PreCalculus: Course Overview

Precalculus is aptly named, in that it specifically prepares students for calculus-based coursework. The required content of this course does just that, while there are additional optional topics that, when able, can deepen students’ mathematical knowledge and prepare them for more advanced topics. The year starts with both a review and extension of functions, including linear, quadratic, and exponential in Algebra I, and polynomial, rational, and logarithmic functions from Algebra II. This allows for students to engage in familiar content while going deeper. This is followed by study of systems of equations and inequalities from Algebra I along with (+) standards for matrices, bringing the two together intentionally. The course then moves to trigonometry, extending from right triangle trigonometry from Geometry and Algebra II into Laws of Sin and Cosine and other topics. The final required unit deals with analytic geometry, focusing primarily on conic sections with optional topics of parametric equations, polar coordinates, and others. The course then allows for a study of limits, a topic that can be addressed in AP Calculus but is beneficial to address in precalculus when time permits. Last, students are able to explore series and sequences along with probability, followed by statistics. When time permits, the learning can strengthen students’ mathematical preparation for more advanced topics.