Miscellaneous Information:
Honors level courses are offered in Geometry, Algebra II, Math Analysis, and Calculus. AP Calculus also carries additional GPA weight. Students are recommended for these courses based on past classroom performance, test scores, and teacher recommendation. If a student was not recommended for an honors level course, the math department strongly encourages you to speak with your son/daughter's present math teacher and guidance counselor before signing a waiver. Please note that many students who are not recommended for this level course do not perform successfully and, due to class sizes, may not be able to be placed in the appropriate level once the school year has begun.
If a student wishes to "double up" and take Geometry and Algebra II concurrently, it is important to discuss this with his/her current math teacher. Two math courses taken simultaneously is not an easy task for a student. For additional information, please refer to the curriculum guide or contact the guidance department.
Course Descriptions:
Algebra I - This course is the foundation for all courses in advanced mathematical studies and is designed for students who have a solid foundation in basic arithmetic and knowledge of the real number system. Concepts are taught in a more abstract manner.
Geometry - A year-long course where students learn and apply the theorems and postulates of plane geometry.
Algebra II - A year-long course which continues and refines Advanced Algebra I. Functions and graphing are stressed as well as applications.
Precalculus - This is a year-long precalculus course. Trigonometry receives a major emphasis. Prerequisite: Algebra II, passing with at least a “B-”. Course registration is based on a number of factors, such as final grade average, standardized test scores, teacher recommendation, etc.
Concepts of Mathematics - This is a senior-level semester course which continues the study of topics in higher level mathematics, and focuses on placement examination preparation, particularly the Accuplacer.
Math for Careers - This senior-level semester course is designed to equip students with the essential mathematical skills and knowledge needed for success in various skilled trades and careers. This course focuses on the practical application of mathematical concepts in various career fields.
Probability and Statistics - This is a semester course dealing with such topics as samplings, permutations, combinations, and data analysis. Prerequisite: Algebra II, passing with at least a “C”. Course registration is based on a number of factors, such as final grade average, standardized test scores, teacher recommendation, etc.
Discrete Math - This course uses the concepts taught in its prerequisite courses and extends and applies them to many different fields, including politics, manufacturing and distribution, economics, and technology. Students will explore the binary number system and different voting systems. This course is modeled after and prepares students for college level mathematics courses often found in non-STEM majors, with names such as Contemporary Mathematics or Quantitative Reasoning. This course can be taken with another semester mathematics course as a substitute for a full-year mathematics course. Prerequisite: Algebra II, passing with at least a “C”. Course registration is based on a number of factors, such as final grade average, standardized test scores, teacher recommendation, etc.
Calculus - In this year-long course differential and integral calculus are studied. The text is a book used by many area colleges and universities. Prerequisite: Mathematical Analysis-Honors, passing with at least a “C” or Math Analysis, passing with at least a “B”. Course registration is based on a number of factors, such as final grade average, standardized test scores, teacher recommendation, etc.
AP Calculus - This year-long course intensely prepares the students for the examination given in May of each year. (prerequisite is Honors Math Analysis). Students must own a TI-83/84 Plus graphing calculator. If this poses a problem for any student, he/she should see the department chairperson, Mr. Seeley, as soon as possible so accommodations may be made.
AP Statistics - This year-long course intensely prepares the students for the examination given in May of each year. (prerequisite is Algebra 2). Students must own a TI-83/84 Plus graphing calculator. If this poses a problem for any student, he/she should see the department chairperson, Mr. Seeley, as soon as possible so accommodations may be made.