Computational Thinking: Good Stuff!
I'm dreaming that all of my students can appreciate the power of this type of thinking and problem solving.
This Is Amazing: It changed my daughters life moments later.
Moments after watching this video with my daughter, the doorbell rang and she greeted the person at the door with the greatest respect and honor.
BREAKING NEWS: NEW Bell Schedule for this Wednesday
Overall, lunch is 15 minutes longer. 5 minutes are being trimmed from periods 2, 4,& 6.
Period 0: No change
Period 2: 8:40-10:15
Nutrition: 10:15-10:25
Passing period: 10:25-10:35
Period 4: 10:35-12:15
Lunch: 12:15-1:10
Passing period: 1:10-1:20
Period 6: 1:20-2:55
Special Triangles and 4 Special Points
What happens when we have form and isosceles and equilateral triangle?
Euler Line
It is so difficult for three lines to intersect making the centroid, orthocenter and circumcenter very special points. It turns out these three points are allowed COLLINEAR, which is amazing! There is also a distance relationship between these three points. Cool stuff.
Summary of Special Segments
Here's a review of Medians, Altitudes, Angle Bisectors and Perpendicular Bisectors along with a review of the special points: Centroid, Orthocenter, Incenter and the Circumcenter.
High Tech Must See: New Type of Interaction
Towards the end, it shows a few 3D- multi-variable equations that you explore in Calculus.
Hard to Describe: Beauty, Concentration, Detail, Balance & Art
It keeps getting better until the very end. Must see!
AHS Graduate: Jason Latimer giving a TED Talk in NYC
Jason is one of the best illusionists/magicians in the world.
Can You Imagine How Much Geometry Is In This New Spherical Camera?
Must See. Cool Holiday Gift Idea.
What is Wind?
All of you should subscribe to the SciShow on Youtube. Hank has an amazing take on life.
Jason Latimer is an AHS Graduate. Jason's Illusions Are Not Meant to Trick You; They Inspire Wonder.
Youtube "Jason Latimer" for a taste of his illusions. Very proud that Jason graduated from AHS around 15 years ago.
Is the Oldest Child Smarter?
There is lots of research and statistical analysis in Sociology. Here's a quick summary of some personality traits of children within families which have been researched for years.
Are you a Creative and Logical Problem Solver?
Engineering is a great career pathway using mathematics.
This video is from my home town in Bayonne, NJ. Bayonne has a a unique bridge but a huge problem. Bayonne has many ports with container ships importing and exporting product around the world. Since the advent of SUPER SIZE Container Ships, engineers have to use their minds to solve the real problem of this bridge being too low for clearance.
Since bridges are the life blood of connecting millions of people on a daily basis, it wasn't possible to tear down the old Bayonne bridge and then build a new one. So these engineers have decided to keep everyday traffic moving while RAISING the bridge. This video does a great job of explaining how this is possible. Cool stuff!
As a related side note, the history of the Panama Canal is amazing. It's a engineering masterpiece; however, when it was built it didn't account for Super Size Container Ships becoming too WIDE/large for the Panama Canal. Did you know they are currently building a new and WIDER Panama Canal?
This video is from my home town in Bayonne, NJ. Bayonne has a a unique bridge but a huge problem. Bayonne has many ports with container ships importing and exporting product around the world. Since the advent of SUPER SIZE Container Ships, engineers have to use their minds to solve the real problem of this bridge being too low for clearance.
Since bridges are the life blood of connecting millions of people on a daily basis, it wasn't possible to tear down the old Bayonne bridge and then build a new one. So these engineers have decided to keep everyday traffic moving while RAISING the bridge. This video does a great job of explaining how this is possible. Cool stuff!
As a related side note, the history of the Panama Canal is amazing. It's a engineering masterpiece; however, when it was built it didn't account for Super Size Container Ships becoming too WIDE/large for the Panama Canal. Did you know they are currently building a new and WIDER Panama Canal?
This Young Inventor Has Changed the World
Bravo to anyone who has the passion and creativity to invent.
Is Perpetual Motion Possible?
Very cool connections between Invention, Mathematics, Physics, Power, Art and Creativity.
RED BULL Stratosphere Jump (Full Video JUMP)
Girl Ski Jumper vs. Red Bull Space Jumper. Which do you prefer?
How Do You Teach Motivation?
This is one of the most popular and fascinating Ted Talks on Motivation. Dan Pink shares some very interesting studies about the science of motivation.
This Ted Talk applies to all of us.
Enjoy
This Ted Talk applies to all of us.
Enjoy
I Hope Ron's Passion Grows on You: Great Story
I can relate. In my family, we grow artichokes, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, squash, corn, strawberries, blueberries, oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.
I hope you enjoy the passion and motivation of Ron Finley. It's a great story.
I hope you enjoy the passion and motivation of Ron Finley. It's a great story.
Service Learning Opportunity and GIVING
Here's the link on AHS's website for opportunities which are updated all the time:
AHS Website Service Learning
I would like all of you to consider this event in a few weeks:
Trail Work Day
As you can see from the first link on the AHS page, the trail work day on October 19th is listed and approved by AHS.
Try to find the time and passion to give to the community throughout your entire life.
For example, I am riding my bike about 100 miles on October 26th for charity and another 100 miles on Novemeber 3rd for a different charity.
