Geometry Syllabus
Course Outline and Grading Policy for Geometry
“Geometry is the study of shapes in planes and space. Based on a formal mathematical system of thought, the focus of the course is on inductive and deductive reasoning to build the mathematical system. The center of what is done in the course is the deductive thinking process called proof. All of the proofs are centered on mathematical objects whose bases are the undefined objects called the point, line, and plane. From there, postulates are developed, leading to theorems by means of deductive reasoning.” OUSD Geometry Pacing Guide
Here is a list of what we will be studying over the year:
- Mathematical system: axioms, postulates, undefined terms, definitions, theorems, and the reasoning involved.
- Basic constructions.
- Postulates and early theorems (vertical angles, etc.)
- Parallel lines theorems.
- Congruence in triangles
- Quadrilaterals and polygons
- Circles
- Area and Volume
- Transformations
- Pythagorean Theorem
- Similarity
- Trigonometry
We will be following the OUSD pacing guide in terms of sequence of topics, but may spend more or less time on specific areas depending upon the class. We will also have additional activities. Here is the link to the OUSD website where you will find the pacing guide: OUSD Geometry Pacing Guide
Our textbook: Discovering Geometry (Key Curriculum Press, 2003)
Grading
Projects and Tests 40%
Classwork 40%
Homework 20%
Your grades will be posted periodically here : http://www.skylinetitans.net/moore I will give you username and password information in class.
Homework
I assign homework most Mondays through Thursdays. I rarely assign homework on Fridays. All homework is due Friday at the beginning of the class stapled to a Weekly Assignment Sheet. You will also staple your week’s warm-ups. This homework packet is graded and handed back on Monday when possible (it is always possible that I may need another day to get the grading finished).
Each assignment is worth 10 points if a substantial amount of the work is attempted. Each assignment that is stamped on time receives an additional 2 points. Do not hand in a page of answers, I want to see your work. I will also choose one question during the week which I grade. I may or may not tell you which one it will be ahead of time.
Late Homework
I accept late homework up to one week late. However, keep in mind that you will loose 2 points per assignment. That means out of a potential 12 points per assignment, you will only get 10. I will not accept homework more than a week late.
Tests and Projects
Every marking period you will have at least one major test and one major project. Some of these projects will be team projects which you will be required to do in team and present to the class.
We will negotiate as a class how often we will have quizzes. However, I reserve the right to give you an individual or team quiz without prior notice. You will get notice for all the major tests.
Classwork
We will work in teams through out the year. Each team automatically gets 5 points per day by being present and engaged. If your team slips, is not fully engaged, doesn’t do their work, then we need to have a conversation and I may reduce your team points. Occasionally, I will also ask you to hand in classwork for a grade. And occasionally your team will have the opportunity to earn extra credit points.
Materials
You should bring the following materials with you every day:
- Pencils
- lined paper
- graph paper
- Compass
- Straightedge (ruler)
- a binder or section of a multiple subject binder
My intent is not just that you learn the skills and concepts you need to learn to pass Geometry, but also to help you develop strong mathematical reasoning that you know how to share in written and verbal form, and to become resourceful confident math students. Working in teams is an essential part of this. We need to learn how to work with everyone, even people we would not choose to work with. This is an invaluable skill in the professional and academic world, and one we will practice everyday in this class.
Remember, each one of you is an unique person and brings a unique view to the class. I know you will do your best to bring forward your best self every day. Please let me know how I can support this and support you.
