AP Statistics Syllabus  2016 – 2017
Mr. Rawlings

The purpose of the AP Statistics course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes:

I.            Exploring Data: Describing patterns and departures from patterns (20%–30%)
II.           Sampling and Experimentation: Planning and conducting a study (10%–15%)
III.          Anticipating Patterns: Exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation (20%–30%)
IV.          Statistical Inference: Estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses (30%–40%)

In colleges and universities, the number of students who take a statistics course is almost as large as the number of students who take a calculus course. An introductory statistics course, similar to the AP Statistics course, is typically required for majors such as social sciences, health sciences, and business. Science, engineering, and mathematics majors usually take an upper-level calculus-based course in statistics, for which the AP Statistics course is effective preparation.

The AP Statistics Exam is 3 hours long and seeks to determine how well a student has mastered the concepts and techniques of the subject matter of the course. This paper-and-pencil exam consists of (1) a 90-minute multiple-choice section testing proficiency in a wide variety of topics, and (2) a 90-minute free-response section requiring the student to answer open-ended questions and to complete an investigative task involving more extended reasoning. In the determination of the score for the exam, the two sections will be given equal weight. Students who successfully complete this course and exam may receive credit, advanced placement, or both for a one-semester introductory college statistics course.

AP SCORE
5 Extremely well qualified
4 Well qualified
3 Qualified
2 Possibly qualified
1 No recommendation

Grading
A semester exam will be given at the end of the first semester and will be 20% of your first semester grade. All other work will be weighted as follows:

        Coursework (home and in-class)                       25%       (see rubric)          
        Tests                                                                          75%

Coursework
The productive use of class time is an absolute requirement for us to be able to cover the curriculum. Your cooperation and commitment are essential not only for your success, but for the success of your classmates as well. Assignments must be completed in a timely manor. The major portion of your coursework grade is your ability to critically discuss your assignments with your peers and with your teacher. If you fall behind, it will be very difficult to participate in the necessary discussions. The amount of time you spend working at home is determined by your ability to stay caught up.

Tests
This portion of the grade will include all independently written assignments such unit tests, quizzes, and small projects. Each will be weighted according to their relative importance.

Communication of Grades
Grades will be periodically posted online. Please check your grades on a regular basis so that you are aware of your progress.  I expect that both you and your parents are monitoring your grade online.  Please alert me if you notice any inaccuracies. If your grade is not what you expect, communicating with me early and often is essential.

Late and Missed Work
See Coursework section above.

Extra Help
Please seek extra assistance when you are having difficulties. My planning periods are C, D, and G. If you need assistance at other times, I am usually available before or after school. Arranging a time in advance is best but not required. Don't be shy!

My email address:
arawlings@g-cacegypt.org