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Mathematics
"God Himself is order, and because all things were created from God, they were created from order, in order, and with a view to Order." (TCR 502)
"Mathematics is the alphabet with which God has written the Universe." (Galileo Galilei)
All courses meet four periods per week for 4 points credit per term. A student must maintain an 80 average in the most accelerated track. If an underclassman earns an average grade below 80, the student may only continue to the next accelerated course by petitioning the department.
Algebra 1. A course which lays a foundation for using variables and expressions as a language for modeling. Topics include operations with rational and non-rational numbers, evaluating and manipulating algebraic expressions, writing, solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities, working with polynomial, radical and rational expressions, and problem solving. An introduction to solving quadratic equations is also covered. For freshmen. Weight A.
Accelerated Geometry. This course covers all the topics of plane and 3-dimensional geometry (see below) at a faster pace and in greater depth. It includes transformations and coordinate geometry and emphasizes logic and proof. For freshmen who have taken Algebra 1. Weight B.
Geometry. This course provides a basis for further work in mathematics and related sciences. Facts about plane and 3-dimensional figures are developed in logical sequence, through concrete examples and exploration, to show the nature of mathematical reasoning. Topics include logic, constructions, congruence, similarity, circles, area, volume, the Pythagorean Theorem and trigonometric ratios. The ability to present an deductive argument is developed, but this course relies more on inductive reasoning. For sophomores. Weight A.
Accelerated Algebra. An Algebra 2 course for sophomores who have completed Algebra 1 and Geometry and wish to work toward taking Advanced Placement Calculus during senior year. This course covers all the topics of Algebra 2 (see below) at a faster pace and in greater depth. Weight B.
Algebra 2. This course emphasizes mastery of Algebra 1 skills and the development of new tools for problem solving. It includes operations with complex numbers and algebraic expressions, writing, solving and graphing polynomial equations and inequalities, and solving rational, radical and exponential equations. For juniors who have taken Algebra 1 and Geometry. This course is not a preparation for Pre-calculus. Weight A.
Algebra 2 with Trigonometry. This course covers all the topics of Algebra 2 at a faster pace and in greater depth. It concludes with a review of right triangle trigonometry and an introduction to trigonometric functions. For juniors who have taken Algebra 1 and Geometry and plan to take Pre-calculus. Weight B.
Accelerated Pre-Calculus. This course explores functions in depth as a preparation for Advanced Placement Calculus. Both analytic and graphical perspectives are used, including concepts of translations, transformations, composition and inverse functions. Topics includes the polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions. For juniors who have taken Geometry and Algebra 2. Weight B.
Advanced Placement Statistics. A course in exploratory analysis, planning probability, and statistical inference, per the College Board syllabus, for accelerated juniors who are ready to undertake work at the college level. This course requires extensive homework and culminates in the Advanced Placement Statistics examination. Each student should own a graphing calculator. Students will have the opportunity to tie all the course’s themes together in a final project and presentation. For juniors who have taken Pre-calculus. Weight C.
Algebra 3 with Trigonometry. This course is a continues the study of functions begun in Algebra 2, including analytic geometry and solutions of higher order equations. A significant portion of the course is devoted to trigonometry and its applications. Topics include a review of right triangle trigonometry, then the unit circle, radian measure of an angle, graphs of trigonometric functions, their translations and transformation. This course does not satisfy the fourth year mathematics requirement for a Comprehensive Diploma. Only for seniors who have taken a regular Algebra 2 course. Weight A.
Senior Pre-Calculus. This course explores functions as a preparation for Calculus in college. Both analytic and graphical perspectives are used, including concepts of translations, transformations, composition and inverse functions. Topics includes the polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic functions, with a particular emphasis on trigonometry and its applications. For seniors who have taken Algebra 2 with Trigonometry. Weight B.
Advanced Placement Calculus AB. An introduction to differential and integral calculus, per the College Board syllabus, for accelerated seniors who are ready to undertake work at the college level. Topics are considered from analytical, numerical and graphical perspectives. Graphing calculators are used extensively, and students will learn when and how to apply this technology when solving problems. Each student is also expected to take the Advanced Placement Calculus AB examination. For seniors who have taken Pre-calculus. Weight C.