AP Pre‑Calculus 2025–2026

Welcome to Mr. Schottle’s Pre‑Calculus Class

Welcome! It’s an honor to be part of the talented and caring staff at Dulles High School. I feel privileged to be your teacher this year. My goal is to create a learning experience that is both challenging and rewarding—within a classroom environment that is safe, respectful, and focused. This document outlines our expectations so we can all begin the year on the same page.

Class Culture

In our classroom, we build everything on a foundation of mutual respect, strong character, integrity, collaboration, and active participation. Everyone’s voice matters, and we treat one another with kindness and fairness. We hold ourselves to high standards—not just academically, but in how we interact and show up each day. We work together, support each other, and value every contribution. This environment helps us all grow—not just as students, but as individuals—and prepares us for success at Dulles and beyond.

Classroom Procedures

This course is fast-paced and aligned to a college-level pace. To maximize instructional time, familiarize yourself with our daily procedures below:

Come to Class Prepared

1. Arrive on time and ready to learn.
2. Bring all required materials each day:
• Charged laptop
• Writing tools (pencil, pen, highlighter, etc.)

Classroom Entry

1. Electronics – you will be assigned a number which will tell you where to store your phone.  The phone compartments will be located on the wall behind the door.  Place them in your assigned slot immediately upon entering the room.   I will check the presence of all phones every day while you are working on the warm up.
2. Check the table by the door for any handouts or notes; take the calculator that is assigned to you (will be assigned the first day) then go directly to your assigned seat.
3. Prepare your desk with binder, laptop, and writing tools.
4. Backpacks go at the back of the room—only essential materials at your desk.
5. Begin the warm‑up activity as soon as you’re seated.

During Direct Instruction

1. No side conversations or talking over me—this time is essential.
2. Raise your hand to ask questions.
3. If misconceptions arise during group work, I may pause class and revert to direct instruction—treat that with the same attentiveness.
4. Stay seated unless directed; raise your hand if you need anything.
5. No restroom passes will be issued during direct instruction.

During Collaborative Work

1. Pair with your designated seat partner. Most activities will involve structured collaboration—engage, share, and support your partner.
2. Use whiteboards or wipe books when directed. Transition quietly and stop promptly when told.

End of Class / Dismissal

1. Complete any exit ticket and submit it as directed.
2. Return borrowed materials and return your calculator to the charging dock.  Return to your desk.
3. Ensure your desk area is clean—nothing on the floor.
4. Remain seated until you are dismissed—only I dismiss you, not the bell.

Additional Information

Contact & Support

If you need help or have questions, I’m available for tutorials on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 6:55 am – 7:25 am before or by appointment. You can reach me via email at: gary.schottle@fortbendisd.gov.

Course Overview & AP Topics

We follow the AP Pre‑Calculus framework, preparing you for college-level work and the AP exam:

• Unit 1: Polynomial & Rational Functions (~30–40% of AP exam)
  Topics: End behavior, zeros (including complex), asymptotes/holes, transformations, modeling.
• Unit 2: Exponential & Logarithmic Functions (~27–40%)
  Topics: Inverse functions, solving expressions/equations, sequences, composition, modeling.
• Unit 3: Trigonometric & Polar Functions (~30–35%)
  Topics: Unit-circle definitions, inverse trig, graphing, sinusoidal modeling, trig equations/inequalities, polar coordinates, rates of change.
• Unit 4: Parameters, Vectors & Matrices (Not on AP exam)
  Topics: Parametric motion, conic sections, vectors, matrices/determinants, modeling with matrices.

Signature

By signing below, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the classroom culture, procedures, and course expectations.

Student Name (printed): ______________________
Student Signature: ___________________________
Date: ___________

Thank you for joining us this year. Let’s build a strong culture of respect, collaboration, integrity, and high achievement together. Looking forward to a great year at Dulles!