Courses offered in mathematics provide students opportunities to understand and use the language of mathematics; to develop and demonstrate a logical approach to problem solving; and to become increasingly more independent in their learning. Students use tools of technology to solve problems, analyze data, and promote better understanding of graphical displays.
Algebra 1
Algebra 1 is the foundation for all subsequent mathematics courses. Concepts studied include extensive practice solving equations and inequalities, simplifying and factoring polynomials, simplifying rational expressions, and graphing linear and quadratic functions.
Geometry
(Prerequisite: Algebra 1)
Students learn the concepts of geometry – angles, perpendicular and parallel lines, polygons, triangles, quadrilaterals, circles, solids, and coordinate geometry – through hands-on activities, small-group work, and problems related to real-life applications.
Honors Geometry
(Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and recommendation of the department)
Students learn inductive reasoning and concepts of geometry by identifying patterns and relationships that can be generalized into the theorems of geometry. Much of the work is done in small groups during class time with the teacher acting as mentor rather than lecturer. The content of the course includes line and angle properties; constructions with compass and straightedge as well as with patty paper; triangle and quadrilateral properties; characteristics of all polygons and circles; surface area and volume of solids; basic triangle trigonometry; and proofs using the geometric relationships discovered.
Algebra 2
(Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and Geometry)
Students extend the skills developed in Algebra 1. Taken after geometry, Algebra 2 builds a broader base of concepts with a deeper understanding of algebraic ideas. Topics include linear, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic equations and functions, systems of equations and inequalities, matrices, polynomial and rational expressions and equations, and sequences and series.
Honors Algebra 2
(Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and geometry and recommendation of the department)
Students study the concepts of Algebra 1 in greater depth. Topics include linear, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic functions; systems of equations and inequalities; matrices; polynomial and rational expressions; and sequences and series. Students are introduced to the graphing calculator and use it extensively in conjunction with pencil and paper methods.
Precalculus
(Prerequisite: Algebra 2)
During first semester, students study and graph polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Second semester is dedicated to the study of trigonometry through use of the unit circle and right triangles. Students use trigonometric identities to solve equations and graph the six trig functions and their transformations.
Honors Precalculus
(Prerequisites: Honors Algebra 2 and/or recommendation of the department)
During first semester, students study linear and non-linear functions through data analysis; nine basic functions, their graphs, and transformations of the graphs; and inverse functions and the composition and decompostition of functions. Trigonometry and analytic trigonometry comprise the bulk study of second semester, with algebraic techniques reviewed and extended. The final unit on limits prepares students for the formal study of calculus.
Advanced Topics in Precalculus
(Prerequisite: Precalculus)
This one-semester course is offered for students who have successfully completed the yearlong course in Precalculus but are not ready for calculus. The course includes an intense review of trigonometry. New topics covered may include sequences and series, advanced techniques involving matrices and linear systems, probability, analytic geometry, and an introduction to limits.
AP Calculus AB
(Prerequisites: Honors Precalculus and recommendation of the department)
An Advanced Placement (AP) course in calculus consists of work comparable to calculus courses in colleges and universities. Four broad topics are developed in AP Calculus courses: functions, graphs and limits; derivatives; and integrals. The course develops concepts numerically, graphically, verbally, and analytically. Graphing calculators are used regularly. It is expected that AP students take the national examination in May and that they will seek college credit, college placement, or both from institutions of higher learning.
AP Calculus BC
(Prerequisite: Honors Precalculus and recommendation of the department)
AP Calculus BC covers all the topics in AP Calculus AB. Additionally, students study arc length, logistic equations, partial fractions, improper integrals, infinite series, Euler’s Method, L’Hospital’s Rule, Taylor and McLaurin Series, polar coordinates, vectors-valued functions, and parametric equations. Students use a graphing calculator as an integral part of the course, learning to link the algebraic, numeric, and geometric representations of functions. The AP exam is a requirement of the course.
Statistics
(Prerequisite: Precalculus or recommendation of the department)
The course content is divided into the four areas of data exploration, probability, simulation procedures, and the examination of surveys and information from samples. Real data is used for all statistics lessons. Students select appropriate graphs and plots for a given set of data; examine graphs and plots in order to describe the data, detect patterns in the facts, and make and produce clear, written communication of findings and conclusions.
Advanced Placement Statistics
(Prerequisite: Precalculus and recommendation of the department)
AP Statistics is a course offered to Upper School students for the completion of studies equivalent to a one-semester, non-calculus based college course in statistics. Students are introduced to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from real data. The four main areas of study are exploring data, planning a study, probability as it relates to distributions of data, and inferential reasoning. Extensive use of graphing calculators and computer software are necessary. The course culminates with the AP Statistics examination in May.