The Mathematics Department believes that all students have the potential to achieve at high levels in the study of mathematics and is committed to providing every student a high quality mathematics education. To that end, content and instruction are aligned with the rigorous Connecticut Core Standards and the Standards for Mathematical Practice. The Standards for Mathematical Practice describe characteristics and traits that mathematics educators at all levels should seek to develop in their students.
Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them
Reason abstractly and quantitatively
Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others
Model with mathematics
Use appropriate tools strategically
Attend to precision
Look for and make use of structure
Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning
Placement in the Mathematics Sequence
Honors, AP Level, and College-Level Articulated Courses (UCONN, NVCC), which cover content to a greater depth and at a faster pace, will prepare students for admission requirements of colleges and universities. Honors math courses differ from the core curriculum in the number of topics assessed, the pace of the course, and the complexity or depth to which topics are expected to be learned.
Course Sequence
Algebra I
STEM
Course Code: 301
Credits: 1.0
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA, SS
Algebra I expands upon the properties of equality, relationships between variables, and algebraic reasoning developed in middle grades to create the foundation for all future mathematics courses. Topics include the study of patterns, an introduction to functions, modeling with and solving equations and inequalities, graphing and modeling linear functions in various forms, systems of equations, exploring exponential functions, and polynomials. In addition, students engage in a beginning study of bivariate data analysis including correlation and lines of best fit. Common Core State Standards are taught and reinforced as the student learns how to apply these concepts in real-life situations.
Algebra I Honors
STEM
Course Code: 300
Credits: 1.0
Weight: Honors
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
The Honors level covers the same core skills as those in Algebra I but at a faster pace and with increased depth. In addition, students will extend their work with functions and equations to include quadratics and piecewise functions. Additional topics such as introductory trigonometry and geometric applications will be explored as time allows.
Algebra I ATOMS/SOAR
STEM
Course Code: 300K
Credits: 1.0
Weight: Honors
Schools: K, W
The ATOMS/SOAR level covers the same core skills as those in Algebra I but at a faster pace and with increased depth. In addition, students will extend their work with functions and equations to include quadratics and piecewise functions. Additional topics such as introductory trigonometry and geometric applications will be explored as time allows. ATOMS/SOAR classes work at a more rigorous pace and entail more independent work.
Geometry
STEM
Course Code: 351
Credits: 1.0
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA, SS
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I.
Based on the real-life applications of geometry, a student will investigate concepts in geometry such as congruence and similarity and apply that knowledge when conducting proofs and constructions. Coordinate geometry is also used, which integrates Algebra skills from the prior years. Critical thinking and problem-solving is emphasized as well as continued development of the skills needed to effectively communicate mathematical ideas.
Geometry Honors
STEM
Course Code: 350
Credits: 1.0
Weight: Honors
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I Honors with a B-average or higher.
This is an accelerated course that focuses on an in-depth understanding of the relationships of congruence and similarity, the structures used to analyze them and the language used to communicate these ideas. Constructing proofs, use of coordinate geometry and the study of conic sections are included. This course requires a greater degree of independence and competence in critical thinking and communicating mathematically.
Geometry ATOMS/SOAR
STEM
Course Code: 350K
Credits: 1.0
Weight: ATOMS/SOAR
Schools: K
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I.
This is an accelerated course that focuses on an in-depth understanding of the relationships of congruence and similarity, the structures used to analyze them and the language used to communicate these ideas. Constructing proofs, use of coordinate geometry and the study of conic sections are included. This course requires a greater degree of independence and competence in critical thinking and communicating mathematically. ATOMS/SOAR classes work at a more rigorous pace and entail more independent work.
Algebra II
STEM
Course Code: 321
Credits: 1.0
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA, SS
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Geometry.
Algebra II students build on the skills acquired in Algebra I and Geometry, revisiting and expanding on their understanding of linear, absolute value, and exponential functions. In addition, quadratic, radical, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions are introduced. Students focus on exploring the connections between graphical representations and equations while they study transformations of various functions and apply their understanding of domain and range to explore asymptotes. Students also build on their statistical foundation by looking at random sampling.
Algebra II Honors
STEM
Course Code: 320
Credits: 1.0
Weight: Honors
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Geometry Honors with a B-average or higher.
The Honors level covers the same core skills as those in Algebra II but at a faster pace and with increased depth. In addition, students will extend their understanding of the number system to include complex numbers and explore how inequalities interact with systems and various functions including rational functions. Additional topics such as normal distribution and unit circles will be explored as time allows.
Algebra II ATOMS/SOAR
STEM
Course Code: 320K
Credits: 1.0
Weight: ATOMS/SOAR
Schools: K
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Geometry.
The Honors level covers the same core skills as those in Algebra II but at a faster pace and with increased depth. In addition, students will extend their understanding of the number system to include complex numbers and explore how inequalities interact with systems and various functions including rational functions. Additional topics such as normal distribution and unit circles will be explored as time allows. ATOMS/SOAR classes work at a more rigorous pace and entail more independent work.
Precalculus
STEM
Course Code: 371
Credits: 1.0
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II with a B-average or higher.
This course is designed to provide a strong foundation of pre-calculus concepts, techniques, and applications to prepare students for more advanced work. It places appropriate emphasis on discrete mathematics and data analysis as the mathematical framework for many important contemporary applications. Units covered include polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and inverse functions, graphs, and applications, trigonometry, and discrete mathematics. Extensive use of the graphing calculator will assist the student in a balanced approach to solving problems.
Precalculus Honors
STEM
Course Code: 370
Credits: 1.0
Weight: Honors
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II Honors with a B-average or higher.
This course provides algebraic and graphical explorations of polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and inverse functions with real life applications in preparation for Calculus. In addition, trigonometric functions are studied as circular functions with applications to triangle problems. Topics include trigonometric identities, inverse trigonometric functions and oblique triangle trigonometry. Limits and sequences and series will be introduced if time permits. Extensive use of the graphing calculator will assist the student in a balanced approach to solving problems. (Includes ECH/ATOMS/SOAR Programs.)
Precalculus ATOMS/SOAR
STEM
Course Code: 370K
Credits: 1.0
Weight: ATOMS/SOAR
Schools: K
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II.
This course provides algebraic and graphical explorations of polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and inverse functions with real life applications in preparation for Calculus. In addition, trigonometric functions are studied as circular functions with applications to triangle problems. Topics include trigonometric identities, inverse trigonometric functions and oblique triangle trigonometry. Limits and sequences and series will be introduced if time permits. Extensive use of the graphing calculator will assist the student in a balanced approach to solving problems. ATOMS/SOAR classes work at a more rigorous pace and entail more independent work.
Precalculus: Advanced Placement
STEM
Course Code: 370W
Credits: 1.0
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: WCA, W
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II with an A-average or higher.
AP Pre-Calculus provides a rigorous foundation for calculus through an in-depth exploration of advanced mathematical concepts. Students will enhance their understanding of polynomial and rational functions by modeling real-world scenarios and analyzing various rates of change. The course delves into the relationship between exponential and logarithmic functions, offering insights into their inverses and applications. Through transformations of trigonometric functions, students will model and explore periodic phenomena, gaining a deeper grasp of these essential concepts. Additionally, the course expands the function concept by introducing and investigating a variety of new function types, preparing students for the challenges of calculus and beyond.
Calculus Honors
STEM
Course Code: 380K
Credits: 1.0
Weight: Honors
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Precalculus with a B-average or higher.
This course serves to introduce students to the study of calculus. Students are exposed to several of the topics from the AP course including a study of functions, analysis of graphs, limits, and continuity; derivatives at a point and of a function and applications and techniques of derivatives; and interpretations and properties of definite integrals, as well as applications of integrals; All topics are covered algebraically, geometrically, and analytically.
Calculus AB: Advanced Placement
STEM
Course Code: 380A
Credits: 1.0
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: W
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Precalculus Honors/AP with a B-average or higher .
This course includes the in depth study of functions, analysis of graphs, limits, continuity; derivatives at a point and of a function, applications and techniques of derivatives including those of trig functions, and second derivatives; interpretations and properties of definite integrals, as well as applications of integrals; and related rates and optimization; All topics are covered algebraically, geometrically, and analytically. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in May.
Calculus BC: Advanced Placement
STEM
Course Code: 380A
Credits: 1.0
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: W
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Calculus AB AP.
This course continues the study of Calculus begun in AP Calculus AB to the study of parametric, polar and vector functions; applications of integrals; polynomial approximations and series including the concepts of series, divergence versus convergence and types of series, series of constants, and Taylor/Maclaurin series. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in May.
Calculus I: UCONN
STEM
Course Code: 380U
Credits: 1.0 (1/2 year course)
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: K, WAMS, WCA (Fall Only)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of one year of Precalculus is required. A student must pass Calculus I with a grade of a "C" or higher to continue on to Calculus II. To receive credit for the Calculus I - Calculus II sequence a student must pass Calculus I in the Fall with a C or higher and continue to Calculus II in the following Spring. The sequence must be completed in one academic year.
Limits, continuity, differentiation, antidifferentiation, definite integral, with applications to the physical sciences and engineering sciences. Suitable for students with some prior calculus experience. Substitutes for MATH 1151 as a requirement.. Please note: This is a half year course; however, a student who is successful can earn a full high school credit.
Calculus II: UCONN
STEM
Course Code: 384U
Credits: 1.0 (1/2 year course)
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: K, WAMS, WCA (Spring Only)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of one year of Precalculus is required. A student must pass Calculus I with a grade of a "C" or higher to continue on to Calculus II. To receive credit for the Calculus I - Calculus II sequence a student must pass Calculus I in the Fall with a C or higher and continue to Calculus II in the following Spring. The sequence must be completed in one academic year.