Enjoy
Have a safe Homecoming weekend
Steve Jobs
If you don't know the name Steve Jobs, ask around. Changing the world doesn't quite capture his contributions. Most people use his products every day. Take some time to read about his life.
This commencement speech was in 2005.
Steve Job died 2 years ago this week.
Enjoy
This commencement speech was in 2005.
Steve Job died 2 years ago this week.
Enjoy
Is Wikipedia a Credible Source?
D-News, in my opinion, produces great videos for today's youth. Here's D-news talking about why Wikipedia is not considered a credible source in academia.
Enjoy
Enjoy
TEST DAY PROTOCOL....Arrive Early
To help alleviate some of the stress of test days, please read the following:
Please place a quiz pad sheet of paper as a bookmark on the last page of your HW notebook if you are turning in ALL of your HW for the 5% extra bonus.
GEOMETRY READINESS TEST: Print and Self Access
ALL GEOMETRY Students:
Please find the link on the right which says "Geometry Readiness Test"
This was recently created due to the slow boil of realizing that the retention of Algebra skills from middle school are very weak. Solid Algebra 1 skills are essentially for all math classes at AHS.
Please challenge yourself
1) Go to the link and print the Geometry Readiness Test
2) Take the 20 question test
3) The answer key is at the bottom. Please self-grade/assess. Use Integrity.
4) I'm in the process of creating video solution explanations of the answers. Stay tuned for more video solutions.
5) Go to M-10 or support and get a refresher
Here's a sample of the video solution for problems #1-3. Only view/check if you have completed the Readiness Test.
Enjoy
Please find the link on the right which says "Geometry Readiness Test"
This was recently created due to the slow boil of realizing that the retention of Algebra skills from middle school are very weak. Solid Algebra 1 skills are essentially for all math classes at AHS.
Please challenge yourself
1) Go to the link and print the Geometry Readiness Test
2) Take the 20 question test
3) The answer key is at the bottom. Please self-grade/assess. Use Integrity.
4) I'm in the process of creating video solution explanations of the answers. Stay tuned for more video solutions.
5) Go to M-10 or support and get a refresher
Here's a sample of the video solution for problems #1-3. Only view/check if you have completed the Readiness Test.
Enjoy
Amazing Mental and Physical Strength
ABC just featured this amazing woman.
She will be the first woman in the world to make this accomplishment.
The preparation and dedicated is inspirational.
Enjoy
She will be the first woman in the world to make this accomplishment.
The preparation and dedicated is inspirational.
Enjoy
Geometry Readiness TEST: Link on right side
ALL GEOMETRY Students:
Please find the link on the right which says "Geometry Readiness Test"
This was recently created due to the slow boil of realizing that the retention of Algebra skills from middle school are very weak. Solid Algebra 1 skills are essentially for all math classes at AHS.
Please challenge yourself
1) Go to the link and print the Geometry Readiness Test
2) Take the 20 question test
3) The answer key is at the bottom. Please self-grade/assess. Use Integrity.
4) I'm in the process of creating video solution explanations of the answers. Stay tuned for more video solutions.
5) Go to M-10 or support and get a refresher
Here's a sample of the video solution for problems #1-3. Only view/check if you have completed the Readiness Test.
Enjoy
Please find the link on the right which says "Geometry Readiness Test"
This was recently created due to the slow boil of realizing that the retention of Algebra skills from middle school are very weak. Solid Algebra 1 skills are essentially for all math classes at AHS.
Please challenge yourself
1) Go to the link and print the Geometry Readiness Test
2) Take the 20 question test
3) The answer key is at the bottom. Please self-grade/assess. Use Integrity.
4) I'm in the process of creating video solution explanations of the answers. Stay tuned for more video solutions.
5) Go to M-10 or support and get a refresher
Here's a sample of the video solution for problems #1-3. Only view/check if you have completed the Readiness Test.
Enjoy
VIDEO SOLUTION: Project "Think and See Outside the Box"
Being accurate is important but there were a few more valuable lessons to be learned from this project.
1) Seeing shapes from another perspective
2) Learning from your partner
3) Exploring various problem solving strategies
4) Learning from your mistakes
5) Communicating with your partner
6) Reflecting with your written word
7) Learning the universal MLA writing format
8) Following directions
9) Planning ahead with deadlines
10) Challenging yourself
11) Asking questions such as "Are we sure we are done?"
12) Analyzing the effects and dynamics of responsibility vs. leadership vs. age vs. family
13) Choosing to have fun with a challenge
14) Asking, "How would I teach this to another?"
15) Thinking through the details
16) Seeing the bigger picture
17) Keep an open mind
18) Being patient
19) Share ideas
20) ?????
I am so proud after reading your papers. Most of you got so much out of something relatively simple such as counting a bunch of squares.
For your entertainment, watch the following video to see a solution. Enjoy
Please e-mail what else you learned which is not listed above. I'm sure we can add a dozen more lessons from this project.
1) Seeing shapes from another perspective
2) Learning from your partner
3) Exploring various problem solving strategies
4) Learning from your mistakes
5) Communicating with your partner
6) Reflecting with your written word
7) Learning the universal MLA writing format
8) Following directions
9) Planning ahead with deadlines
10) Challenging yourself
11) Asking questions such as "Are we sure we are done?"
