The Agnes Irwin School | Empowering Girls Since 1869
Mathematics Algebra I This year-long course is reserved for students new to The Agnes Irwin School. The focus of this course is to provide a solid foundation for higher study of mathematics, as it is a critical element in secondary mathematics. This course includes recognizing and developing patterns using tables, graphs and equations, while covering the following topics: linear, quadratic, rational, radical, and exponential functions. Algebra IB This course is the second half of the foundation course for Upper School mathematics and consists of the traditional college-preparatory program. Topics include polynomials, factoring, exponents and exponential functions, quadratic, radical and rational equations and functions. Students are also introduced to basic geometry concepts in an algebraic framework. Geometry This is a study of Euclidean Geometry concentrating on geometric reasoning, lines, angles, triangles, polygons, and circles. Students solve problems using the Pythagorean Theorem and right triangle trigonometry and find the areas and volumes of plane and solid figures. Note: Geometry is offered over the summer and requires the recommendation of the Mathematics Department. Geometry Accelerated Geometry Accelerated covers the topics of Geometry at an increased level of depth and rigor. Students are challenged to explore geometric properties and theorems in dynamic software. Prerequisite: B in Algebra I Part II, and recommendation of the Mathematics Department. Algebra II This course expands upon many of the topics from Algebra I, but at a deeper and more complex level. Students enrolled in this course examine topics such as quadratic and polynomial functions and equations, systems of equations, complex numbers, radical, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions. Prerequisite: C– in Algebra IB. Students who need to strengthen their algebra skills may be recommended for summer work.
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Algebra II Accelerated Algebra II Accelerated involves a more rigorous dive into the topics of Algebra II, covering the content in greater depth and at a faster pace. The course covers additional topics such as sequences, combinatorics, probability, conic sections, and basic trigonometry. Prerequisite: B in Algebra I Part II or A in both Algebra IB and Geometry and recommendation of the Mathematics Department. Algebra II Honors Algebra II Honors covers the topics of Algebra II Accelerated at a heightened pace and requires students to be more independent learners and thinkers in all aspects of the class. Students enrolled in this course should have a strong background in Algebra and an ability to creatively problem solve. Prerequisite: B in Algebra I Honors and Geometry Honors, or A in both Algebra I Accelerated and Geometry Accelerated, and recommendation of the Mathematics Department. Precalculus This course strengthens students’ algebraic foundations while introducing them to new and challenging concepts. Topics addressed include polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic equations and functions, and unit circle trigonometry. Students also get a preview into the concepts of Calculus. Prerequisite: B in Algebra II. Precalculus Accelerated Precalculus Accelerated offers a more rigorous approach to the topics of Precalculus, covering additional topics such as graphing trigonometric functions and inverse trigonometry. Prerequisite: B in Algebra II Accelerated and recommendation of the Mathematics Department. Precalculus Honors Precalculus Honors is a fast-paced and challenging course that prepares students for Honors Calculus I. The course covers trigonometry, logarithmic, exponential and algebraic functions, sequences and series, limits, and analytic geometry. Prerequisite: B in Algebra II Honors and recommendation of the Mathematics Department.
