The Mathematics Department empowers students to think critically, reason logically, and persevere through challenge. Students learn to apply mathematical thinking to real-world situations while developing confidence and adaptability.
Courses emphasize problem-solving, collaboration, and flexible thinking as students build understanding across core mathematical concepts. Learning environments encourage curiosity, reflection, and growth through productive struggle. Students should choose math courses that align with their post-high school goals, meet Wayzata Public Schools and Minnesota state requirements, and prepare for college or careers. Wayzata requires 8 math credits, with up to 2 credits fulfilled through Applied Math or STEM courses. Students are expected to develop proficiency in algebra, geometry, probability, statistics, and discrete mathematics to meet college and career expectations.
Mathematics courses support the Portrait of a Wayzata Graduate by fostering analytical thinking, resilience, and informed decision-making.
The 2022 MN State Math standards are effective beginning with the Class of 2029. These new standards introduce a new mathematics pathway that Wayzata High School will implement for the Class of 2030. For students entering Wayzata High School with a completion of Algebra 1 in 8th grade, the pathway is as follows:
Year 1 = Statistics 1 + Geometry 1
Year 2 = Nonlinear Algebra + Geometry 2
Year 3 = Algebra 2 + Statistics 2
If a Student completed Intermediate Algebra, Geometry, or Accelerated Geometry at Wayzata High School, they will continue on the following CPM (College Preparatory Math) Sequence:
Intermediate Algebra → Geometry / Accelerated Geometry → Algebra 2 / Extended Algebra 2 / Accelerated Algebra 2 → PreCalculus / Accelerated PreCalculus
Electives:
AP Statistics
Applied Mathematics (M) (offered through Compass)
Calculus Concepts
AP Calculus AB Extended (3-terms)
AP Calculus AB (2 terms) and AP Calculus BC (2 terms)
Differential Equations and Linear Algebra
Statistical Reasoning in Sports (1 term)
Mathematics Department Chair: Stacy Larson
304 - Geometry: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Intermediate Algebra
This course is a continuation of the extensive, connected, and applied study of mathematics from College Preparatory Mathematics (CPM) Intermediate Algebra. The topics covered in this course include exploring shapes and solids, angles, transformations, trigonometry, probability, proofs, and circles.
305 - Accelerated Geometry: 2 Terms/2 Credits, Grades 9-10
Prerequisite: Intermediate Algebra
This course covers geometry topics more deeply and quickly, utilizing group work and inquiry-based teaching methods. Additional topics covered include counting principles, secants/tangents, expected value, and conditional probability. A grade of a B or higher in Accelerated Math 8 or an A in Intermediate Algebra is recommended.
307 - Algebra 2: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Geometry or Accelerated Geometry
This course is a continuation of the extensive, connected, and applied study of mathematics from College Preparatory Mathematics (CPM) Algebra and Geometry. The topics covered in this course include transformations of parent graphs, equivalent forms, solving equations and graphing their intersections, inverses and logarithms, trigonometric functions, and polynomials.
307A + 307B + 307C - Algebra 2 Extended: 3 Terms / 3 Credits, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Geometry or Accelerated Geometry
This course covers Algebra 2 topics over 3 terms instead of 2. This course is designed for students who have encountered challenges with math in the past and would benefit from a slightly slower pace.
308 - Accelerated Algebra 2: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 9-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Geometry or Accelerated Geometry
This course covers the Algebra 2 topics more deeply and quickly. Additional topics covered include series, binomial theorem, and normal distributions. A grade of B in Accelerated Geometry or an A in Geometry is recommended.
309 - PreCalculus: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or Accelerated Algebra 2
Students explore exponentials, logarithms, trigonometric functions, polynomials, rational functions, and vectors. Additional topics may include parametric equations and matrices
310 - Accelerated PreCalculus: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or Accelerated Algebra 2
This course is the same as PreCalculus but at a faster pace with additional focus on limits, rates of change, and advanced problem-solving. A grade of B or better in Accelerated Algebra 2 or an A in Algebra 2 is recommended.
