Mathematics

Algebra I

The first year of Algebra includes the study of properties and operations of the real number system, evaluation of rational algebraic expressions, solutions, and graphs of first-degree equations and inequalities, operations with the factoring of polynomials, and solution of quadratic equations and inequalities. Further topics include variables, field properties, algebraic fractions, ratio and proportion, linear equations, direct and inverse variation, systems of equations in two variables, and irrational numbers. Students must have completed Pre-Algebra before taking this course.

Algebra II Honors

The second year of algebra covers field properties and theorems, set theory, operations with rational and irrational expressions, factoring of rational expressions, in-depth study of linear equations and inequalities, constant, linear and quadratic equations, properties of higher degree functions, operations with rational and irrational exponents, complex numbers, logarithms, and an introduction to trigonometry. Students study the unifying theme of functions with graphing calculators and computers. Students must have completed Algebra I/Algebra I Honors before taking this course. Note: Students with departmental approval may take Geometry and Algebra II during the same school year. Prerequisite for Honors: B- or higher in Geometry Honors.

Geometry Honors

Geometry includes the study of properties of plane and solid figures, deductive methods of reasoning and use of logic, and the application of algebraic techniques in the solution of geometric problems. Topics include angles, congruent triangles, lines in the plane, parallel lines and related figures, lines and planes in space, polygons, similar polygons, the Pythagorean Theorem, circles, area, surface area, volume, coordinate geometry, and locus. Students must have completed Algebra I before taking this course. Prerequisite for Honors: B- or higher in Algebra I Honors.

Precalculus combines the study of trigonometry, elementary functions, analytic geometry, and math analysis topics as preparation for Calculus. Topics include complex numbers, polynomial, logarithmic, exponential, rational, right trigonometric and circular functions and their relations, inverses, and graphs, trigonometric identities and equations, solutions of right and oblique triangles, vectors, polar coordinates, conic sections, mathematical induction, matrix algebra, sequences and series, limits and continuity, binomial theorem, permutations and combinations, and probability. Students study functions extensively with graphing calculators. Prerequisite for Honors: B- or higher in Algebra II Honors.

Analysis of Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry is a yearlong course for students who have completed Algebra II, but are not academically ready for Precalculus. The course of study begins with introduction to statistics, including descriptive data presentation, basic survey techniques and experimental design, and probability. Review of Algebra II concepts are integrated into the curriculum. Topics of major focus include algebraic expressions, functions, systems of equations, conics, and trigonometry. These topics are intended to support a student’s efforts to qualify for Precalculus the following year.

Students study both inferential and descriptive statistics and learn the procedures and techniques of elementary probability theory. Statistics topics include: measures of central tendency, measures of variation, the normal distribution, hypothesis testing, estimation, sampling, and chi-square distribution. Practical applications and relevance to other academic areas are stressed.

The AP Statistics course introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. There are four themes evident in the content, skills, and assessment in the AP Statistics course: exploring data, sampling and experimentation, probability and simulation, and statistical inference. Students use technology, investigations, problem solving, and writing as they build conceptual understanding. The AP Statistics course is equivalent to a one-semester, introductory, non-calculus-based college course in statistics. Prerequisite: Students must be enrolled in or have taken Precalculus Honors or AP Calculus to take AP Statistics.

Calculus is designed for students who are ready for Calculus but do not want the rigorous environment of the AP curriculum. In this course, differential and integral calculus are explored through the interpretation of graphs as well as analytic techniques. Students are expected to investigate and solve problems using algebraic, numerical, graphical, verbal, and written methods. The course focuses not only on theoretical problems but also on life applications. Note: Students may take this course only upon successful completion of Precalculus and recommendation by the Mathematics Department.

This course provides students with an understanding of the concepts of calculus and experience with its methods and applications. The course includes the study of elementary functions, properties of functions and their graphs, limits and continuity, differential calculus, and integral calculus. The BC course also includes the study of vector functions, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and sequences and series. Students are expected to investigate and solve problems using algebraic, numerical, graphical, verbal, and written methods. Note: Students may take this course only upon invitation from the Mathematics Department and successful completion of Precalculus (AB) or Precalculus Honors (AB or BC).

Advanced Topics in Mathematics is a post-AP math course for students who have successfully completed AP Calculus BC. First semester topics include, but are not limited to: differentiation applications, advanced integration techniques, rotating volumes, differential equations, infinite series, and vector functions. In addition, students are introduced to proof techniques and college level mathematics courses that they may encounter after Calculus. Advanced Topics is a course for students who have successfully completed the requirements of the AP Calculus BC course and have departmental approval.