Math Department Info

Calculator Information

Until a student reaches the Algebra 2 level of class, a regular, inexpensive scientific calculator will be satisfactory. There are class sets of graphing calculators in each math classroom so that the students will use them and become comfortable with them during the earlier level classes. Once, however, a student reaches Algebra 2 it is necessary that he or she own a TI-83 or TI-83+ graphing calculator. While we realize that these tools cost around $80 each, they are such powerful computing devices that their use becomes an integral part of each course. It will be impossible for a student to complete homework assignments without the graphing calculator. There are a limited number of calculators available for rental for $15 per year. The student should see Mrs. Dauphinais in room 230 to arrange for rental. There are also calculators for purchase through the school – no tax – and these are also available through Mrs. Dauphinais.

Please do not let any salesperson convince you that the TI- 85, 86, 89, or 92 are also acceptable or even better than the TI-83. For the mathematics that we do the TI-83 is essential. It performs operations that the others do not – even though they cost more. It will be all that a student needs through college – even with engineering courses. Your student may try to convince you that the other models are just as good. In reality – they are only better for playing games… In addition – no student in AP Calculus may use a TI-89, either in class or at home. It does too much thinking for them…

Homework Information

In all of our math classes there is homework in varying amounts. Once the student reaches the Integrated Geometry Level there will be homework given every time the class meets. Not only must this homework be completed, but students must show their work. All of our teachers agree on this and will hold them accountable for the work. No matter what your child tells you – tell him or her to SHOW WORK ALWAYS.

Tutoring and Extra Help

Students may request tutors from the National Honor Society at any time. They may also get help from their math teacher – or from any math teacher. All faculty members are available to help students before school (7:15 to homeroom) and after school. Most of us are at school routinely until 3:15 p.m. and will be happy to help students. Should a teacher have a prior commitment on a given day, the student is welcome to go to any other teacher – especially one who teaches the same subject. There is always someone who can help a student who is having difficulty. It is recommended, however, that a student not wait until the night before the test to look for help. Anytime a student does not understand a lesson, he or she should get assistance immediately. Clearing up a small problem may take only 5 or 10 minutes. Reteaching an entire chapter when a student has put off getting help is entirely another story!

Maryland Math League Competition

Six times during the school year a competition called Maryland Math League takes place - always on a Tuesday between October and April. The competition last for ½ hour and consists of 6 problems. These are often more like puzzles than traditional math problems. The tests are checked and we send our top 5 scores to the state. All of the participating schools are then ranked based on the scores and high scoring students are also publicized. Bel Air is accustomed to being number one or two in the county and well ranked in the state. Students should sign up in September with their math teachers in order to participate.