Honors Pre-Calculus

Mr. Derrick Peterson

303.982.7870

Room A220
dlpeterson@jeffco.k12.co.us

Course Overview
Honors Pre-Calculus is an advanced course in functions, trigonometry, and analytic
geometry for all juniors and/or seniors who have previously taken Honors Geometry and Honors
Algebra II. This course provides a solid foundation in the mathematical concepts of preparatory
Calculus.

Teaching Strategies
I will utilize a variety of activities with each class period. A typical class will consist of a
combination of lecture, to introduce topics, and classroom/group work. We will have daily
classroom work that will be collected, graded, and returned the next class period. Students will
work together on a regular basis, both formally and informally. Collaboration with classmates
will be an invaluable tool.
I will encourage different approaches to solving a problem and believe that we will learn through
our mistakes. Emphasis is placed on students communicating their method of solution and a
justification of their answer. Groups will also present work to the class.

Technology
Each student is required to have a graphing calculator. All classroom work requiring the use of a
calculator will be completed on a Ti-84 Plus for this is the type of calculator utilized on our Smart
Board immolator. Calculators are used to assist in the understanding of topics, as well as for
experimentation. There will be numerous assignments, quizzes and portions of exams in which a
calculator will not be used.
All classroom presentations will be done with the Smart Board.

Notes and Worksheets

Notes will be available on my website and may be printed and used as part of the lecture portion
of the class. These notes are NOT required, but are recommended as a tool to help students
through difficult concepts. We will complete numerous worksheets during the year. All
worksheets are posted on my website for student use. Students will need to print copies of the
worksheets for the day we will be working on them. Students need to check the schedule on my
web page to make sure that the appropriate items are printed prior to the start of class. Students
will not be allowed to leave the classroom to print copies.

Student Evaluation
Evaluations are based on assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Assignments (15%): daily homework assignments will be given every night. Homework is a
requirement in the class to fully understand all concepts addressed in the class. Failure to
complete homework and classwork will result in a loss of understandind and may hurt a students
grade.

Quizzes/Projects (20%): given each week and will be a combination of multiple choice questions
and free response.
Exams (65%): exams will be given at the end of each chapter to check for comprehension of the
topics. All exams will be taken individually.

Make Up Policy
The Jefferson County Public School policy for make-up work will be strictly enforced. Check the
district website for information pertaining to this.

Grade Breakdown
A
B
C
D
F

90% or higher
80% - 89.9%
70% - 79.9%
60% - 69.9%
Below 60%

Exceptionally strong knowledge of content

Strong knowledge of content
A good knowledge of content
Some knowledge of content
No evidence of knowledge of the content

Students who have 90% or higher in the Homework Category on Parent Portal will receive an
additional 3% added onto their final grade at the end of the semester.

Primary Textbooks
Larson, Ron (2012). Pre-Calculus with Limits: A Graphing Approach (6 th Ed.). Belmost: Cengage
Learning

Food & Drink

As per Lakewood High School policy, no food or beverage, expect water, is allowed in the
academic wing. No exceptions!

Cell Phones
Cell phones will be off and put away. No use is permitted during class time and phones will be
confiscated if seen.
I reserve the right to alter or change this syllabus without notice.
Please sign and date on the appropriate line below. Signatures mean that you have read the
syllabus and have made yourself aware of the policies set forth for AP Calculus. Return this sheet
only, signed by you and your parent(s)/guardian(s) as a part of your first assignment.
_________________________
Student Signature

________________
Date

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Parent/Guardian Signature

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Date