311 - AP PreCalculus: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or Accelerated Algebra 2
This course will follow the College Board's course framework and is designed to prepare students for college-level calculus. In this course, students will study a broad spectrum of function types that are foundational for careers in mathematics, physics, biology, health science, social science, and data science. The major units of study are exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric and polar functions, polynomial and rational functions, and functions involving parameters, vectors, and matrices. AP PreCalculus is open to all students.
These courses are designed to be offered as one‑term courses, replacing the traditional semester‑long format. By condensing each subject into a focused term, students can engage more intensively with the material while maintaining depth of understanding. This structure enables a spiraled, sequential progression over the first three years of high school, ensuring that foundational concepts are reinforced before advancing to more advanced topics. The one-term format also provides flexibility in scheduling, enabling students to explore additional elective opportunities, participate in specialized programs, or engage in project-based learning experiences without extending their overall course load. Despite the shorter term, each course maintains alignment with the Minnesota Math Standards, emphasizing rigorous conceptual understanding, application, and reasoning consistent with the traditional semester-long courses.
350 - Statistics 1: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
This course invites students to explore and interpret the world of data. Students investigate how to ask meaningful questions, collect and represent data ethically, and use graphical and numerical summaries to uncover patterns and variability. They formulate and critique arguments based on data, connecting probability reasoning with prediction and decision‑making. Throughout the course, students apply statistical thinking to real-world situations, from interpreting surveys and experiments to modeling uncertainty and variation, which prepares them to be informed citizens and consumers of data in school, at work, and in their daily lives. Standards of Mathematical Practice (such as modeling with mathematics and reasoning quantitatively) are woven into every unit to deepen understanding and proficiency.
351 - Geometry 1: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
This course develops spatial reasoning and geometric sense through rich problem‑solving, connecting abstract geometric ideas with tangible contexts. Students explore attributes of shapes, transformations, and measurement relationships, using varied representations (diagrams, coordinates, constructions) to make and justify conjectures. Emphasis is placed on reasoning with spatial relationships, constructing logical arguments, and using geometric models to solve real‑world problems. Opportunities to integrate measurement with data and algebraic thinking help students see geometry as a living part of mathematics rather than an isolated topic. Mathematical practices such as making sense of problems, attending to precision, and using appropriate tools are central to this course.
352 - Nonlinear Algebra: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Statistics 1 and Geometry 1
Building on patterns and relationships developed earlier, Nonlinear Algebra guides students through functions and equations beyond linear models. Students delve into polynomial, exponential, and other nonlinear functions, exploring their graphs, behaviors, and real-world applications, and use algebraic structure to make sense of variation and change. Emphasis is placed on connections between symbolic, graphical, and contextual representations. Students will solve complex equations and inequalities, reason formally and contextually about functions, and use algebraic reasoning to model situations from data analysis, geometry, finance, and science. The Standards for Mathematical Practice (such as constructing viable arguments and modeling with mathematics) are intentionally embedded.
353 - Geometry 2: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Nonlinear Algebra
This continuation of geometric study expands students’ capacity to analyze geometric relationships in increasingly abstract and applied contexts. Students reason about congruence and similarity, work with trigonometric relationships, and use geometric models to solve problems in two and three dimensions. Spatial reasoning is reinforced through explorations of transformations, constructions, and coordinate geometry. Geometry 2 also strengthens the integration between algebra and geometry, helping students use functions to describe geometric relationships and harness measurement and modeling in applications ranging from architectural design to data visualization. Throughout, students develop mathematical practices such as reasoning abstractly and using tools strategically.
