Welcome to the 2011-2012 Villa Madonna Academy school year!!!!

GEOMETRY  (Periods B, C):  Through class participation, lecture, and meaningful assignments, the course of Geometry is studied.  Knowing definitions, postulates, and theorems are a must (memorization is NOT encourage, but understanding of them is).  Classes sometimes work is groups, as well as individually.

Tests are normally given every two or three weeks (chapter tests).  Students are given notice of these dates.  Quizzes are given at any time and are not announced.  This requires the students keep up with assignments. Homework assignments are usually required to be turned in on Friday of each week.  Homework assignments can improve a student's quarter grade as much as 10% if all accepted.

Geometric constructions are performed by the students later in the school year, normally in January.  Needed are "good" compasses, straightedges, and plenty of paper.  This will enhance the student's understanding of the geometric topics that have been discussed and those topics forthcoming.

All geometry students will take a practice ACT test in the early spring.  This will be scored and test processes will be discussed.  The ACT math sections normally contain 50% geometry, therefore, taking the testing situation is important at this point in their math experience

The fourth quarter will attempt to complete Chapter 10 ( Circles ), Chapter 11  (Areas of Polygons and Circles), and Chapter 12 ( Surface Areas of Solids).  Mostly solving of problems vs. analyzing proofs will be the focus of these final chapters.  There will be three tests for the remaining of the quarter.  Review for the Final Exam will occur the final two or three days.

 ..ALGEBRA ONE (Period A, D):  Basic algebra properties, and problem solving are the basis of this course.  Not only performance of material, but understanding the "Why" is emphazized.  Involving the students in the lectures, problem solving sessions is  important.  Some times working in groups is emphasized where explaining to others is needed. 

Tests usually occur after chapters are completed and normally occur every two to three weeks.   Quizzes are given but not announced to the students in advance.  This forces students to keep their work (homework assignments, etc) up to date.  Homework is collected on Friday of each week.  If all homework is accepted, a students grade for the quarter is increased at much as 10%. Calculators are not encouraged in this course.

As the fourth quarter nears its endiing, we will have two more tests   (Chapter 11 B  --  Trigonometry and Chapter 12 -- Rational Expressions).  If time permits, we will explore extra word problems (practical examples) which will use Algebra I that we have covered.

NOTE TO ALL STUDENTS!!!  (See below)

Students can always arrange for extra help (tutoring) by just informing Mr. Shields.  Times can then be set and arranged either before school or after school.  Parents can contact Mr. Shields anytime at the e-mail address: