4 minute read
Mathematics and Computer Science (Cont.)
Algebra 1 (1 credit, full year)
9th, 10th
This course introduces students to the essential concepts of Algebra as they develop reasoning and problem-solving skills. Major topics will include Solving equations, inequalities, and systems of equations; the fundamentals of exponents, radicals, and factoring; graphing and understanding linear and quadratic functions. This course will also emphasize the skills necessary to be successful in any math classroom. Students will be encouraged to develop the initiative necessary to work through challenging problems individually and cooperatively, making appropriate use of resources.
Geometry (1 credit, full year)
Prerequisite: Algebra 1
9th, 10th
Students will study Euclidean Geometry, emphasizing problem-solving, proofs, and graphing in the coordinate plane. Topics include properties of figures in two and three dimensions, similarity, congruence, area, and right triangle trigonometry. Students will work collaboratively and be expected to justify and explain their reasoning – especially in the context of two-column proofs – and use tools like the free-to-use Geogebra. Though the course will review many algebra topics, a strong foundation in solving and graphing linear equations is expected. Familiarity with the following topics is expected: solving single variable equations and systems of equations. Graphing lines, identifying slopes, and y-intercepts. Factoring basic quadratic equations.
Honors Geometry (1 credit, full year)
Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Department Permission Required
9th, 10th
Students will study Euclidean Geometry with an emphasis on problem-solving, construction, proofs, and graphing in the coordinate plane. Topics include properties of figures in two and three dimensions, similarity, area, volume, and right triangle trigonometry. Students will frequently work collaboratively and be expected to justify and explain their reasoning using tools like a geometer’s compass and the free-to-use graphing software Geogebra. The course is heavily problem-based and designed to develop skills, conceptual understanding, and synthesis of content across topics. Students should be prepared to meet honors-level expectations of challenge and rigor, with homework requirements frequently reaching three hours per week. Familiarity with the following Algebra 1 topics is expected: solving systems of equations, graphing linear equations, ratios and proportions, irrational numbers, and solving quadratic equations by factoring.
Global Online Academy: Geometry (1 Credit, Summer)
Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Department Permission Required
9th, 10th
This intensive summer course is designed to provide an accelerated path through the traditional high school geometry curriculum. Focusing on Euclidian geometry, students examine topics relating to parallel lines, similar and congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, and circles. Students can expect to analyze lengths, areas, and volumes of two- and three-dimensional figures and explore transformations and other manipulations. Particular attention is paid to introductory trigonometry with right triangles and the study of circles (radians, sectors, arc length, etc). In addition, the development of a mature, logical thought process will begin through a formal introduction to arguments, deductions, theorems, and proofs. Because this course covers topics that are typically presented in a yearlong course, students should expect to dedicate 15-20 hours per week during the intensive seven-week summer session.
Algebra 2 (1 credit, full year)
Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Geometry
10th, 11th
This course continues the study of algebra, reviews concepts seen in Algebra 1, and serves as a natural extension of the topics covered in Algebra 1. The course prepares students to complete Fundamentals of Precalculus successfully. Topics include proportions, factoring, solving equations and inequalities (including absolute values), solving linear systems with graphing, substitution, elimination, and linear programming. This course’s major focus is solving linear and quadratic functions and equations, along with basic exponential and logarithmic functions and equations. A study of rational and radical functions will also be introduced. Familiarity with the following topics is expected: identifying & graphing linear equations, solving linear equations, identifying & solving basic systems of equations, solving inequalities, simplifying expressions, and using ratios & proportions.
Algebra 2/Trigonometry (1 credit, full year)
Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Geometry
9th, 10th, 11th
Designed for students with one or more years of algebra and one full year of geometry, this course continues the study of algebra and reviews work with linear functions and systems. The course introduces various function families, including absolute value, quadratics, exponential, logarithmic, radical, and rational functions. The second semester of the course will introduce the fundamentals of trigonometry and will aim to prepare students for Precalculus. Familiarity with the following topics is expected: solving single variable and systems of equations, graphing linear equations, ratios, and proportions, and solving quadratic equations by factoring. Solving Right Triangles using trigonometry.
Honors Algebra 2/Trigonometry (1 credit, full year)
Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Geometry, Honors Geometry, Department Permission Required
9th, 10th, 11th
This two-semester, highly accelerated discussion-based course covers a vast breadth of advanced algebra topics. The pace is demanding, and the dense problem sets that students will encounter will be challenging. For students who have completed a thorough study of Algebra I and Geometry, some topics will be familiar, though likely presented in novel contexts; other ideas and techniques will be new. This course is designed to prepare highly motivated students who are interested in striving for EHS’ advanced offerings, including BC Calculus and higher levels. Familiarity with the following topics is expected: solving systems of equations, graphing linear equations, ratios, and proportions, and solving quadratic equations by factoring. Knowledge of functions and function notation. Basic understanding of trigonometry including: Sine, Cosine, and Tangent.
Fundamentals of Precalculus (1 credit, full year)
Prerequisite: Algebra 2
11th, 12th
This course begins with a review of linear functions and then moves on to the graphs and transformations of various functions (quadratic, rational, radical, and absolute value). The course continues into a study of the basics of trigonometry. Emphasis is placed on equation solving, graphing, and reinforcing algebraic skills and concepts. Familiarity with the following topics is expected: solving systems of equations, graphing linear equations, ratios, and proportions, and solving quadratic equations by factoring.