Departments
Mathematics
The math department curriculum and organization is based on the sequential nature of mathematics. Because of this, placement of the student in the proper course is essential to achieving success. There are various paths established to meet the needs of our various college-bound students. Each course consists of a blend of skills and applications of concepts. Technology is integrated into each course. Algebra I and Geometry are the only courses that do not require a graphing calculator. The TI-83 Plus/TI-84 is recommended for all other classes. (AP Calculus students may want to consider using a TI-89). Students may begin their freshman year in Algebra I, Geometry, or in some cases Algebra II.
Algebra I
1 credit, Grade 9
In this course, students learn to describe the world around them with algebraic expressions, equations, graphs, and statistics. Applications, calculators, and computers provide a context for the abstract language of algebra. This course involves the understanding of algebra through skills, properties, uses and representations.
Geometry
1 credit, Grade 9, 10
Prerequisite: Algebra I
This course integrates algebra with geometry. It introduces students to age-old concepts of geometry, such as area, volume, and proofs as they apply to triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles. In addition it incorporates other newer topics of geometry such as transformations, networks, and tessellations. Reading, problem solving and real life applications are emphasized throughout the course.
Algebra II
1 credit , Grade 9, 10, 11
Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry
This course consists of a thorough study of algebra in which many concepts and skills of Algebra 1 are reviewed and extended. The course begins with a unit on variations and graphs, linear relations and matrices. Systems of equations, exponent and roots, and functions from Algebra I are discussed in more detail. Students will also explore the concepts of real and complex numbers, rational expressions, and quadratic equations. Real-world applications will help the students see why their math study is useful. The student will use a graphing calculator to assist in linear programming, help visualize graphs, determine line of best fit for scatter plots, and examine shape and behavior of polynomial functions.
Advanced Algebra
1 credit, Grade 10, 11
Prerequisite: Algebra II
The purpose of this course is to continue to study the concepts of Algebra I and II. Many topics from these two courses will be reviewed and extended. Solving linear and non-linear equations and inequalities, and the study of different types of functions and their graphs are major points of emphasis. Polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions are all covered in great detail. Other topics such as systems of equations and matrices are included. Real-world applications will help the students see why their math study is useful. This course will provide an excellent opportunity for students to improve their algebra skills, especially for those students that are not quite ready to take Pre-Calculus or for those college-bound students pursuing a field outside of math or science.
Pre-Calculus
1 credit , Grade 10,11,12
Prerequisites: Algebra II (Min. Avg. 80%) or Advanced Algebra (Min. Avg. 80%) and Math teacher/ departmental recommendation
The purpose of this class is to prepare students for calculus and the rigors of college algebra. The course will be taught as a college course with all the expectations associated with college bound students. Among the topics covered are multivariable equations: properties of trigonometric and circular functions and their application in problem solving; graphing of trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions; matrices; analytical geometry and an introduction to polar coordinates and conic sections; complex numbers and infinite series; polynomial and rational functions. A thorough foundation in Algebra II and a proven work ethic are necessary for success in this course. Students should be prepared for an intensive, demanding study in preparation for higher mathematics.
Calculus (Honors)
1 credit, Grade 11, 12
Prerequisites: Pre-Calculus (Min. Avg. 80%) and math teacher/ departmental recommendation
Calculus is a college-level, honors course designed for students who will pursue a study of the math or science in the future. Limits are taught as the foundation of calculus that leads into the study of differentiation and integration. Differentiation and integration rules are taught at length followed by various applications of these operations. Some topics of discussion include applications to physics, related rates, optimization, differential equations, area, volume, and arc length. A thorough foundation in Pre-Calculus and a proven work ethic are necessary for success in this course. Students should be prepared for an intensive, demanding study in preparation for higher mathematics.
AP Calculus AB
1 credit , Grade 11, 12
Prerequisites: Pre-Calculus (Min. Avg. 80%) and math teacher/ departmental recommendation.
AP Calculus AB is a first-level, college course designed for students who will pursue a study of the math or science in the future. The AP Calculus syllabus provided by the College Board will be followed with the culmination of the course leading to the taking of the AP Calculus AB exam. Limits are taught as the foundation of calculus that leads into the study of differentiation and integration. Differentiation and integration rules are taught at length followed by various applications of these operations. Some topics of discussion include applications to physics, related rates, optimization, differential equations, area, volume, and arc length. A thorough foundation in Pre-Calculus and a proven work ethic are necessary for success in this course. Students should be prepared for an intensive, demanding study in preparation for higher mathematics.
AP Calculus BC
1 credit, Grade 11, 12
Prerequisites: AP Calculus AB (Min. Avg. 80%, 3+ on AP Calculus AB Exam) and math teacherdepartmental recommendation
AP Calculus BC is a second-level, college course designed for students who will pursue a study of the math or science in the future. The AP Calculus BC syllabus provided by the College Board will be followed with the culmination of the course leading to the taking of the AP Calculus BC exam. Some topics from Calculus will be revisited including extensive applications of differentiation and integration. Other topics studied will be new integration techniques, such as integrating improper integral and integration by parts. Differential equations, infinite sequence and series, and vectors will also be covered. A thorough foundation in AP Calculus and a proven work ethic are necessary for success in this course. Students should be prepared for an intensive, demanding study in preparation for higher mathematics.
Statistics
½ credit Grade 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Algebra II
This course is designed to develop the insight and skills needed to confront the challenges posed by our data-oriented society. The emphasis is on understanding the real world application of statistics, not on mathematical theory. Techniques learned will be applied to current events and projects which students will design.
Problem Solving
½ credit Grade 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Algebra II
For those students who enjoy mathematics or who would like to see mathematics from a different perspective, problem solving offers an opportunity to explore areas of mathematics not usually seen in the regular classroom. Topics are covered with an investigative approach, using tools such as diagrams, systematic lists, matrix logic, patterns, physical representations, working backwards, and working sub-problems.