DISCRETE   MATH

 

ROOM:               B 1.15

 

COURSE DESCRIPTION:  Discrete Math shows a different view of mathematics than seen in traditional courses. It is an applications driven course based on the study of events that occur is 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 math of social choice (voting and fair division), coding and encryption. Some of the questions investigated are: What does a bar code mean? What is the most efficient way a delivery truck can visit ten destinations? Should you buy a lottery ticket?

 

COURSE GOALS/OBJECTIVES/STANDARDS: The standards for this course engage students in applied discrete concepts through the study of group ranking methods, fair division, matrix operations, graphs applied to routes and minimum spanning trees. Also studied  will be counting and probability, game theory, and arithmetic and geometric recursion. Students will view Discrete Math as a means of modeling authentic real world problems. Graphing and matrix utilities should be used as tools to assist in problem solving. Students will be encouraged to talk and write about discrete math. The student produces evidence that demonstrates understanding of the following standards:

 

 

SCOPE AND SEQUENCE:         Fall Semester

                                 

                          Review of Algebra                                                  5 classes

                                                                                                                       

Chapter 1          Election Theory                                                       9 classes

 

Chapter 2          Fair Division                                                          10 classes

 

Chapter 3          Matrix Operations and Applications                      10 classes

 

Chapter 4          Graphs and Their Application                                10 classes

 

                                  Spring Semester

 

Chapter 5          More Graphs, Subgraphs, and Trees                     10 classes

 

Chapter 6          Counting and Probability                                       10 classes

 

Chapter 7          Matrices Revisited                                                 10 classes

 

Chapter 8          Recursion                                                               10 classes

 

CONTINOUS SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT:

“All students will improve their written communication skills across the curriculum.” The 6 + 1 Traits is the model selected to improve school-wide writing in all subject areas. The 6 + 1 Trait writing framework is a powerful way to learn and use a common language to refer to characteristics of writing as well as establish a common vision of what strong writing looks like. Teachers and students will use the 6 + 1 Trait model to identify areas of strength and weakness as they continue to strive towards continued writing improvement. Success of all students requires that the 6 + 1 trait become a consistent and integral component of each course taught at AFNORTH International High School.

 

Students will write an essay after each chapter summarizing the concepts of  that chapter. This will give the students opportunity to do technical writing. Those essays will be scored based on a rubric involving content, student understanding and use of  the 6 + 1 traits. Students will receive in class training and practice in writing the above paragraphs.

 

COURSE GRADING AND ASSESSMENT:

 

Your marks are cumulative for the semester. Chapter Tests are weighted 35%, quizzes 25%, homework/classwork or homework checks and 6 + 1 trait writing 20% and the Final Exam is 20%. Class work involves taking notes during the lecture, copying the sample problems, and working productively on the classwork/homework assignment for the rest of the period. It also requires bringing a calculator, paper and a writing instrument to every class.  Positive participation, attitude, and being on task throughout the class.

 

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS:

 

It is expected that all students come to class with a willingness to learn. Classroom time is to be used for learning. Behavior should never interfere with learning. No gum chewing is allowed. No Walkmans, earphones, computer games or gameboys are allowed. No hats or headgear of any kind including bandanas are allowed. Students needing to use the restroom and get a drink of water should do so during the very generous 10-minute passing period. Seating assignments are made by the teacher and may change from time to time. Text, calculator and homework are to be brought to all classes.

 

TEXTBOOK:   Crisler, Fisher, and Froelich, Discrete Mathematics Through Applications 2nd ed   W. H. Freeman and Company, New York, 2000.

 

SUPPLIES:

 

A calculator is required for every class. I recommend the TI-83 plus with the graphing screen.  A TI-30 is a great $10 calculator and will be sufficient for many problems. Binder paper, graph paper and a writing instrument are required. One section in the student’s binder for Discrete Math is sufficient. A separate binder for  math is discouraged. Spiral notebook paper is also not recommended.

 

 

HOMEWORK POLICY:

 

Assignments are essential and will be given virtually every day. The assignment will be started  and mostly completed during class. Come in during seminar if you have difficulty with your homework/classwork. I am also available by appointment after school.

 

MAKE-UP WORK POLICY:

 

Students are expected to get assignments prior to planned absences. If you are going to miss 2 or more classes make an appointment and get help before you leave. Quizzes and tests can be made up during Seminar.