Integrated Math 210
Essential Question: How will an understanding of Algebra and geometry topics benefit you as a student?
This course will work to strengthen and expand topics from Algebra I and Geometry. The units of study include Parallel and Perpendicular lines, Linear Equations and inequalities, Systems of Equations, Congruence, Similarity, Special right triangles, Transformations, Surface Area and Volume. The units are aligned with the Common Core standards. In May those students in the the tenth grade will be taking the 10th grade Massachusetts math exam. One goal of this course is to have each of those students proficient or advanced at the 10th grade level and well prepared for this exam. Another goal is to provide all students with the knowledge and confidence they will need to continue their success next year and beyond. Remember, the ability to problem solve, and use logical reasoning carries far beyond the mathematical concepts covered in this course!
Assessment Strands:
Accuracy (30%): Mathematics is a language that allows people to give exact answers. When calculations are not made correctly, rocket’s don’t fly, ,bridges collapse, and checks bounce. Students are assessed in this strand primarily through their performance on quizzes and tests.
Logic (30%): Just like accuracy, how one arrives at a solution is also important. When reviewing student work, teachers look to see how problems are set up before they are solved. As math concepts become increasingly complex, making sure the logic is clearly communicated takes on greater significance. Students are assessed in this strand primarily through their performance on quizzes and tests.
Application (20%): Students complete unit projects each semester where they apply
their knowledge and explore solutions to in depth problems. These projects are graded on a variety of content and presentation standards.
Work Habits (20%): Students are assessed in this strand primarily through class participation and timely completion of assignments. Strong work habits are key to successfully learning the content of this course.
Course Topics:
Semester 1
- Algebra/geometry review of concepts
(like terms, distribution, multiplying powers, proportional reasoning)
- Solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities
- Solving systems of equations and inequalities
- Exponent properties and Scientific Notation
- Polynomials and factoring
- Geometry essentials
- Congruent triangles
- Parallel and Perpendicular lines
Semester 2
- Similarity
- Special right triangles
- Quadrilaterals
- Transformations
- Surface Area and Volume of solids
Course Policies & Expectations:
Academics – Your effort and willingness to wrestle with the material of this class is a key element to your success. You are responsible to yourself and to your classmates to produce your best work and to come prepared to class each day with all the needed materials and ready to work. The culture of this class encourages learning through sharing our mistakes and group solutions to difficult problems. Frequent participation in class is expected and an informal part of your overall grade. Participation can mean a variety of things including contributing to class discussions, posting solutions on the board, asking questions, and contributing to group work.
Materials – all items should be brought to every class.
Scientific Calculator: Texas Instruments, any version of model TI-30 preferably multi-view or alternately a graphing calculator TI-83, TI-84, or better.
Binder with dividers and loose-leaf paper or spiral notebook and folder.
Homework and sharpened pencils with erasers.
Attendance – You are responsible for getting notes and assignments upon return to school and missing work is due within three days of your return.
Quizzes and Tests – Quizzes will be given as needed and will assess the understanding of subsections within a topic. Tests will be scheduled at the conclusion of a topic.
Homework – You can expect to spend approximately 30-45 minutes a night of quality homework time per class. It is your responsibility to make a reasonable effort to complete the homework and try all sections. Homework will be collected randomly but any homework is fair game for inclusion on a quiz so make sure you understand each problem.
Late Work Policy - All students are expected to complete work in a timely manner. Developing the mindset and skills to complete work on time will benefit students throughout high school, college, and in future careers.
If a student is not able to turn in a major assignment on time, he or she must make arrangements with the teacher 24 hours in advance of the due date. An extension is at the discretion of the teacher -- it is not guaranteed!
For a students without an extension, at the discretion of the teacher, students may be provided extra time to receive partial credit on major assignments. Make-up assignments must be submitted within 7 calendar days (1 week) from the original due date.
Assignments submitted within the 7 day window will receive a lower grade in the Work Habits strand but will be fully assessed in all other strands.
Homework is due on a regular basis. Late homework must be turned in by the next class. Some homework will be reviewed in class and therefore is not eligible for late credit.
Honors –Any student is eligible to pursue honors credit for any semester of a math course. The following outlines the program and requirements:
1) Students complete additional homework assignments. They are graded for correct answers and work shown to explain approach to the problems. This is entered as a work habits grade and included in the strand with all other course assignments.
2) Students take an additional honors level test at the end of each unit. It is designed to push understanding further and consists of problems that apply to both the material learned in the unit and general math principles and logic. This test is graded using the same logic and accuracy strands used on the regular test.
3) During project work, an additional component of the project will be required. It is also designed to extend understanding and application of the concepts covered. This grade will be included in the application strand.
It is important to note that because honors grades are entered into the regular course strands, the student’s grade may be affected in either a positive or negative way. Taking honors can lower your grade in each strand and overall. Sometimes a student will receive an honors B instead of the A they would have received without taking honors.
If a student drops honors on or before the drop deadline, all honors assignments up to that point will be calculated into the grade (Handed in or not!). Any honors assignments for a student that drops honors, after the drop date, will not be calculated in the grade.