12) Analyzing the effects and dynamics of responsibility vs. leadership vs. age vs. family
13) Choosing to have fun with a challenge
14) Asking, "How would I teach this to another?"
15) Thinking through the details
16) Seeing the bigger picture
17) Keep an open mind
18) Being patient
19) Share ideas
20) ?????
I am so proud after reading your papers. Most of you got so much out of something relatively simple such as counting a bunch of squares.
For your entertainment, watch the following video to see a solution. Enjoy
Please e-mail what else you learned which is not listed above. I'm sure we can add a dozen more lessons from this project.
Attention: GEOMETRY STUDENTS: Geometry Readiness Test
ALL GEOMETRY Students:
Please find the link on the right which says "Geometry Readiness Test"
This was recently created due to the slow boil of realizing that the retention of Algebra skills from middle school are very weak. Solid Algebra 1 skills are essentially for all math classes at AHS.
Please challenge yourself
1) Go to the link and print the Geometry Readiness Test
2) Take the 20 question test
3) The answer key is at the bottom. Please self-grade/assess. Use Integrity.
4) I'm in the process of creating video solution explanations of the answers. Stay tuned for more video solutions.
5) Go to M-10 or support and get a refresher
Here's a sample of the video solution for problems #1-3. Only view/check if you have completed the Readiness Test.
Enjoy
Please find the link on the right which says "Geometry Readiness Test"
This was recently created due to the slow boil of realizing that the retention of Algebra skills from middle school are very weak. Solid Algebra 1 skills are essentially for all math classes at AHS.
Please challenge yourself
1) Go to the link and print the Geometry Readiness Test
2) Take the 20 question test
3) The answer key is at the bottom. Please self-grade/assess. Use Integrity.
4) I'm in the process of creating video solution explanations of the answers. Stay tuned for more video solutions.
5) Go to M-10 or support and get a refresher
Here's a sample of the video solution for problems #1-3. Only view/check if you have completed the Readiness Test.
Enjoy
Motivation Monday: Inspiration from Ultra Athletes
It's hard to explain how these 3 athletes push the limits of what humans are capable of achieving mentally and physically.
1) Dean Karnazes: Ultra Runner: Highlight: Ran 50 marathons in 50 days in 50 different states
2) Annie Thorisdottir: Highlight: 2011 and 2012 CrossFit World Champion
3) Ben Lecomte: Ultra Swimmer: Swam across the Atlanta Ocean. Is schedule to swim from Japan to San Francisco within the next few months.
Feel free to google their names and read about their amazing accomplishments. Equally impressive is their giving spirits to several charities raising thousands of dollars and awareness.
When people say, "I didn't know that was even possible." That's cool.
Enjoy
Video of Dean Karnazes: Holds numerous records in Ultra Running
Video of Annie Thorisdottir: 2011 and 2012 CrossFit World Champion
Video of Ben Lecomte: Swam from Maine, USA to Europe across the Atlantic
1) Dean Karnazes: Ultra Runner: Highlight: Ran 50 marathons in 50 days in 50 different states
2) Annie Thorisdottir: Highlight: 2011 and 2012 CrossFit World Champion
3) Ben Lecomte: Ultra Swimmer: Swam across the Atlanta Ocean. Is schedule to swim from Japan to San Francisco within the next few months.
Feel free to google their names and read about their amazing accomplishments. Equally impressive is their giving spirits to several charities raising thousands of dollars and awareness.
When people say, "I didn't know that was even possible." That's cool.
Enjoy
Video of Dean Karnazes: Holds numerous records in Ultra Running
Video of Annie Thorisdottir: 2011 and 2012 CrossFit World Champion
Video of Ben Lecomte: Swam from Maine, USA to Europe across the Atlantic
Attention: GEOMETRY STUDENTS: Geometry Readiness Test
ALL GEOMETRY Students:
Please find the link on the right which says "Geometry Readiness Test"
This was recently created due to the slow boil of realizing that the retention of Algebra skills from middle school are very weak. Solid Algebra 1 skills are essentially for all math classes at AHS.
Please challenge yourself
1) Go to the link and print the Geometry Readiness Test
2) Take the 20 question test
3) The answer key is at the bottom. Please self-grade/assess. Use Integrity.
4) I'm in the process of creating video solution explanations of the answers. Stay tuned for more video solutions.
5) Go to M-10 or support and get a refresher
Here's a sample of the video solution for problems #1-3. Only view/check if you have completed the Readiness Test.
Enjoy
Please find the link on the right which says "Geometry Readiness Test"
This was recently created due to the slow boil of realizing that the retention of Algebra skills from middle school are very weak. Solid Algebra 1 skills are essentially for all math classes at AHS.
Please challenge yourself
1) Go to the link and print the Geometry Readiness Test
2) Take the 20 question test
3) The answer key is at the bottom. Please self-grade/assess. Use Integrity.
4) I'm in the process of creating video solution explanations of the answers. Stay tuned for more video solutions.
5) Go to M-10 or support and get a refresher
Here's a sample of the video solution for problems #1-3. Only view/check if you have completed the Readiness Test.
