AP STATISTICS

Date of exam: Tuesday, May 6, 2008

The following is an outline of classroom procedures, student expectations, and guidelines for AP Statistics.  It will provide you with important information to help insure you achieve the greatest amount of success throughout this college level course.  Preparation for the AP Statistics Exam: The purpose of this course is to prepare students for the AP Statistics exam which assesses how well students have mastered the concepts and techniques covered in a traditional college-level Statistics course.

As a result, the pace of instruction, student workload, and expectations are modeled after those found in a college course.  This year the AP Statistics exam is scheduled for May 6, 2008.  Due to this time constraint, students will be expected to attend additional review sessions that will be scheduled throughout the year.  These review sessions will be held before and after school depending on students’ schedules.

Classroom Behavior and Expectations:

1.)    Be on time to class and seated by the time the bell rings.  Pencils should be sharpened before the class begins. Students are expected to work quietly on the opening exercise immediately following the bell.  The school policy for absences and tardiness will be strictly enforced.

2.)    Be prepared for every class.  Students should bring the following with them to class everyday:

•         TI 83/84+ Graphing Calculator
•         Binder with loose-leaf paper
•         Textbook
•         Pencil, pen and highlighter
•         Necessary assignments

3.)    Be attentive.  Students are expected to pay attention in class, take appropriate notes, and participate in classroom discussions.  Students should raise their hand and wait to be called on before asking/answering questions.  Students are expected to remain in their seats for the entire period.  Bathroom breaks are allowed only in emergency situations.

4.)    Be courteous.  I expect that students will act with respect towards one another, as well as towards me.  We must listen attentively to each other’s ideas and encourage one another to our fullest potential.

Grading Policy:

The grades for AP Statistics will be determined as follows:

1.)   Tests (55%): Announced tests will be given at the end of each unit.  Tests questions will resemble those found on the AP Statistics exam.  At times, students should expect problems that require them to apply concepts discussed during class.  All work must be included and done in pencil to receive full credit.  Partial credit may be given depending on accompanying work.

2.)   Quizzes (25%):  Quizzes will be given in class on a regular basis to assess student’s progress and comprehension.  There is a possibility that unannounced quizzes will be given as well.  All work must be included and done in pencil to receive full credit.  Partial credit may or may not be given depending on the circumstances.  Every two weeks, take home quizzes will be given that assess topics stressed on the AP Statistics examination.

3.)   Homework (10%):  Homework will be given on a daily basis.  Success in mathematics is achieved through practice and perseverance; therefore, it is extremely important that students complete all homework assignments.  Homework assignments should be completed neatly in pencil, then corrected in pen when reviewed the next class.  Assignments may be collected randomly and graded on a three-point scale.  Full credit will be given only if all questions are attempted and all work is shown.  Students should expect to spend at least 30-60 minutes on homework per night.

4.)   Projects (10%):  Each marking period at least one project will be assigned to students.  The nature of the projects will vary depending upon the content being covered in class.  Further information concerning projects will be provided on additional handouts.

Policy on Make-Up and/or Late Assignments:

In accordance with LSM policy, students who miss class due to excused absences will have three days per absence to make up missed assignments.  The student is solely responsible to request and make up assignments within the given time period.  If assignments are not submitted within the allotted time, no credit will be given for those assignments.  However, students absent on the day of an announced test/quiz will be required to take the test/quiz upon returning to school.  Students will be responsible to make arrangements with me to take the assessment on their own time (i.e., study halls, before or after school, etc.).  Late assignments will not be accepted from students who were present both the day that the assignment was given and the day that it was due.

Cheating Policy:

Cheating, of any form, will NOT be tolerated.  Copying homework is unacceptable!  If students are found copying, no credit will be given to both parties for the assignment.

Parent Communication:

I am always pleased to speak with parents/guardians regarding their child’s progress.  Please leave a message (673-0423 ext. 5416) at any time with your name and phone number, and I will return your call as soon as possible.  I may also be reached via email at barlowskia@region10ct.org

Essential Questions of AP Statistics:

Throughout the year we will be answering the following underlying questions as they pertain to the AP Statistics curriculum:

1.)   How do we use mathematical reasoning and justification?

2.)   How do we use mathematical strategies to solve problems?

3.)   How do we use the language of mathematics to communicate?

4.)   How is mathematics used in the real world?

Thank you for taking the time to read through this document.  Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.  I look forward to a productive and enjoyable year!

For a copy of the AP Statistics Syllabus:CLICK HERE.