Discrete Math Syllabus

COURSE TITLE: Discrete Math
TEXT: Excursions in Modern Mathematics; Tannenbaum
CODE: MAZ501
Grade Level:  10 – 12

Major Concepts/Content:: This discrete mathematics course by design shows a different view of mathematics than as seen in traditional mathematics courses. It is an applications driven course that is based upon the study of events that occur in small or discrete chunks. Discrete concepts are used extensively in business, industry, government, and the digital world. The major areas of study are counting and probability, graph theory, the mathematics of social choice (voting and fair division), and coding and encryption. Since most of the students are planning on attending college, topics in algebra, geometry, and SAT review will be stressed throughout the school year.

Major Instructional Activities: Instructional activities include teaching students to plan, organize, and complete various activities using as many real-world models as possible. This course involves developing sound algebraic skills, presenting projects, classroom presentations by students, open-ended investigations, and written justification by students of the solution to their problems. Cooperative learning techniques and appropriate technology should be utilized throughout the course. Students should have access to calculators at all times

Major Evaluative Techniques: Many evaluative processes will be used to assess student’s written and oral work.  These include but are not limited to multiple-choice, short-answer, discussion, or open-ended questions; homework; projects; and class presentations. Students will also be required to successfully complete written tests, which present problems with a range of difficulty based upon expectations for the course.  Generally restricted time tests are not used. Students will have ample time to compler all assignments. Some tests may be taken home to complete.  Assessment methods can be supplemented by student-produced analysis of problem situations, solutions to problems, and reports on investigation.  Students will be provided the opportunity to do chapter projects that capture the concepts and skills presented throughout the chapter unit that emphasizes real world situations

Essential Expectations: Upon successful completion of Discrete Math, the student should be able to deal with problems relating to the following :

	Points, lines and planes
	Slope
	Linear equations and their graphs
	Measurement on the coordinate plane
	Solving linear equations
	Combining algebraic expressions
	F.O.I.L.
	Multiplying expressions
	Factoring
	Solving quadratic equations.
	Pythagorean Theorem
	Rules of exponents
	Simplifying radicals
	Theory of parallel and perpendicular lines
	Addition and subtraction of expressions
	Finding Zero's
	Ratio and proportion
	Right angle trigonometry
	Solving triangles

Grading Policy: 90-100: A;  80-89: B; 70-79: C;  60-69: D;  59 or below: F. The lowest grade given for failing an  "attempted" assignment is 50%.

Being Successful : There will be at least one quiz given each week in addition to approximately two tests per quarter. If students do poorly on a quiz, they can request a second attempt to obtain a passing grade. The primary goal is to do whatever can be done to enable the student to achieve success.

Homework Policy: Late homework will only be accepted with a valid and substantial excuse from home.

Tardy Policy:  This is a very important course in mathematics, and students are required to be in class, on time and prepared to learn.  Students will be marked tardy if they arrive to class without their textbook, notebook, or pencil.

Tutoring / Extra help: All students are encouraged to schedule time for extra help during their seminar period.