Enjoy
Nike 'Rise and Shine' commercial - Find Your Greatness
Anyone who has pushed themselves physically and mentally can probably relate to this commercial. Enjoy
How Do You Teach Someone How to be Creative?
In this TED Talk, Julie Burstein does a great job in my opinion about finding your creativity.
She talks about embracing 4 things. Check it out!
Enjoy
She talks about embracing 4 things. Check it out!
Enjoy
Amazing: Exploring Our Underwater World
Here's another TED Talk with a very passionate deep sea explorer. What's NOAA? Enjoy
There is no such thing as a bad TED talk.
There is no such thing as a bad TED talk.
There is No Such Thing as a Bad TED TALK.
This TED TALK is a must see. This presentation reeks passion and love for mathematics. It also connects two famous mathematicians who we have discussed in the first few weeks of the year. Periods 1,3,6 have heard of Euclid who is referenced and my Period 5 class learned about one of Euler's discoveries.
I hope you enjoy this TED TALK as much as I do.
Doing the impossible is fun!
Feel free to view any of the thousands of posted TED TALKS. I created a link to TED.com on this site on the left hand side.
Enjoy
I hope you enjoy this TED TALK as much as I do.
Doing the impossible is fun!
Feel free to view any of the thousands of posted TED TALKS. I created a link to TED.com on this site on the left hand side.
Enjoy
New Link: Learning and Preparing
I just created a new LINK on the RIGHT which outlines all of the resources you have to LEARN and PREPARE.
Go through the resources organized by
1) Day to Day Learning and Preparing
2) Test Preparation
You have a very diversified set of resources to learn and prepare. Take the time to know and explore these resources.
Enjoy the short summary video clip
Invest in your Learning
Go through the resources organized by
1) Day to Day Learning and Preparing
2) Test Preparation
You have a very diversified set of resources to learn and prepare. Take the time to know and explore these resources.
Enjoy the short summary video clip
Invest in your Learning
2013 Geometry STAR Results
I am very proud of the chemistry, work ethic and results of my Geometry Classes from 2012-2013. Here's a 2 minute summary of how they scored.
Welcome 2013-2014
CLICK AROUND to check things out:
- When is your next test? Check out your CALENDAR
- Did you get all of the class notes? Check out NOTES
- What is your current grade? Check the bottom of the emails I send out
- Did you see any of the posted videos? Check out the YOUTUBE CHANNEL and there are more to come
- Are you curious? Check out the LINKS
- Did you want to see the practice tests? Check out PRACTICE TESTS
What is the relationship between the largest HUB of FEDEX and CENTROIDS?
If you were to start a company which resembles and competes against FedEx, where would your HUB be located? Which US City?
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/0xEczrGIy08" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Art Project
Surface Area and Volume Art Projects
Goal:
1) To appreciate the art of design and construction
2) “Show and Tell”
What to do?
1) Using as much CREATIVITY as possible, design and construct a 3-D shape that represents YOU. Please use one or more of the 5 basic shapes we have learned in Chapter 11. (Prisms, Cylinders, Cones, Pyramids, Spheres). I challenge all of you to have more fun with the project and combine two or more shapes together. For example, the “Rocket.” It’s a combination of a cone, cylinder and half a sphere all glued together. Again, I challenge you to use your creativity and offer something new and different.
2) With a measuring tool, measure and calculate your piece of art’s surface area and volume. Be very precise and accurate with your measurements and calculations.
3) Turn in 3 things:
a. Your piece of ART
b. On one sheet of paper draw/sketch your shape, label your measurements, write out your calculations and answers.
c. On another sheet of paper, USE A WORD PROCESSOR and answer the following questions. I challenge you to put forth your best effort.
i. What characteristics or properties does this shape have that symbolize the person you are? I will be the only one to read these reflections. I challenge all of you to learn and share something about yourself that is thought provoking.
ii. Please describe how much time and effort you put into this piece of art.
iii. What was easy for you in this assignment?
iv. What was difficult for you in this assignment?
4) Please staple the 2 pieces together. Write up on top and calculations on the bottom.
Other things to know:
· After you turn your art in, other classmates will carefully measure, calculate and verify you your calculations and answers.
· Turn everything in by the due date.
· No projects will be accepted late and no credit will be given.
· This is an all or nothing assignment.
· You are NOT allowed to use STIROFOAM. You are to CREATE a shape and NOT use a pre-made shape you can buy in a store.
· Follow the directions, and you will receive a 100%.
· I challenge all of you to creative a piece of art that will last forever in my classroom. Please use materials so someone can hold the art and it won’t break.
· You have all seen how much I use these shapes as assistants while I teach Chapter 11. Please help future students from your ART Project.
· Again, I challenge you to find and explore the artists in all of you.
Goal:
1) To appreciate the art of design and construction
2) “Show and Tell”
What to do?
1) Using as much CREATIVITY as possible, design and construct a 3-D shape that represents YOU. Please use one or more of the 5 basic shapes we have learned in Chapter 11. (Prisms, Cylinders, Cones, Pyramids, Spheres). I challenge all of you to have more fun with the project and combine two or more shapes together. For example, the “Rocket.” It’s a combination of a cone, cylinder and half a sphere all glued together. Again, I challenge you to use your creativity and offer something new and different.
