Geometry Class Information

What do you need in class?

• A geometry set:  compass, protractor, ruler.  You must have your own in class.  You may not share during tests.
• A notebook for class notes.  It can be a spiral or hardcover.  Quad-ruled is best since you will be doing diagrams and graphs.  A 3-ring binder is acceptable IF you keep your geometry notes organized and separate from those for other classes.
• Pencils, pens, paper.  Again quad-ruled paper is a good choice for this class.

Note:   While we will generally grade homework in class, Mr. Roberts will occasionally collect it.  You should plan to keep your notes separate from your homework. 

Note:   We use calculators only occasionally in this class and generally don’t allow them on tests.  When they are needed, we will supply them.  Should you choose to buy one, it should be a scientific calculator that includes square roots and the basic trigonometric functions (sin, cos, tan).

Will we use computers in class?

• We will use a program called GeoGebra in class and for some assignments.  This software has been installed for student use on all of our computer lab machines and is available to anyone as freeware. GeoGebra can be downloaded from the web site, www.geogebra.org.  Once at this web site, click on the “Web Start” button to download the program. 

Note:   Geogebra is a Java application.  All newer PCs and Macs come with Java installed. On an older machine, you might also have to install this software, which is also available free.

Why study geometry?

• Geometry will help you solve real-life problems.
• Geometry will help you develop your analytical and reasoning skills.
• Geometry will provide important foundation for future math classes.
• You will learn some pretty cool things about math.

How will you be graded?

• Homework – about 20%. 
  • For full credit, homework must be on time and complete.
  • Part of you homework grade will be for completion, part for correct answers.
  • To get completion points, you must show all of your work in a way approved by Mr. Roberts.  You must do constructions with a straightedge and compass using the steps learned in class.  You must complete proofs in the way taught in class.  You must write explanations in complete sentences, referring to the applicable rules when needed.
• Notebook – about 10%.  To get full credit, you must be taking notes consistently.  Mr. Roberts will check your notebook periodically, usually on the same days as your tests.  Failure to have a notebook, notes mixed with those for other classes or notes handed in on loose sheets of paper will get a zero.  It is OK to copy notes from a classmate if you miss a class.
• Pop quizzes – about 10%.  Expect quizzes once or twice a week.  To do well, you must be keeping up with the class on a day-by-day basis.
• Tests – about 25%.  Expect 4 or 5 chapter tests each trimester.  Tests will be cumulative.  That is, tests will include topics from previous chapters.  You can earn back some of the points lost on a test by correcting your errors.  To get this extra credit, you must correct all errors on the test, show your work or reasoning, and demonstrate to Mr. Roberts that you understand each question.
• Trimester Project – about 10%.  You will be assigned one major project each trimester.  You will have a choice of topics, but all require you to do some research beyond the classroom content.
• Trimester final – about 25%.  Finals will be cumulative.  Finals can include questions on any topic covered to that point in the school year.

What does Mr. Roberts expect?

• You will live by the JMPS Code of Conduct and adhere to all classroom rules and guidelines.  This includes taking responsibility for your own learning and respecting the right of the other students to learn.
• You will read the assignment for the day BEFORE coming to class.  Note that if you lose your assignment sheet, you can find it on Mr. Roberts’ page at the school web site.
• You will be ready at the beginning of the class period.  This means be in your seat with everything you need out on the desk – text, completed homework, notebook, pencil, paper, geometry set – and everything else stowed away.  If there is a warm-up or a pop quiz, you will be expected to be working on it right at the start of class.
• As a high school student, you will take ownership of your learning.  Keep up with your work.  Ask questions in class when you don’t understand.  “I don’t get it” is not acceptable.  Be specific in your comments and questions.  Get help right away if you are having trouble.  Mr. Roberts is available for extra help during his office hours, and most days during study hall and during lunch.  The student tutoring program will begin within the first few weeks of school.

What will tests be like?

• Tests may include both multiple choice and written response questions.
• No notes will be allowed in tests.  You will be expected to know all rules and formulas required for the test.

Yes, you can study for math.

• Learn and memorize the rules as they are taught.  You will be learning about 340 rules in this class.
• Take the time to understand when doing your homework.
• If you don’t understand what was taught in class, get help right away.  Don’t wait until you fail the test.
• Study your class notes.
• Study the Review pages at the end of each chapter
• Review previously assigned problems from homework, quizzes and tests, and try new ones.  Make sure you understand every one.
• Pay particular attention to the “green” boxes with blue titles in the text, for example on p. 20.  They highlight the important concepts.