Transcendental functions, formal integration, polar coordinates, infinite sequences and series, vector algebra and geometry, with applications to the physical sciences and engineering. Please note: This is a half year course; however, a student who is successful can earn a full high school credit.
Statistics 1
STEM
Course Code: 394
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 12
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I and Geometry.
This course introduces students to foundational concepts in statistics, focusing on understanding and interpreting data. Students will explore various methods of organizing and displaying data, including dot plots, histograms, and scatter plots. They will learn to measure data, compare data, and use statistics to analyze data distributions. This course will also utilize two-way and frequency tables to analyze relationships within data. Students will demonstrate their understanding of these concepts through projects and hands-on activities.
Statistics 2
STEM
Course Code: 494B
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 12
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Statistics 1.
This course builds upon foundational statistical concepts, diving deeper into probability and its applications. Students will explore probability events to calculate outcomes and assess likelihoods. Key concepts will additionally include work on statistical questions, sampling methods, analysis of data distributions, and hypothesis testing. By the end of the course, students will have advanced skills in statistical reasoning and decision-making.
Statistics: Advanced Placement
STEM
Course Code: 392A
Credits: 1.0
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: WAMS
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II with a B-average or higher.
This year-long course is equivalent to a one-semester college course in statistics. Students will be introduced to the major concepts for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Topics also include sampling and experimentation. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in May.
Elementary Concepts of Statistics: UCONN ECE
STEM
Course Code: 394U
Credits: 1.0 (1/2 year course)
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: K
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II; a Math score of 530 or higher on the SATs (recommended).
This semester-long college-level course for advanced learners takes a critical look at data: how can we organize, analyze and interpret data, how can we use data to make decisions, what role does randomness play in our decision making? Standard and nonparametric approaches to statistical analysis; exploratory data analysis, elementary probability, sampling distributions, estimation and hypothesis testing, one- and two-sample procedures, regression and correlation. Learning to do statistical analysis on a personal computer is an integral part of the course. Though this course is only a half year, students earn 4 UCONN credits and therefore will earn a full high school credit for successful completion of the course.
Elementary Concepts of Statistics: UCONN ECE / AP Statistics
STEM
Course Code: 394A
Credits: 1.0
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: C
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II.
This year-long college-level course for advanced learners takes a critical look at data: how can we organize, analyze and interpret data, how can we use data to make decisions, what role does randomness play in our decision making? Standard and nonparametric approaches to statistical analysis; exploratory data analysis, elementary probability, sampling distributions, estimation and hypothesis testing, one- and two-sample procedures, regression and correlation. Learning to do statistical analysis on a personal computer is an integral part of the course. Students are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in May.
SAT Prep Math
STEM
Course Code: 373
Credits: 0.5
Grade: 10-12
Weight: General
Schools: C, K, W, WAMS, WCA
This is a half-year course that reviews test-taking strategies and problem solving techniques, and encourages both long-term and short-term preparation for the SAT and other standardized assessments. Tips on improving computational and reasoning skills are included. Practice sessions guide students to a better understanding of the problems that commonly appear on the SAT and related tests. The graphing calculator is used throughout the course.
Elementary Discrete Mathematics: UCONN
STEM
Course Code: 390U
Credits: 1.0 (1/2 year course)
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: K (Fall or Spring)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II. Precalculus recommended; a Math score of 530 or higher on the SATs recommended.
This semester-long college-level course for advanced learners looks at Problem solving strategies, solutions of simultaneous linear equations, sequences, counting and probability, graph theory, deductive reasoning, the axiomatic method and finite geometries, number systems. Though this course is only a half year, students earn 3 UCONN credits and therefore will earn a full high school credit for successful completion of the course. Please note: This is a half year course; however, a student who is successful can earn a full high school credit.
Financial and Practical Math
STEM
Course Code: SP001
Credits: 1
Grade: 9-12
Weight: General
Schools: E
This course is designed to equip students with essential mathematical skills needed for everyday life and future careers. This course covers topics such as budgeting, personal finance, loans, taxes, and financial decision-making. Students will explore practical applications of math in areas like banking, credit management, and consumer purchasing while developing problem-solving skills that are applicable to real-world scenarios. Students will learn to apply mathematical concepts to make informed financial decisions and navigate the complexities of modern life with confidence.
Mathematics for Business and Economics: UCONN
STEM
Course Code: 385U
Credits: 1.0
Weight: AP/Post Secondary
Schools: K
Prerequisite: Successful completion of one year of Precalculus is recommended. Students who passed Calculus II UCONN are ineligible for this course.
Linear equations and inequalities, matrices, systems of linear equations, and linear programming; sets, counting, probability and statistics; mathematics of finance; applications to business and economics. Note: This is a full-year course.