2) With a measuring tool, measure and calculate your piece of art’s surface area and volume. Be very precise and accurate with your measurements and calculations.
3) Turn in 3 things:
a. Your piece of ART
b. On one sheet of paper draw/sketch your shape, label your measurements, write out your calculations and answers.
c. On another sheet of paper, USE A WORD PROCESSOR and answer the following questions. I challenge you to put forth your best effort.
i. What characteristics or properties does this shape have that symbolize the person you are? I will be the only one to read these reflections. I challenge all of you to learn and share something about yourself that is thought provoking.
ii. Please describe how much time and effort you put into this piece of art.
iii. What was easy for you in this assignment?
iv. What was difficult for you in this assignment?
4) Please staple the 2 pieces together. Write up on top and calculations on the bottom.
Other things to know:
· After you turn your art in, other classmates will carefully measure, calculate and verify you your calculations and answers.
· Turn everything in by the due date.
· No projects will be accepted late and no credit will be given.
· This is an all or nothing assignment.
· You are NOT allowed to use STIROFOAM. You are to CREATE a shape and NOT use a pre-made shape you can buy in a store.
· Follow the directions, and you will receive a 100%.
· I challenge all of you to creative a piece of art that will last forever in my classroom. Please use materials so someone can hold the art and it won’t break.
· You have all seen how much I use these shapes as assistants while I teach Chapter 11. Please help future students from your ART Project.
· Again, I challenge you to find and explore the artists in all of you.
Advice from Former Students
General Advice
No Cell Phones in Class
Do well on tests
Always study for tests
Always be on-time
Always say "Thank You!"
Never miss class
Take good notes
Always be on-time and in-class
Take notes and get 10/10 on notebook quizzes
When Mr. Keays gives optional work DO IT! Pay Attention!
Always be on time and bring your notebook.
Don’t be absent. You will fall behind!
Bring all your materials.
Make sure you use the memory cards
Ask Mr. Keays about his daughters
Study for all tests and participate as much as you can
Do your HW all of the time because the points will add up
Don’t sleep in class!
Take good notes for every lesson
Don’t do drugs!
Keep everything organized
Turn in your notebook with all complete work
Work very hard at the proofs. Find your LIGHT!
Listen to your teachers
Listen and do not play graphing calculator games
Do the extra HW. It helps you study and it gives you extra points.
Do your HW and study for the tests
Don’t talk while Mr. Keays is talking and be polite
If Mr. Keays says something three times and taps the board with his pen, star the problem in your notebook, because it will be on the test.
Always pay attention…don’t Whine!
Have an A+ friend
Don’t wait to the last week of school to get an A
Take quizzes seriously
Be nice to Mr. Keays and ask about his kids
Say "Thank you!" and be respectful
Do all your work
Do all your work in your notebook
Do your HW!!!!!
You must do your notebook and study for his tests!
Do the optional work
Always do your HW right away and on-time
Always have your binder
Don’t talk when Mr. Keays is talking
Respect Mr. Keays when he is talking
Show him that you care to learn in his class.
Always Participate!
Ask him to go over your HW and TESTS!
Mr. Keays always says, "You have to be perfect at this!" He means it.
When he taps on the board, pay attention!
Always bring your calculator
Don’t fall behind
Always do you HW and never procrastinate and do it at the last minute.
Even though Mr. Keays gives you time in class to start your HW, bring your binder home and do your work
Enjoy the class!
Respect Everyone
Help others
Take the class seriously
Funny Advice
Bring Mr. Keays Amazon Gift Cards
Suck up to Mr. Keays and be careful what you say around him because he might yell at you.
Kiss major butt. Be a brown noser and put candy in notebooks.
Ask Mr. Keays for his Robo-Cop Impersonation.
To kiss up you should bring him chocolate. To kiss up some more, go get his lunch for him.
Bring Mr. Keays Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
Exploit Mr. Keays’ chocolate addiction
Pretend to pay attention
Bring chocolate for Mr. Keays
Bring Mr. Keays candy or EXPO pens if you turn something in late.
Bring Mr. Keays chocolate and kiss major @$$.
Mr. Keays loves chocolate.
No Cell Phones in Class
Do well on tests
Always study for tests
Always be on-time
Always say "Thank You!"
Never miss class
Take good notes
Always be on-time and in-class
Take notes and get 10/10 on notebook quizzes
When Mr. Keays gives optional work DO IT! Pay Attention!
Always be on time and bring your notebook.
Don’t be absent. You will fall behind!
Bring all your materials.
Make sure you use the memory cards
Ask Mr. Keays about his daughters
Study for all tests and participate as much as you can
Do your HW all of the time because the points will add up
Don’t sleep in class!
Take good notes for every lesson
Don’t do drugs!
Keep everything organized
Turn in your notebook with all complete work
Work very hard at the proofs. Find your LIGHT!
Listen to your teachers
Listen and do not play graphing calculator games
Do the extra HW. It helps you study and it gives you extra points.
Do your HW and study for the tests
Don’t talk while Mr. Keays is talking and be polite
If Mr. Keays says something three times and taps the board with his pen, star the problem in your notebook, because it will be on the test.
Always pay attention…don’t Whine!
