The purpose of this web page is to acquaint you with the philosophy, staff, and course offerings of the mathematics department at McFarland High School.
DEPARTMENT PHILOSOPHY
The math teachers at McFarland High School are committed to the beliefs that:
- All students can and should be mathematically empowered.
- The development of thinking and understanding is a key component.
- Understanding is achieved through explicit direct instruction, guided and independent practice and a consistent spiraling of review material.
- Cooperative grouping can and should be used as another means to understanding.
- Confusion and partial grasp of ideas are a part of the learning process.
- A complete understanding is obtained through writing and talking about mathematics.
- Performance is measured through standard specific assessment methods.
GOALS
The math department will work to ensure that:
- All students are actively engaged on a daily basis.
- Students take responsibility for their learning by questioning, creating, and deciding what to do.
- Manipulatives and calculators are utilized to develop understanding.
- Students are frequently engaged in academic talk.
- Students reflect their thinking orally and in writing.
- Assessments are aligned to state standards and measure what the student have learned.
- Positive attitudes toward math are developed.
COURSE OFFERINGS
The following is a list of math courses offered at McFarland High School.
Algebra Readiness
Algebra 1CP
Algebra II
Precalculus
AP Calculus
Note: Freshmen may enter at any level for which they are qualified.
ASSESSMENT POLICY
Each teacher's grading policy will differ slightly, but the following generalizations hold true:
- Homework, tests, and quizzes are a major portion of a student's grade.
- Homework is assessed based on a student's attempt to complete the assignment, as well as correctness.
- Group and individual tests will be given each chapter/unit.
- Benchmarks will be given quarterly.