Ms. Chute 2002-2003

Course Information and Policies

• Paper (both binder and graph)

• Writing implement and eraser (pencil recommended)

• Graphing Calculator: TI-83, TI-83+, or TI-89

• Something in which to hold your papers (a 3-ring binder is recommended)

You are expected to bring these materials, along with your TEXTBOOK, everyday

Semester grades are based on assignments, quizzes, projects, unit tests, class activities, projects and a final exam. You will have access to your grades online, updated approximately after each test. Occasionally, I might ask that you print out a copy and have it signed by a parent/guardian. You are responsible for checking that the scores are accurate so keep all papers to assure that your scores are entered correctly.

Your grade will be calculated with the following percentages:

Letter grades are assigned as follows: A: (88-100), B: (76-87), C: (64-75), D: 52-63, F: (below 52)

top right corner.

• Each assignment is graded out of 5 points: legibility, format & completeness (3 points),

• For homework, use a smooth-edged, 8.5"x11" paper only

• Leave a blank line between problems

• Copy enough of the problem to indicate what you are doing and show work where appropriate

• Staple all loose sheets of paper together

• Erasures and some line-outs are OK but disorderly work will not be marked

• You may obtain my signature for a ONE-DAY extension if 75% or more of the

assignment is completed and you must ask at the beginning of class

• You are entitled to three late homework assignments per quarter. Other than this, no late

homework will be accepted.

If you are absent due to "health":

• You are expected to try to keep up with the assignments during your absence. This includes reading the textbook and getting notes and handouts from a classmate.

• You have as many school days to catch up on older assignments as days you missed.

Quizzes may be announced or unannounced. Most are worth between 10 to 40 points. If you are absent the day of a quiz, you will not take a "make-up" quiz.

• Each semester, you will be allowed to drop one quiz of your choice, provided that you have not missed a quiz (this means that it is in your best interest to know your own grades!!)

• If you have missed one quiz during the semester for an excused reason, this will count as your "dropped quiz".

• If you have missed more than one quiz during the semester for excused reasons, the first will be "dropped" and for any subsequent missed quizzes, you will be given the points of equal percentage value as earned on the unit test

• if you miss a quiz due to tardiness, a "cut", or suspension, you will earn a ZERO

Tests are usually given after each chapter. While the material of the given unit is stressed, any past material is fair game for a test. NO notes are allowed on tests and they are NOT curved. If you are absent the day of a test:

• due to "HEALTH", you will take the test upon your return. If your absence was prolonged, a test date will be set upon your return to class. Note: unless you missed the teaching of actual material (not just review) you will be expected to take the test the day of your return.

• due to any other excused reason (sports, field trip, vacation, "other", etc.) you will earn a ZERO unless prior arrangements are made

• due to tardiness, a "cut" or suspension, you will earn a ZERO

• If you missed new material presented before a test, you’ll make an appointment for a make-up test. If you just missed the review, you’ll take the test the day of your return.

There will be at least one project each semester.

There will be one two-hour final exam each semester.

• Tardies: natural consequences, unless someone requires an individualized attendance contract

The classroom is to be conducive to learning. Actions which do not support this goal will not be tolerated. You are to show respect for fellow students, school property, and all staff members. You are expected to know and to follow the rules set forth in the Student Handbook , such as no food, profanity, etc. If you are unclear on the rules, please ask.

Students who do not behave in an appropriate and respectful manner will be asked to change their behavior. If they do not, one or more of the following will occur:

• On homework, you are allowed to consult but not copy. Copying homework will result in zeroes for the assignment for all parties involved.

• For assessments, the school's honesty policy will be invoked. The first instance results in a zero and the second instance results in being dropped from the course.

• Some examples of actions during a test or quiz considered blatant cheating are:

Looking at another student's work OR allowing another student to look at your work

Talking without permission

Unauthorized notes, books or other information during an assessment

Talking to other students in another section of the course about the assessment

I am available 4^th and 5^th periods and, by appointment, before school or after school.