Have an A+ friend
Don’t wait to the last week of school to get an A
Take quizzes seriously
Be nice to Mr. Keays and ask about his kids
Say "Thank you!" and be respectful
Do all your work
Do all your work in your notebook
Do your HW!!!!!
You must do your notebook and study for his tests!
Do the optional work
Always do your HW right away and on-time
Always have your binder
Don’t talk when Mr. Keays is talking
Respect Mr. Keays when he is talking
Show him that you care to learn in his class.
Always Participate!
Ask him to go over your HW and TESTS!
Mr. Keays always says, "You have to be perfect at this!" He means it.
When he taps on the board, pay attention!
Always bring your calculator
Don’t fall behind
Always do you HW and never procrastinate and do it at the last minute.
Even though Mr. Keays gives you time in class to start your HW, bring your binder home and do your work
Enjoy the class!
Respect Everyone
Help others
Take the class seriously
Funny Advice
Bring Mr. Keays Amazon Gift Cards
Suck up to Mr. Keays and be careful what you say around him because he might yell at you.
Kiss major butt. Be a brown noser and put candy in notebooks.
Ask Mr. Keays for his Robo-Cop Impersonation.
To kiss up you should bring him chocolate. To kiss up some more, go get his lunch for him.
Bring Mr. Keays Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
Exploit Mr. Keays’ chocolate addiction
Pretend to pay attention
Bring chocolate for Mr. Keays
Bring Mr. Keays candy or EXPO pens if you turn something in late.
Bring Mr. Keays chocolate and kiss major @$$.
Mr. Keays loves chocolate.
Links to Check Out
Free E-mail Account/ GMAIL
Civil Engineering
Structurae
That Tutor Guy...On-line Resources
Notes and Quizzes on lots of Math Subjects
On-Line Math Quizzes (Are you ready for College?)
Lots of links to other math sites
Zillion. Videos in Education (Grades 1-12)
Students helping other students (Algebra I)
Scratch! (Express yourself coding. Fun stuff!)
Microsoft in Education Home
Great College Math Site
SED 514 Computers in Education
Dictionary.com
Vocabulary.com
Thesaurus.com
LVUSD ED TECH Blog
Associated Press Wire
Flight Tracking
Onenote
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
www.collegeboard.com
www.princetonreview.com
www.fastweb.com
www.fafsa.ed.gov
www.THEIRCHOICESCHOOL.edu
Civil Engineering
Structurae
That Tutor Guy...On-line Resources
Notes and Quizzes on lots of Math Subjects
On-Line Math Quizzes (Are you ready for College?)
Lots of links to other math sites
Zillion. Videos in Education (Grades 1-12)
Students helping other students (Algebra I)
Scratch! (Express yourself coding. Fun stuff!)
Microsoft in Education Home
Great College Math Site
SED 514 Computers in Education
Dictionary.com
Vocabulary.com
Thesaurus.com
LVUSD ED TECH Blog
Associated Press Wire
Flight Tracking
Onenote
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
www.collegeboard.com
www.princetonreview.com
www.fastweb.com
www.fafsa.ed.gov
www.THEIRCHOICESCHOOL.edu
Inspirational Quotes
"The secret to success is consistency of purpose" Benjamin Disraeli
"Nothing is predestined, the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead tonew beginnings" Ralph Blum
"The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence,regardless of their chosen endeavor." Vincent T. Lombardi
"The journey is the reward." Chinese Proverb
"Waste not time; for that’s the stuff that life is made of." Benjamin Franklin
"At the end of the day, vigorous self examination is the greatest form of maturity." MartinLurther King
"Luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity." Dr. Albert Meinheim
"People cannot discover new lands until they have the courage to lose sight of theshore." Andre Gide
"It’s amazing what ordinary people can do if they set out without preconceived notions."Charles Kettering
"It doesn’t matter what you believe, as long as you’re sincere." Charles M. Schultz
"To build may have to be slow and a laborious task. To destroy can be the thoughtless act of a singleday." Sir Winston Churchill
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyondmeasure." Nelson Mendela
"I will not permit any man to narrow and degrade my soul by making me hate him." Booker T.Washington
"The most important trip in life is meeting people half way." Henry Boyle
"History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived. But if faced with courage, need not be livedagain." Maya Angelou
"The reputation of a thousand years may be determined by the conduct of one hour." JapaneseProverb
"Advice is what we ask for when we already know the answer but wish we didn’t." Erica Jong
"Nothing strengthens the judgement and quickens the conscience like individual responsibility."Elizabeth Cady Stanton
"Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It’s not something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’tlearned anything." Muhammad Ali
"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Eleanor Roosevelt
"Quality in a classical Greek sense is how to live with grace and intelligence, with braveryand mercy." Theodore White
"It’s kind of fun to do the impossible." Walt Disney
"The obscure we see eventually, the completely apparent takes longer." Edward R. Murrow
"If you think you can, you’re right. If you think you can’t, you’re also right." Henry Ford
"The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary." Vidal Sassoon
"Lose an hour in the morning, and you will spend all day looking for it." Richard Whately
"The most exhausting thing in life is being insincere." Ann Morrow Lindbergh
"I hate quotations. Tell me what you know." Ralph Waldo Emerson
"It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters in the end."Ursula K. Le Guin
"It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see." Henry David Thoreau
"The price of greatness is responsibility. "Winston Churchill
"Don’t worry about genius. Don’t worry about being clever. Trust to hard work, perseverance and determination." Sir Thomas Treves
