AP CALCULUS AB

AP Exam Schedule

AB/BC Exam will be given the morning of Wednesday May 9, 2012


Precalculus Review

Limits and Continuity

Derivatives

Applications of Derivatives
The Definite Integral

Differential Equations and Mathematical Modeling
Applications of Definite
Integrals
FINAL EXAM


Course Summary:
The AP Calculus AB course is designed to provide students with a learning experience equivalent to that of a college course in single variable calculus. This course will develop students' understanding of the concepts of calculus and provide experience with its methods and applications. The course will emphasize a multi-representational approach to calculus, with concepts, results, and problems being expressed graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally.

Course Goals:
Students will be able to:

   * work with functions represented in a variety of ways: graphical, numerical, analytical, or verbal. They should understand the connections among these representations.
   * understand the meaning of the derivative in terms of a rate of change and local linear approximation and they should be able to use derivatives to solve a variety of problems.
   * understand the meaning of the definite integral both as a limit of Riemann sums and as the net accumulation of change and should be able to use integrals to solve a variety of problems.
   * understand the relationship between the derivative and the definite integral as expressed in both parts of the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.
   * communicate mathematics both orally and in well-written sentences and should be able to explain solutions to problems.
   * model a written description of a physical situation with a function, a differential equation, or an integral.
   * use technology to help solve problems, experiment, interpret results, and verify conclusions.
   * determine the reasonableness of solutions, including sign, size, relative accuracy, and units of measurement.
   * develop an appreciation of calculus as a coherent body of knowledge and as a human accomplishment.

The AP Exam:
All students enrolled in AP Calculus AB are expected to take the AP exam in May of 2012.  Several weeks of class time prior to the AP will be spent preparing for the exam.

Text:
The text for this class is Calculus - Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic, by Finney, Demana, Waits, and Kennedy (1999).

Recommended Supplies:
You will need: 1) a separate composition or spiral notebook with graph paper for homework, 2) a binder for class notes and handouts, 3) a stash of #2 pencils (all exams MUST BE DONE IN PENCIL), and 4) a graphing calculator.

Homework:
Math is a participatory sport not a spectator sport, so applying what you learn in class is essential. Homework will be assigned daily. Each problem must be copied into your notebook and appropriate work must be shown in order to receive credit. Homework is due the next scheduled class after it is assigned and may be checked in class.  All homework will be carefully evaluated and graded while assessments are given.  If you are absent, you are responsible for making up any missed assignments within two days of your return to school. (If you are absent on the day of a scheduled test or quiz, be prepared to make it up during a free period or after school upon your return.) For extended absences please see me.

Grading:
Your grade each quarter will be determined according to the following:
       75% Quizzes and Tests
       25% Homework/Classwork/Projects/Activities
Your final grade will be an average of your four quarterly grades and your midterm and finals grades.

Grading Scale:
A =     93.0 -100        C =            73.0 - 76.9
A- =    90.0 - 92.9     C- =            70.0 - 72.9
B+ =    87.0 - 89.9     D+ =            67.0 - 69.9
B =     83.0 - 86.9      D =            63.0 - 66.9
B-      80.0 - 82.9      D- =           60.0 - 62.9
C+ =    77.0 - 79.9     F =             59.9 and below

Any unexcused absence during a scheduled quiz or test will result in a grade of "0%"  NO EXCEPTIONS! Do not schedule any guidance appointments, projects or other "out-of-class" experiences during a scheduled quiz or test!! If you know that you are going to be out, please let me know in advance.

Classroom Rules:
  • All Personal audio devices such as cell phones, iPods/other MP3 players must be off and out of site.
  • Please do not wear hats, hoods or sunglasses during class.
  • No food or drink, except water, permitted in class (unless we are having a party!)
  • Foul language/disrespectful behavior, tardiness, unexcused absences, and cheating are NOT tolerated!