.99% - 86.50%                    
B   86.49% - 82.50%            
B-   82.49% - 80.00%

C+   79.99% - 76.50%                      
C   76.49% - 72.50%            
C-   72.49% - 70.00%

D+   69.99% - 66.50%                      
D   66.49% - 60.00%            
F     59.99% - 0.00%

 

Classwork

During class we will work together on lessons (called Tasks) in which students will explore and solidify their understanding of geometry concepts. They need to be writing their responses in their binders as notes and occasionally will take notes from direct instruction. In addition, they will be making their own lists of vocabulary terms. This work will be collected periodically (1-2 weeks) for credit, usually after a test or quiz. It is important that students complete this work since this curriculum does not provide examples or glossaries.   

 

Homework

Students can also expect to have a short assignment every day, as Ready, Set, Go (RSG) problems in their binders or skill worksheets, which will be due and reviewed at the beginning of the next class session. All answers need to be supported with work or explanations. A homework score of five represents a completed assignment turned in on time—incomplete or late work will receive a reduced score. Students should save returned assignments in their binder to confirm grades on progress reports and Skyward and to prepare for tests and quizzes.

 

Tests and Quizzes

Students will be informed in advance on all tests and quizzes. Short note and homework quizzes will be given every week or two, and tests will be given midway or at the end of each unit. 

Retake Policy

Students are allowed two retakes each semester during dates scheduled by the teacher. They must demonstrate review or remediation of the material to qualify for a retake, and the final score will be the retake score. If they are absent when the first test is given, the retake is their only opportunity. Finals may not be retaken.

 

Make-up and Late Work

Students will be given full credit for making up assignments missed due to absences. They are encouraged to copy the notes by hand and complete class and homework as soon as reasonably possible. Late assignments will be worth a maximum of three out of five points. The work will not be corrected by the teacher, but students can correct their own papers.

 

Classroom Expectations

Students in Geometry are expected to be responsible for their own learning and behavior. My classroom expectations are as follows:

  1. Be Ready: On time with the necessary materials and work
  2. Be Respectful:  To people and property
  3. Be Responsible: By following directions and using class time well.

Cheating

Students are expected to do their own work on homework, tests, and quizzes. Students caught cheating will receive a zero on the test or assignment and parents will be notified. This includes talking or any form of communication during a quiz, test, or final, and copying another student’s work on an assignment or project.

 

Calculators

Students are expected to have and use a scientific or graphing calculator during this course.

 

Cell Phones

Students are to turn off cell phones and head phones and to keep them out of sight during class time, unless given express permission to use them for academic purposes. Students who violate this rule will have their phones taken and turned in to the office. They may be picked up at the end of the day.

 

Extra Help

I am often available after school for any students needing extra help on a regular or drop-in basis and during COUG time on most Fridays. Students may also stop in my room at 7:30 in the morning or during morning break with quick homework questions. In addition, there will be other math teachers available every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday after school from 2:30 to 3:30. There is a late bus after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

 

Web Site

The district has switched to a new website (SchoolMessenger) and learning management system (Schoology) for teachers this year. I am currently in the process of setting up this web site, so keep checking back for new pages and features. I am also planning to use Schoology for the second semester, so please be patient as I get it set up and learn how to incorporate it into my teaching. In the meantime, I am using Skyward to post assignments with copies of worksheets and notes.

 

Communication

Parents should not hesitate to contact me if they have questions regarding their child’s progress in my class. My preferred method of communication is email at [email protected]. My voicemail number is 596-8209. My goal is to acknowledge your email and reply to quick questions within 24 hours. Longer responses may take another day or two.