"Quality is everyone’s responsibility." Edward Demming
"Let us not go over the old ground; let us rather prepare for what is to come." Cicero
"Creative thinking may simply mean the realization that there is no particular virtue in doing things the way they have always been done." Rudolph Flesch
"I am a slow walker, but I never walk back" Abraham Lincoln
"Nothing is predestined, the obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead tonew beginnings" Ralph Blum
"The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence,regardless of their chosen endeavor." Vincent T. Lombardi
"The journey is the reward." Chinese Proverb
"Waste not time; for that’s the stuff that life is made of." Benjamin Franklin
"At the end of the day, vigorous self examination is the greatest form of maturity." MartinLurther King
"Luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity." Dr. Albert Meinheim
"People cannot discover new lands until they have the courage to lose sight of theshore." Andre Gide
"It’s amazing what ordinary people can do if they set out without preconceived notions."Charles Kettering
"It doesn’t matter what you believe, as long as you’re sincere." Charles M. Schultz
"To build may have to be slow and a laborious task. To destroy can be the thoughtless act of a singleday." Sir Winston Churchill
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyondmeasure." Nelson Mendela
"I will not permit any man to narrow and degrade my soul by making me hate him." Booker T.Washington
"The most important trip in life is meeting people half way." Henry Boyle
"History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived. But if faced with courage, need not be livedagain." Maya Angelou
"The reputation of a thousand years may be determined by the conduct of one hour." JapaneseProverb
"Advice is what we ask for when we already know the answer but wish we didn’t." Erica Jong
"Nothing strengthens the judgement and quickens the conscience like individual responsibility."Elizabeth Cady Stanton
"Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It’s not something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’tlearned anything." Muhammad Ali
"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." Eleanor Roosevelt
"Quality in a classical Greek sense is how to live with grace and intelligence, with braveryand mercy." Theodore White
"It’s kind of fun to do the impossible." Walt Disney
"The obscure we see eventually, the completely apparent takes longer." Edward R. Murrow
"If you think you can, you’re right. If you think you can’t, you’re also right." Henry Ford
"The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary." Vidal Sassoon
"Lose an hour in the morning, and you will spend all day looking for it." Richard Whately
"The most exhausting thing in life is being insincere." Ann Morrow Lindbergh
"I hate quotations. Tell me what you know." Ralph Waldo Emerson
"It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters in the end."Ursula K. Le Guin
"It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see." Henry David Thoreau
"The price of greatness is responsibility. "Winston Churchill
"Don’t worry about genius. Don’t worry about being clever. Trust to hard work, perseverance and determination." Sir Thomas Treves
"Quality is everyone’s responsibility." Edward Demming
"Let us not go over the old ground; let us rather prepare for what is to come." Cicero
"Creative thinking may simply mean the realization that there is no particular virtue in doing things the way they have always been done." Rudolph Flesch
"I am a slow walker, but I never walk back" Abraham Lincoln
"Many of life's failures are experienced by
people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave
up.." Thomas Edison
"It always seems impossible until it is
done." Nelson Mandela
My Favorite Quote
"Have patience with everything unresolved in your heart and to try to love the questions themselves as if they were locked rooms or books written in a foreign language. Don't search for the answers, which could not be given to you now, because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps then, someday far in the future, you will gradually, without even noticing it, live your way into the answer."
Aeries Info
We are no longer using WEBGRADE. Contact the school on how to log into Aeries to view grades.
How the Grading Works
For all of my math students, your grade is calculated based upon a weighted average.
2014-2015 Weighted Averages
| Tests | 60% | |
| Notebooks | ||
| HW | 0% | |
| Notes | 0% | |
| In Class Problems/ Quizzes | 6% | |
| Projects/Presentations | 12% | |
| Flash Cards | 0% | |
| Participation/Citizenship | 2% | |
| Final Exam | 20% | |
| 100% | ||
Grading Range
98.5-100
|
A+
|
91.5-98.49
|
A
|
89.5-91.49
|
A-
|
88.5-89.49
|
B+
|
81.5-88.49
|
B
|
79.5-81.49
|
B-
|
78.5-79.49
|
C+
|
71.5-78.49
|
C
|
69.5-71.49
|
C-
|
68.5-69.49
|
D+
|
61.5-68.49
|
D
|
59.5-61.49
|
D-
|
0-59.49
|
F
|
Tests
For all math classes other than Computer Science it is an AHS mathematics department policy that you have the option to replace your lowest test score with the average of the lowest test score and your final exam score. (Exception, see note below for 0% cheating grades)
Please, DO NOT MISS the Day of a TEST!!! Expect a different special make-up test if you are absent.
On the average, we have about 5-8 tests per semester.
The tests are more demanding that what most students expect. Tests require a diverse set of problems which will require you to problem solve and connect multiple skills and concepts. The tests do not resemble the easier HW problems.
All tests must be completed before the bell rings.
Most tests will eventually be returned once every student has completed the test. However, all students are welcome to see their test and answers during support period.
Make-ups tests will take place the following “review like” day.
