MATHEMATICS COURSES

The Mathematics Department seeks to incorporate some of the best mathematical pedagogy from around the world. Also, taking a page from some of Asia’s most successful systems, students build new knowledge from previously learned skills and become comfortable with multi-step problems. Our mission is to expand each student's quantitative reasoning skills in order to ensure success in their higher mathematical endeavors and in their post-secondary education. Students learn to face mathematical problems with confidence while becoming equipped with the necessary skills and strategies to be successful. Students are taught how to solve problems both with and without technology. Math courses are yearlong and, except for courses such as Statistics, are designed to be sequential. Due to the diverse backgrounds of entering students, all new students are placed in appropriate courses by the department chair. Enrollment in Honors, Advanced Placement and post-Advanced Placement courses requires departmental permission. Typical course progression options are listed below. Please see complete descriptions for more information. Sample course progression:

Algebra 1 Honors Algebra 1 Geometry Honors Geometry Algebra 2 Honors Algebra 2 Geometry Honors Geometry Algebra 2 Honors Algebra 2 Precalculus Honors Precalculus Algebra 2 Honors Algebra 2 College Preparatory Math Precalculus Honors Precalculus Calculus AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC College Preparatory Math Precalculus/Honors Precalculus Statistics & Probability AP Statistics Calculus AP Calculus AB AP Calculus BC Multivariable & Vector Calculus Linear Algebra

ALGEBRA I

Level: Introductory Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra Overview: Topics in this course include linear equations and inequalities, graphing linear equations and inequalities, exponents, factoring, absolute value expressions and functions, and an introduction to quadratic equations. Students will develop foundational algebra skills and prepare for Geometry.

HONORS ALGEBRA I

Level: Accelerated Introductory Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra and departmental permission Overview: Topics studied in-depth in this accelerated course include: linear equations and inequalities; graphing linear equations and inequalities; exponents; factoring; and absolute value expressions and functions. In addition, students are introduced to quadratic equations and right-angle trigonometry. Students will develop foundational algebra skills and prepare for Geometry.

GEOMETRY

Level: Introductory Prerequisite: Algebra I Overview: This course is an introduction to: the basic elements of Euclidean geometry; measurement, proof development, congruency and similarity in two- and threedimensional settings; and area, volume and other applications of geometry. Students will develop geometric reasoning skills, reinforce algebra skills and prepare for Algebra II. ALGEBRA II

Level: Intermediate Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry Overview: This course focuses on manipulation of algebraic quantities and solving equations and inequalities. Students will gain skills in the topic areas of linear, quadratic, higherdegree polynomial, and exponential functions. Students will be introduced to logarithms. ALGEBRA II Essentials

Level: Intermediate Prerequisite: Algebra 1, Geometry. Department recommendation Overview: This course focuses on building basic skills with the essential topics in Algebra II. Students will study linear and quadratic equations in depth with a focus on applications. There will also be a thorough introduction to higher-degree polynomials and exponential equations along with a brief introduction to logarithms.

HONORS GEOMETRY

Level: Accelerated Introductory Prerequisite: Algebra I and departmental permission Overview: Students in this accelerated program are introduced to the basic elements of Euclidean geometry; measurement, proof development, congruency and similarity in two- and three-dimensional settings; and area, volume and other applications of geometry. Students will develop geometric reasoning skills, reinforce algebra skills and prepare for Algebra II.

Level: Accelerated Intermediate Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry and departmental permission Overview: In this course, students will experience an in-depth study of the manipulation of algebraic quantities and solving equations and inequalities. Students study linear, quadratic, higher-degree polynomial, exponential, rational, and logarithmic functions. There is a thorough introduction to trigonometry including right-angle trigonometry, basic identities and some basic graphs.

COLLEGE PREPARATORY MATH

Level: Intermediate Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry, teacher recommendation Overview: This course serves to reinforce algebra skills and prepare students for the next level through in-depth coverage of linear and quadratic equations, exponential and radical number concepts and trigonometric topics. Students gain confidence and improved readiness for college math. This course is not approved for NCAA credit.

PRECALCULUS

Level: Advanced Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry Overview: Emphasis in this course is on functions – linear, piece-wise, quadratic, higher-degree, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric. Students will participate in an in-depth study of trigonometric identities.

HONORS PRECALCULUS

Level: Accelerated advanced Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and departmental permission Overview: The emphasis in this accelerated course is on functions – linear, piece-wise, quadratic, higher-degree, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric. In addition, students will participate in an in-depth study of trigonometric identities, polar equations, conic sections and limits.

STATISTICS & PROBABILITY

Level: Intermediate, Grade 12 and postgraduate Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry Overview: Students will embark on the study of group data applied to a variety of real-world problems. Graphic, numeric and algebraic analysis (with and without technology), and group projects will allow students to examine statistical and probability concepts from a broad perspective. 12

Level: Advanced Placement. The AP exam in May is mandatory. Exam fee is charged. Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, recommendation Overview: Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: exploring data – describing patterns and departures from patterns; sampling and experimentation – planning and conducting a study; anticipating patterns – exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation; and statistical inference – estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses. In addition to preparing students for the AP Statistics exam, this course prepares them to use their statistical knowledge to determine the validity of surveys and reports, analyze scientific data and design experiments in future college-level work. CALCULUS: Calculus with Applications

Level: Advanced, Grade 11 or above Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Precalculus and departmental permission Overview: This course is the study of differentiation and integration and how both functions relate to the business world. Students use graphic, numeric and algebraic analysis with and without technology to develop foundational calculus skills with business applications. AP CALCULUS AB: Calculus I

Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 11 or above. The AP exam in May is mandatory. Exam fee is charged. Prerequisite: Precalculus and departmental permission Overview: This college-level course is intended for students who wish to develop a strong base understanding of the concepts of calculus. Topics include limits, calculating derivatives and integrals (polynomial, rational, logarithmic, trigonometric, and inverse trigonometric functions), maxima and minima, slope fields, exponential growth and volumes of solids. Students will perform graphic, numeric and algebraic analysis (with and without technology) and prepare for the AP Calculus AB exam.

CALCULUS BC Plus: Calculus II

Level: Advanced Placement, Grade 12. The AP exam in May is mandatory. Exam fee is charged. Prerequisite: AP Calculus AB and department permission Overview: This college-level course builds on topics learned in Calculus I. This course goes beyond the curriculum for AP Calculus BC in depth and breadth. Topics include integration by parts, integration by trigonometric substitutions, Euler's Method, differential equations, logistics growth, sequence, series, polynomial approximations using series, Maclaurin and Taylor Series, and parametric, polar and vector functions. Students will perform graphic, numeric and algebraic analysis with and without technology and prepare for the AP Calculus BC exam.