Calculus
Teacher: Michelle Miller
Grades: 9 - 12
Meets: T/Th
Class Description: Calculus is not hard - it's just different! Calculus is simply a study of change and how that change affects other components. The text starts with a strong review of Advanced Math and Trigonometry and then gradually introduces the concepts of a first semester Calculus course. This is a two semester course which completely covers the calculus taught in the first semester of college and also introduces the second semester topics.
Saxon Calculus “recognizes that an understanding of the abstractions of calculus does not occur on the initial encounter, no matter how brilliant the presentation. Thus the book uses an incremental development….”
We will complete four lessons each week. The students are expected to be responsible for grading and correcting their own homework. The homework will be reviewed in class and then collected to hold them accountable. All tests will be in class and the second semester will emphasize AP preparation.
The focus of the class is preparation for the AP Calculus exam in May. Students wishing to sit for the exam will need to pay an additional test fee to College Board. (Approximately $84)
The AP exam is accepted by most colleges and universities as credit for the first semester of College Calculus. Please note: Each University sets their own policies and acceptance may vary within the university based upon the student’s major.
Prerequisites: Completion of Saxon Advanced Math is preferred, but completion of any Pre-calculus course is usually sufficient.
Maximum number of students that you will allow to take this class: 8
Cost per student (numeric only): $75 per month
Homework: We will complete four lessons each week. The students are expected to be responsible for grading and correcting their own homework. The homework will be reviewed in class and then collected to hold them accountable. All tests will be in class and the second semester will emphasize AP preparation.
Supplies that the students should bring to class: Each student will need a copy of Saxon's Calculus, and either an answer key or Solutions Manual. The students will also need a scientific graphing calculator. Any graphing calculator is acceptable but the TI-83 will be emphasized in class.
Saxon has a Solutions Manual available that shows the problem step by step, which many students find helpful. Some students can become too dependent on the solutions manual and not fully gain the experience of struggling through the difficult concepts. Each family should decide for themselves if a solutions manual is needed.
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