Academics
Mathematics Course Descriptions
Algebra I
Grade: 9
Credit: 1.00
Full Year
This course applies the principles of the real number system to operations with variables as well as constants. Topics covered include: addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of variables and rational expressions; the solution of linear and quadratic equations and inequalities; the use of ratio and proportion; the solution of systems of equations; the graphing of systems of linear equations and of linear inequalities; operations with radical expressions; the proper set-up and solution of word problems. The student should be able to explain not only what he does but also why he does it in the particular way he chooses.
Accelerated Algebra I
Grade: 9
Credit: 1.00
Full Year (Receives .5 Honor Value Points)
This accelerated course is a comprehensive study of the fundamental principles of algebra. Algebraic symbolism, simplifying expressions, solutions to elementary equations, and the graphic representations associated with variables are among the course topics. This course emphasizes the algebraic processes applied to word problems.
Prerequisite: Placement by the department
Algebra II
Grade: 11
Credit: 1.00
Full Year
This course reviews and expands upon the topics covered in Algebra I. Additionally, quadratics, conics, logarithms, and functions are examined.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I and placement by the department
Honors Algebra II
Grade: 9, 10, 11
Credit: 1.00
Full Year (Receives Honor Value Points)
This is an accelerated course for highly gifted mathematics students. In this course the emphases are on: field axioms of Real numbers, absolute value equations and inequalities, polynomials and factoring, linear and quadratic functions as mathematical models, systems of linear equations and inequalities in two or more variables, matrices, complex numbers, exponential and logarithmic functions, rational and irrational algebraic functions, higher degree polynomial functions, synthetic substitution, the Factor Theorem and the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra.
Prerequisites: Placement by Mathematics Department
Geometry
Grade: 10
Credit: 1.00
Full Year
In this course the student learns to organize his thinking so that he will reason logically and express his ideas clearly and precisely. This course is a development of the concepts of Euclidean Geometry of two and three dimensions. Emphasis is placed on the basic properties and relationships of points, lines, planes, angles, triangles, circles and polygons with numerical problems that integrate algebra and geometry.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I
Honors Geometry & Trigonometry
Grade: 10
Credit: 1.00
Full Year (Receives Honor Value Points)
This is an accelerated course for highly gifted mathematics students. Topics taught enable students to develop logical thinking through the understanding and practice of two column proofs. This course is a development of the concepts of Euclidean Geometry of two and three dimensions. Emphasis is placed on the basic properties and relationships of points, lines, planes, angles, triangles, circles and polygons with numerical problems that integrate algebra and geometry. It is the expectation that students work the more challenging of the problems in the text. In addition, a standard course in trigonometry and Analytic Geometry is presented.
Prerequisites: Placement by department
Trigonometry
Grade: 11, 12
Credit: 0.50
One semester
The topics covered in the course are: matrices, determinants, sequences, series, trigonometric applications to practical situations such as using the six basic trigonometric ratios to solve triangle problems, the use of the Pythagorean, quotient, reciprocal, cofunction, even & odd, sum & difference, double & half angle, identities to prove identities, solving trigonometric equations, as well as logarithms, vectors and computation of powers and complex numbers with the application of DeMoivre's Theorem.
Prerequisites: No grade lower than a "C" in any previous mathematics course and/or departmental approval
Pre-Calculus
Grade: 11, 12
Credit: 1.00
Full Year
The Pre-Calculus course involves the study of analytic geometry as it relates to polynomial, rational, irrational, exponential, and trigonometric functions. In studying trigonometric functions, graphs, identities, solving equations and applications are emphasized. The study of conics and their applications are also discussed. Additional topics may include mathematical induction, sequences, series, the binomial theorem and statistics.
Prerequisite: The completion of or concurrent enrollment in Geometry and no grade lower than a "C" in any previous mathematics course and/or departmental approval
Honors Elementary Functions
Grade: 11, 12
Credit: 0.50
First semester (Receives Honor Value Points)
This course proceeds at a more rapid pace than the regular Pre-Calculus course. The course concentrates heavily on functional theory. Students are introduced to a rigorous study of polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions and their applications. This course is a precursor to Honors Calculus A.
Prerequisites: The completion of or concurrent enrollment in Geometry and no grade lower than a "B" in any previous mathematics course and/or departmental approval
Honors Calculus A
(St. Mary's University PACC Program course when taken in conjunction with Honors Elementary Functions)
Grade: 11, 12
Credit: 0.50
First semester (Receives Honor Value Points)
This course is to be taken sequentially after Honors Elementary Functions. In this course introductory calculus topics such as limits and differential calculus are explored. Exposure to such topics is intended to directly prepare students for the Advanced Placement Calculus course.
Prerequisites: The completion of or concurrent enrollment in Geometry and no grade lower than a "B" in any previous mathematics course and/or departmental approval
AP Calculus BC
(St. Mary's University PACC Program Course)
Grade: 12
Credit: 1.00
Full Year (Receives Honor Value Points)
The study of calculus is no longer limited to those preparing for careers in mathematics and the sciences. The need and demand for students in business and the social sciences who can design procedures, and who can predict and relate the principles of higher mathematics are increasing dramatically. The content of this course includes the fundamentals of integral calculus. Additionally, topics from differential equations and series will be examined. The final exam in this course will be the Advanced Placement Calculus exam.
Prerequisites: No grade lower than a "B" in any previous mathematics course and/or departmental approval
Statistics
Grade: 11, 12
Credit: 0.50
One semester
In this course, students will learn statistical applications that range from sociology and politics to economics. They will also learn how computers are used to access, collect, analyze, organize, interpret and communicate knowledge.
Prerequisites: No grade lower than a "C" in any previous mathematics course and/or departmental approval
AP Statistics
Grade: 11, 12
Credit: 1.00
One semester (Receives Honor Value Points)
The purpose of this AP course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: exploring data via observations of patterns and departures from them, elements of planning a study such as what and how to measure, anticipating patterns by producing models using probability theory and simulations, and statistical inferences to confirm models.
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of "B" in Honors Algebra II or "A" in Algebra II and/or departmental approval
Note: Three more basic courses in mathematics are also offered. Algebra I 512, Geometry 521 and Algebra II 531 are designed for students who may not be pursuing mathematics in college. These courses stress the fundamentals of Algebra and Geometry but proceed at a slightly slower pace. Students are exposed to the same topics as in the regular mathematics curriculum but the level of assessment is adjusted. Therefore, beginning in 2004 any students enrolled in Algebra I 512, continuing on to Geometry 521, and Algebra II 531 will receive lower quality value points for each of these lower level courses they take. Students will be placed into these courses at the discretion of the department based upon performance in previous math courses, and anticipated mathematical ability.