354 - Algebra 2: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Geometry 2
Algebra 2 deepens students’ understanding of functions and quantitative reasoning, preparing them for advanced study and real-world problem-solving. Students investigate complex and composite functions, systems, exponential and logarithmic models, and introductory discrete and continuous models. Topics such as sequences, series, and probability are explored through multiple representations and applications. Emphasis on structure, equivalence, and transformation helps students generalize from specific problems to broad mathematical ideas. Algebra 2 strengthens students’ fluency with symbolic manipulation while encouraging conceptual sense-making and modeling practices essential for technical careers, financial decisions, and future STEM coursework.
355 - Statistics 2: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Algebra 2
This advanced statistics course builds on foundational data literacy and extends students’ ability to gather, analyze, and interpret complex data. Students investigate sampling distributions, statistical inference, regression and correlation, and multivariable data analysis. Real‑world projects emphasize applying statistical reasoning to questions in science, business, public policy, and everyday life. Students use simulations and technology to assess variability and uncertainty, justify conclusions, and communicate findings clearly to varied audiences. Mathematical practice standards, such as critiquing others' reasoning and modeling with mathematics, are central, ensuring that students graduate with data skills that matter for college and careers.
This course is waived if students complete AP Statistics (course 336).
Calculus is a branch of mathematics regarded by many historians to be one of the most important and influential inventions in the development of human thought. The arrival and subsequent development of Calculus have made possible the rapid and continual expansion of scientific thought and understanding from the seventeenth century onward. The concepts of Calculus are used in every subject area in which quantities change with respect to one another, including mathematics, biology, physics, chemistry, business, marketing, economics, finance, statistics, social sciences, and numerous others. A thorough understanding of Calculus will prepare students for further study in college courses, including Differential Equations, Mathematical Modeling, Multivariable Calculus, Linear Algebra, Complex Variables, Statistics, and Analysis. There are four Calculus offerings, namely AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus AB (Extended), AP Calculus BC, and Calculus Concepts.
332 - Calculus Concepts: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 11-12 [Watch Course Video]
HYBRID COURSE
Prerequisite: PreCalculus or Accelerated PreCalculus or AP PreCalculus
An introduction to differential and integral calculus, including limits, derivatives, and integrals. This hybrid course combines in-class and flexible online learning, preparing students for college Calculus 1 or Business Calculus.
Options after Calculus Concepts: AP Statistics (336)
340A + 340B + 340C - AP Calculus AB Extended: 3 Terms / 3 Credits, Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: PreCalculus or Accelerated PreCalculus or AP PreCalculus
The AP Calculus AB (Extended) course covers the exact same syllabus as Course 341 – AP Calculus AB (see description below), but does so over three terms instead of two. A grade of C or better in Accelerated PreCalculus/AP PreCalculus or a grade of B or better in PreCalculus with teacher recommendation is recommended for enrollment in this course.
Options after AP Calculus AB Extended: AP Statistics (336)
341 - AP Calculus AB: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]
Prerequisite: PreCalculus or Accelerated PreCalculus or AP PreCalculus
The AP Calculus AB course follows the syllabus set forth by the College Board’s Advanced Placement program to cover the topics necessary for the AP Calculus AB exam. Topics covered in this course include limits, derivatives, integrals, and applications thereof. A grade of B or better in Accelerated PreCalculus/AP PreCalculus or an A in PreCalculus with teacher recommendation is recommended for enrollment in this course.
Options after AP Calculus AB: AP Statistics (336), AP Calculus BC (342)
342 - AP Calculus BC: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: AP Calculus AB
The AP Calculus BC course follows the syllabus set forth by the College Board’s Advanced Placement program to cover the topics necessary for the AP Calculus BC exam. Concepts from AP Calculus AB will be extended to include parametric, polar, and vector functions, infinite series, and differential equations. Students must be prepared for rigorous study outside of class. A grade of C or higher in AP Calculus BC during the previous semester is recommended.
