Ontario Ministry-Inspected Private School BSID 882882 Markham, Ontario
Canada Nord Academy

Ontario high school · Online learning

MCR3UFunctions

Course Description

This course introduces the mathematical concept of the function by extending students’ experiences with linear and quadratic relations. Students will investigate properties of discrete and continuous functions, including trigonometric and exponential functions; represent functions numerically, algebraically, and graphically; solve problems involving applications of functions; investigate inverse functions; and develop facility in determining equivalent algebraic expressions. Students will reason mathematically and communicate their thinking as they solve multi-step problems.

Unit OrderUnit NameSuggested Time
Unit 1Characteristics of Functions25 hrs
Unit 2Exponential Functions25 hrs
Unit 3Discrete Functions25 hrs
Unit 4Trigonometric Functions25 hrs
FinalFinal Exam10 hrs
Total110 hrs

Unit Description

Unit 1 — Characteristics of Functions

In this unit, students will build on the algebraic skills they developed in the previous unit. Students will learn concepts such as domain and range, transformations of basic functions, and inverse functions. Most of these concepts are considered foundational skills that will be developed further throughout this course. This unit will also introduce new notation that uses the concept of the function.

Unit 2 — Exponential Functions

In this unit, students will identify specific characteristics of exponential functions that can be observed both graphically and, in their equations, and apply familiar transformations to the graphs of exponential functions. Students will solve exponential equations using algebraic strategies and exponent laws. Students will also analyze and solve real-world scenarios and problems using exponential functions.

Unit 3 — Discrete Functions

In this unit, students are introduced to a new type of function: the discrete function. In this course, discrete functions will take the form of sequences and series. A sequence is a list of numbers with some discernible pattern. Think back to your early studies of mathematics. You may recall problems that would present you with a list of numbers and it was your job to determine the pattern and maybe even predict the next three terms in the sequence. This unit will involve building on students knowledge of sequences like these, but they will be modelling them using functions that allow them to predict any term in the sequence.

Unit 4 — Trigonometric Functions

In this unit, students will be reintroduced to the familiar concepts of SOH CAH TOA, Sine law and Cosine law. Students will build on them, leading to an introduction of trigonometric functions. By the end of this unit, students will have an understanding of trigonometric functions and how they can be used to model phenomenon such as the swinging of a pendulum.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

A variety of teaching and learning strategies are used to allow students many opportunities to attain the necessary skills for success in this course and in future studies. In all activities, consideration will be taken to ensure that individual student’s multiple intelligences and learning strengths are addressed through the use of varied and multiple activities in each lesson.

Examples of some of the activities included in a course are in the chart below.

Online Learning ActivitiesOffline Learning Activities
Watching instructional videosReading materials for course
Engaging in discussions with peers on the discussion forums (one per unit)Studying instructional material
Completing online timed assignmentsPracticing skills
Completing online timed testsCompleting assignments
Completing inquiry and research activitiesPreparing presentations
Practicing through online quizzesReviewing for tests and exams

Assessment and Evaluation

Per the guidelines outlined in Growing Success (2010), the core objective of student assessment and evaluation is to enhance and advance student learning.

As an essential component of assessment, teachers deliver specific, descriptive feedback to students to support and direct their ongoing learning progress. In contrast, evaluation involves measuring student work quality against established provincial criteria and assigning a final rating that accurately reflects overall academic performance. While instruction covers all curriculum expectations, formal evaluation focuses specifically on students’ mastery of overarching course expectations.

Student academic performance is evaluated based on defined curriculum-specific expectations. Educators exercise professional judgment to select which individual curriculum expectations will be used to assess mastery of overall course standards. Additional expectations may be integrated into daily instruction and formative assessment but not counted toward formal evaluative grading. To guarantee valid, equitable, and consistent assessment and evaluation practices, teachers adhere to a set of standardized strategies that meet the following criteria:

  • Evaluate both the content students have learned and their overall level of proficiency
  • Align strictly with the standardized achievement level descriptions outlined in the provincial achievement chart
  • Incorporate diverse, ongoing assessment methods administered across the entire course timeline, providing students with multiple opportunities to demonstrate their full range of learning outcomes
  • Match the design of learning activities, instructional goals, and students’ unique backgrounds, experiences, and learning requirements
  • Uphold equity and fairness for all student learners
  • Supply students with clear, actionable guidance for academic improvement
  • Include authentic student work samples as formal evidence of academic achievement

The provincial achievement chart divides student knowledge and skills into four core evaluative categories:

  • Knowledge and Understanding
  • Critical Thinking
  • Communication
  • Application

Teachers conduct balanced assessment and evaluation across all four categories throughout the course. Students earn course credit and a final recorded grade if their overall course mark is 50% or higher. The final course grade is calculated based on the following weighted breakdown:

75% Term Work and Attendance: Seventy percent of the final grade is derived from ongoing formative and summative evaluations completed during the course. This weighting reflects students’ consistent academic performance over time, with appropriate priority given to recent demonstration of learning growth and mastery.

25% Final Evaluation: Thirty percent of the final grade is determined by a comprehensive final assessment administered near the conclusion of the course.

Special Accommodations

Special Education Support

Teachers are responsible for supporting all students with special education needs. They should work collaboratively with special education staff and use assessment data to create Individual Education Plans (IEPs). The planning process involves determining if a student requires accommodations only, modified expectations, or alternative expectations. The goal is to provide the necessary support to maximize a student's success, with accommodations being the first option considered.

English Language Learner Support

English language learners (ELLs) bring a rich diversity of backgrounds and experiences to the classroom. Teachers create an inclusive and supportive environment by adapting their instruction to meet varying levels of English proficiency. This can involve modifying expectations, using visual aids and first-language support, and incorporating culturally relevant resources. It's important to recognize that some students may need continued instructional support even after receiving formal ESL services.

Reference & Resources

Mathematics, The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 and 12, 2007 (Revised) http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/secondary/math1112currb.pdf

CAD $ 499.00Canadian Student Price
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