If a student is caught cheating, it is an automatic 0% and a referral to the administration. You are placed on a two year academic probation. In addition, the 0% grade is not eligible to be averaged with your final exam score for the department wide policy. (see policy above) We would use to lowest non-cheating grade to average with the final exam score.
The tests are quite challenging so doing your HW and Khan Academy not only helps you prepare, but you have the potential for a 5% test bonus which is quite generous. Read the details about the test bonus below.
Notebooks (We use separate composition notebooks)
1) Notes Notebook
2) HW Notebook
Even though Notes are worth 0% of your grade, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED you take great notes. On occasion, your NOTES Notebook will be allowed to be used during the test. Consequently, taking better notes can lead to significant help as you prepare and during some tests.
Even though HW is worth 0% of your grade, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you do every HW assignment and reviews. It is nearly impossible to pass the class unless you put quality practice into your test preparation.
By Completing ALL of the following for a chapter
1) HW
2) Textbook Reviews
3) Recommended Khan Assignment achieving the Mastery status for each assignment.
you will get an 5% EXTRA TEST points. You cannot get any extra credit points unless every HW assignment, textbook reviews and mastery level is achieved on the recommended Khan Assignments. These assignments are usually due the day of the test. You cannot go back at the end of the semester and then attempt your HW and Khan.
To get the bonus extra test points 1) Complete 2) On time
Sign up for a free Khan Academy account and select me as your "COACH." More details to follow. At the start of every chapter, you will see your Recommended Khan Assignments. You must achieve the MASTERY level on all of the assignments to qualify for the test bonus. There are built in timers within Khan so you cannot achieve mastery in a short time. Please start early at least a week before the test date.
In Class Problems/Quizzes
In class problems/quizzes are usually easy and serve as a guide as we progress through the learning process. They are usually very short with just 1 problem. (100% or 0%). The in class problems/quizzes are mostly based upon what we learned that day. These short problems/quizzes are like temperature readings as we teach new material, therefore the problems/quizzes are elementary in nature.
Over the course of the semester, we will take as many as 50 quizzes each worth a variety of points.
If you are absent the day we take a quiz, there are no make-ups. However, the next quiz you take will be worth double. If you miss two quizzes, the next quiz will be worth triple and so on.
Quizzes are rarely returned since you will probably know your grade right away. However, all students are welcome to see their quizzes and answers during support.
A majority of these problems/quizzes are usually taken with a buddy where you turn in 1 piece of paper with 2 names on top.
Projects/ Presentations
Throughout the semester, I will assign projects and presentations on a variety of topics dealing with all sorts of problem solving, creativity and exploration.
These projects and presentations are designed for students to challenge themselves, use their creativity, discovery new things and are non-traditional in nature.
Flashcards
Even though Flashcards are worth 0% of your grade, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED you use the recommended flashcard topics list and create a set of flashcards for every test. On occasion, I allow students to use their flashcards during the test. The students who make them will be at an advantage. Not only do you learn through making the flashcards, there is a chance you will be rewarded by being allowed to use them during the test. You will not be allowed to use somebody else's flashcards.
Use the recommended Flashcard Topics List on our class website
Due to test security, make-up tests are taken with different tests and under different conditions with respect to flashcards and notes. Be present the day of tests.
Participation/ Citizenship
This grade is subjective based upon your in-class contribution with standards based activities. Display great leadership skills and be positive.
Writing Responsibilities
As we transition into Common Core, you will see lots of writing across all classes. You are expected to write your best work and use the standard MLA format with all papers. I suggest you use your Google Drive account to create documents so that when I require you to turn it in via a link, Google Drive will give you a link to submit to me.
Final Exams
In the mathematics department, the first semester is given the week prior to winter vacation.
The second semester final is given during the last week of school during finals week.
All finals are departmental and comprehensive.
Semester Bonus: Khan Academy Bonus
If you complete these 2 things, you will get an additional 2% added to your overall grade at the end of the semester.
1) You must complete 1200 minutes of Khan per semester AND
2) You must obtain 250,000 Khan Academy Points
Due date will be announced.
It is nearly impossible to achieve this bonus unless you devote quality time throughout the semester.
Great Citizenship
Being grateful
Being kind
Having manners
Being respectful
Smile
Desire to learn
Being on-time
Being prepared
Being organized
Checking your answers
Asking questions
Moving with a sense of emergency
When wrong, being apologetic
When disrepectful, being apologetic
Energetic
Pride in your notebook
Picking up trash
Volunteering
Looking out for others
Tutoring others
Raising your hand
Being involved in sports, activities, arts, and/or clubs
Internal happiness
Social life (music, culture, fashion, T.V., foods, history, travel)
Keep your test work in front of your eyes only
Bring something to read the day of the test.
Being kind
Having manners
Being respectful
Smile
Desire to learn
Being on-time
Being prepared
Being organized
Checking your answers
Asking questions
Moving with a sense of emergency
When wrong, being apologetic
When disrepectful, being apologetic
Energetic
Pride in your notebook
Picking up trash
Volunteering
Looking out for others
Tutoring others
Raising your hand
Being involved in sports, activities, arts, and/or clubs
Internal happiness
Social life (music, culture, fashion, T.V., foods, history, travel)
Keep your test work in front of your eyes only
Bring something to read the day of the test.
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