Options after AP Calculus BC: AP Statistics (336), Differential Equations and Linear Equations (344)
336 - AP Statistics: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12 [Watch Course Video]
336HY - AP Statistics Hybrid: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: PreCalculus or Accelerated PreCalculus or AP PreCalculus
The purpose of the course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes, including:
Exploring Data: observing patterns and departures from patterns;
Planning a Study: deciding what and how to measure;
Anticipating Patterns: producing models using probability and simulation; and
Statistical Inference: confirming models.
Students who successfully complete the course and AP examination may receive credit and/or advanced placement for a one-semester introductory college statistics course. The TI-84+ calculator family is recommended. A grade of C or higher in PreCalculus or Accelerated PreCalculus is recommended for enrollment in this course.
Student Testimonial:
"The AP Hybrid Statistics class is a great experience for students to take. Being able to learn on my own time, while also getting the block to possibly work on other things, was really helpful. Also, having the option to come into class for help was incredibly beneficial for me. The tests are structured to help students learn and build on their learning in a group. This was definitely my favorite AP course I’ve taken!"
344 - Differential Equations & Linear Algebra: 2 Terms / 2 Credits, Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: AP Calculus BC
Students will learn how the study of differential equations is a beautiful application of the ideas and techniques of calculus to the modeling of everyday phenomena. Within this context, they will learn to solve and interpret differential equations algebraically, numerically (using computers and calculators), graphically, and qualitatively (through discussion of the properties of equations and solutions). At the same time, students will learn the basic concepts of linear algebra, a branch of mathematics that reveals the underlying structure of mathematical systems. They will learn how to apply these concepts to the solution and interpretation of systems of equations, and eventually, systems of differential equations. In addition, the course includes a lab component in which students will learn to use MATLAB, an industry-standard software package for mathematical computing. A grade of C or better in AP Calculus BC is recommended for enrollment in this course.
346 - Statistical Reasoning in Sports: 1 Term / 1 Credit, Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Algebra 2
Did Cam Newton choke in the Super Bowl? Can a swimsuit make you faster? Who should I draft for my fantasy baseball team?
Offering a unique and powerful way to introduce the principles of statistical reasoning, Statistical Reasoning in Sports makes statistics exciting with high-interest sports (and life) examples that show how statistics is a part of everyday life.
Statistical Reasoning in Sports examines fascinating questions about sports and life by investigating the underlying statistical issues and fostering a fun classroom atmosphere where students perform simulations, analyze data, and use simple randomization processes to develop an understanding of statistics.
9993C + 9993B - Compass AP Cybersecurity & Applied Mathematics with Personal Finance (Compass AP Cybersecurity+Math + Compass Personal Finance) - 2 Terms / 4 Credits, Grades 11-12
Prerequisite: A computer course is recommended but not required
Compass AP Cybersecurity & Applied Mathematics with Personal Finance is a two-term, interdisciplinary course scheduled for two blocks per day and earns four WHS credits. This Compass course fulfills the Personal Finance WPS graduation requirement and offers eligible students the opportunity to earn three college credits through concurrent enrollment in “CVF1065: Computer Forensics” at Century College, transferable to many colleges and universities nationwide.
This college-level course explores how data, systems, and money interact in an increasingly digital world. Students examine the modern cybersecurity landscape, learning how adversaries exploit system vulnerabilities and how organizations manage risk through security controls, policies, and procedures. Through digital forensics, students practice evidence collection and analysis while building foundational knowledge in networking, encryption, and cybersecurity principles.
Applied mathematics is embedded throughout the course, with real-world applications including graph theory, game theory, voting methods, cryptography, and financial systems. Students also develop essential personal finance skills, exploring financial psychology, income and earnings, budgeting, credit and debt management, risk, and investing. Emphasis is placed on practical application, critical thinking, and informed decision-making.
The course is team-taught and emphasizes experiential learning through hands-on projects with real organizations, guest speakers, mentors, off-site experiences, and interactive assignments. It is well-suited for students interested in technology, engineering, mathematics, business, finance, or law enforcement. Students will be prepared to take the CompTIA Security+ and/or the CompTIA Network+ certification exams.