For example, one module is a general purpose graphing tool. Another can be used to find the closest line to a set of data points. In addition to these general use tools, there are some other modules designed to demonstrate or emphasize specific concepts in the course. These will give you a chance to see for yourself that the ideas presented in the text are correct, and how they arise. Calculator You will need to use a calculator for a significant portion of the course.
Some students find a graphing calculator especially useful.
I am most familiar with the TI 82 graphing calculator, and will probably use that in class for demonstration purposes. This component of the your grade will be reflect several things, including quiz results, group activities, and projects, as well as my subjective evaluation of the progress you show in class or in discussions during office hours. This will be based primarily on a portfolio that you compile throughout the semester, as described below. However, if you elect not to hand in a portfolio, or if your portfolio grade is lower than the average of your exam grades, it will be ignored. That is, your record for classwork and projects cannot lower your final grade.