MATHEMATICS COURSES MATHEMATICS COURSES

Algebra 1

It is expected that students entering this course have mastered concepts and skills listed in the Advanced PreAlgebra course description. Topics in Algebra 1 include solving multi step equations and inequalities, exponents, polynomials, factoring, graphs, linear equations, systems of equations, rational expressions, radicals, functions, and quadratic equations. This course emphasizes the connections among the visual, verbal, written, and real-world representations of mathematics. Throughout the curriculum, integration of algebraic concepts and problem-solving applications are emphasized.

Honors Algebra 1

Advanced PreAlgebra or its equivalent, and departmental approval.

This is an advanced course designed for the student who has demonstrated an appreciation for mathematics as a creative process as well as a computational tool. This course presents the same topics as Algebra I, only with greater stress on conceptual thinking and abstraction. A student enrolled in this course is required to solve a great variety of word problems and, thus, must possess strong reading skills.

Geometry

Prerequisite: Algebra I.

This course offers an excellent introduction to logical thinking and deductive reasoning. Topics covered include points, lines, planes, angles, triangles, quadrilaterals, coordinate geometry, circles, and basic trigonometry. Proof is emphasized during the first half of the year especially with parallel lines, congruent triangles, and quadrilaterals. Digital tools and manipulatives are used to investigate certain concepts and develop students’ logical reasoning skills. In addition, a review of basic algebra skills is incorporated throughout the course to assure the students’ continued progress and to prepare them for Algebra 2/Trigonometry, the next course in the mathematics sequence.

Honors Geometry

Prerequisite: Honors Algebra I with a grade of “B” or better, or departmental approval.

This course covers much of the same material as the regular Geometry course, with a heavy emphasis on proofs. Most theorems taught are proven in class or left as homework exercises for students to complete independently. Digital tools are used to investigate certain concepts and develop students’ logical reasoning skills. This class is designed for highly motivated students who enjoy solving mathematical problems and demonstrate a strong ability to think and write logically.

Algebra 2/Trigonometry

Prerequisite: Geometry. Algebra 2 topics include polynomials, factoring, linear equations, radicals, and linear, absolute value, quadratic, and exponential functions and their graphs. Trigonometry topics include the six functions and their inverses, the unit circle with degree and radian measure, application problems, and solving equations. Emphasis is placed on connecting equations and functions with their respective data and graphs. Students are required to purchase a graphing calculator prior to enrolling in this course. Using this calculator to analyze graphs and as a problem-solving tool is a significant part of the course.

Honors Algebra 2/Trigonometry

Prerequisites: Honors Geometry with a grade of “B” or better, or departmental approval.

This course is designed for those students who have demonstrated a talent for mathematics and possess strong analytical reasoning skills. An extensive review of concepts developed in Algebra 1 is undertaken, which include quadratic equations and their graphs, rational equations, exponents and radicals, products and factoring, and function notation. New topics include: rational and quadratic inequalities, exponential and logarithmic functions, and the difference quotient, a brief intuitive approach to limits. Trigonometry topics include those listed in

Algebra 2/Trigonometry as well as proving trig identities and graphs of trig functions. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving with applications from antiquity as well as today. Students are required to purchase a graphing calculator prior to enrolling in this course. Using this calculator to analyze data and graphs and as a problem solving tool is a significant part of the course.

Advanced Algebra with Financial Applications

Prerequisite: Algebra 2/Trigonometry.

This course incorporates topics from Algebra, PreCalculus, Probability and Statistics, and Calculus to solve financial problems that occur in everyday life. Real world problems in investing, credit, banking, auto insurance, mortgages, employment, income taxes, budgeting, and planning for retirement are solved by applying the relevant mathematics. This course includes extensive use of a graphing calculator, research, spreadsheets, partner/small group assignments, and projects.

AP Statistics

Prerequisites: Algebra 2/Trigonometry with a grade of “B” or better, or departmental approval.

This course is similar to an introductory, non-calculus-based, college-level statistics course. Students develop strategies for collecting, organizing, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. They will then design, administer, and tabulate results from surveys and experiments. Probability and simulations aid students in constructing models for chance behavior. Sampling distributions provide the logical structure for confidence intervals and hypothesis tests. Students use a TI-nspire graphing calculator, and Web-based applets to investigate statistical concepts. To develop effective statistical communication skills, students are required to prepare frequent written and oral analyses of real data.

Students who successfully complete this course will be prepared to take the Advanced Placement Statistics Examination in May. Non-seniors will also have a final research project to complete after the AP exam in May.