College Algebra

Olathe South High School

Ms. Shannon Wolak
Room 1104
swolakos@olatheschools.org

COURSE DESCRIPTION
This course focuses on the study of functions and their graphs, techniques of solving
equations, and the recognition and creation of patterns. Students will analyze and graph
functions, including constant, linear, absolute value, square root, polynomial, rational,
exponential, trigonometric, logarithmic functions, and non-functions; solve equations and
inequalities, including polynomial equations, exponential equations, logarithmic equations,
trigonometric equations, systems of equations, and systems of inequalities; and analyze and
create algebraic and numerical patterns.

MATERIALS
These materials are required in class daily:
• 3-ring binder
• Notebook Paper
• Pencil
• Grading Pen/Highlighter
• Charged laptop
• Graphing Calculator (TI-83/84 preferred)

CALCULATORS
Students will need to bring a calculator with them each day to class. I do not have
calculators to lend out. Students may not share calculators when taking a test or quiz.
Graphing calculators may be rented from the school for $20. (See Mrs. Otroszko – Rm. 1009)

Students will be allowed to use a calculator on daily work, tests, and quizzes unless directed
otherwise. However, the calculator is to be used for computation. It does not take the place
of showing work. Students will be required to write out all steps and show how an answer was
acquired. No/minimal credit will be earned for a correct answer without accompanying
work shown.

GRADING POLICY
Semester grades will be determined by the three categories listed below and their
corresponding weights. Grades DO NOT start over at the beginning of each quarter. The
grading scale will be as follows:
90% - 100% A
80% - 89% B
70% - 79% C
60% - 69% D
0 % - 59% F
JCCC GRADES
The grade that you earn in my class is not the grade that you earn from JCCC. You will
receive a separate grade from JCCC. Your JCCC grade is based on five unit exams and a
comprehensive final. You will receive a detailed syllabus from JCCC in the coming weeks.

ASSIGNMENTS (5%)
Homework will be given almost daily. Since homework is the first attempt a student makes on
a particular topic, the answers will not affect the overall grade of the assignment. However,
the effort and work the student has made on the problems and attempts to show correct
steps will receive credit. I will determine whether an attempt has been made.

Most homework will be graded on a completion scale of 0 to 5 points.

To earn all 5 points, ALL work must be shown and all assigned problems completed.
75% – 95% Complete – 4 points
60% – 75% Complete – 3 points
Less than 60% Complete, assignment will be returned to be completed and turned in late –
2.5 points

If a student is absent from class for any reason, it is their responsibility to get the assignment,
notes, and classwork that were missed.

LATE homework turned in after the due date will receive 2.5 points. All late work must be
handed in before the chapter test. Any assignments received after the chapter test will
receive 0 POINTS.

QUIZZES (30%)
Quizzes will be given 1-2 times per week, covering recent material learned in class and
requiring students to demonstrate knowledge of the content. Students who have an
excused absence the day of the quiz will have two days to make up the quiz before/after
school or during seminar. The lowest quiz grade will be dropped at the end of each quarter.

TESTS (65%)
Tests will be given at the conclusion of each unit of study and will require students to
demonstrate their knowledge of the content. Test reviews and/or study guides will be
provided to students at least one day before the test. Students who have an excused
absence the day of the test will have one week to make up the test before/after school or
during seminar. Students absent from class on a review day will still take the test with the rest
of the class.

CELL PHONES AND MP3 PLAYERS

These should not be outside of your backpack during instructional time! If there is a special
circumstance that allows for the use of these items, I will communicate that to the class. If it
is a reoccurring problem, the item will be taken up to the office for a guardian to come get
at his/her convenience. If you feel that you have an emergency situation and must have
your phone out, please speak to me about it before class.
CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS
1. BE RESPECTFUL
• Positive language (no cussing or put-downs).
• Ask permission to borrow materials or leave the room.
• Talk when appropriate. Don’t interrupt.
• Take good care of your textbook, desk, and school materials
Disrespectful language and/or conduct may result in disciplinary action.
2. Follow classroom procedures
3. Follow school policies and the student code of conduct.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXTRA HELP

I am available during Falcon 50, seminar, after school (3:00 – 3:30) every day, and before
school (7:30 - 7:55) every day except Thursday.