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Math Sequence
The recommended sequence for math placement is as follows:
Track 1
8th Grade Algebra I (Honors)
9th Grade Algebra II (Honors)
10th Grade Advanced Math (Geometry,
Trigonometry, Algebra III) (Honors)
11th Grade Pre-Calculus (Honors)
12th Grade AP Calculus (Honors)
Track 2
8th Grade Saxon Course 3 (Pre-Algebra)
9th Grade Algebra I
10th Grade Algebra II
11th Grade Geometry
12th Grade Advanced Math (Geometry,
Trigonometry, Algebra III) OR Statistics
Algebra I (R)
This course covers topics typically treated in a first-year algebra course. Specific topics covered include the following: arithmetic of and evaluation of expressions involving signed numbers, exponents and roots, properties of the real numbers absolute value and equations and inequalities involving absolute value, scientific notation, unit conversions, solution of equations in one unknown and solution of simultaneous equations, the algebra of polynomials and rational expressions, word problems requiring algebra for their solution (such as uniform motions and coin problems), graphical solution of simultaneous equations, Pythagorean theorem, algebraic proofs, functions and functional notation, solution of quadratic equations via factoring and inverse variation, and exponential growth, computation of the perimeter and areas of two-dimensional regions, computation of the surface area and volume of a wide variety of geometric solids, and statistics and probability. Students must have a “C” average the last quarter to go to the next level. Eighth graders in Algebra I must have a “B” average or better to be recommended for Honors Algebra II.
Algebra II (R)
This course not only treats topics that are traditionally covered in second-year algebra, it covers a considerable amount of geometry. Specific algebra topics covered include the following: graphical solution to simultaneous equations, scientific notation, radicals, roots of quadratic equations including complex roots, properties of the real numbers, inequalities and systems of inequalities, logarithms and antilogarithms, exponential equations, basic trigonometric functions, algebra of polynomials, vectors, polar and rectangular coordinate systems, and a wide spectrum of word problems requiring algebra to solve. Considerable time is spent developing geometric concepts and writing proof outlines. Students completing Algebra II will have studied the equivalent of one semester of informal geometry. Applications to other subjects such as physics and chemistry as well as “real-world” problems are covered including gas law, force vector, chemical mixture, percent markups, etc. Set theory, probability and statistics, and other topics are also treated.
Geometry (R for Track 2)
This course emphasizes abstract and logical thinking through inductive and deductive reasoning as they apply to lines, planes, congruent and right triangles, proportion and similarity, circles, polygons and area, solids and volume. Methods of teaching geometric concepts include real-world applications, modeling activities, constructions; and integration of Algebra, Trigonometry, Spherical geometry and graph theory.
Advanced Math (Geometry, Trigonometry, Algebra II)
(R for Track 1)
In Advanced Mathematics, topics from algebra, geometry, trigonometry, discrete mathematics, and mathematical analysis are interwoven to form a fully integrated text. Specific topics covered in this text include permutations and combinations, trigonometric identities, inverse trigonometric functions, conic sections, graphs of sinusoids, rectangular and polar representations of complex numbers, DeMoivre’s theorem, matrices and determinants, the binomial theorem, and the rational roots theorem. Additionally, a rigorous treatment of Euclidean geometry is presented. Word problems are developed through the problem sets and become progressively more elaborate and difficult. By the end of the text, students will be able to solve competition-level problems with ease. The graphing calculator is studied and used to graph functions and perform data analysis. Also, conceptually-oriented problems that prepare students for college entrance exams (such as the ACT and SAT) are included in the problem sets.
Statistics (R for Track 2)
Statistics is a class designed to introduce students to basic statistical terminology and equations which will help prepare them for a college level statistics course. Statistics is available to 12th grade students who have completed Advanced Math. The content of this course includes statistical terminology, how to organize data, averages and variations, correlation and regression, elementary probability theory, probability distribution, normal curves and sampling distributions,
estimation, hypothesis testing, inferences about differences, and additional topics using inference. Students will learn how to gather and organize data, graph results in a variety of ways, and predict outcomes from their results.
Pre-Calculus (Honors) (R for Track 1)
Pre-Calculus is the second year in the Saxon’s Advanced Math book. This class will finish the book mid-year, and then proceed into calculus concepts.
Advanced Placement Calculus (Honors)
(Required for Track I)
Calculus is made up of four instructional components: Introduction of the New Increment, Examples with Complete solutions, Daily Problem Set, and Cumulative Tests. Calculus covers all topics in the Advanced Placement Calculus AB and CalculusBC syllabi. The instruction takes full advantage of graphing calculators, using them for visual demonstrations of concepts and confirming calculations. Calculus includes such topics as: review of functions, review of trigonometry, limits, graphing calculators, derivatives, integrals, optimization problems, techniques of integration, polar functions, area between two curves, inverse functions, motion analysis, applications of integrals, solids of revolution, continuity, L’Hpital’s rule, logarithmic differentiation, parametric functions, Mean Value Theorem, Newton’s method, trapezoidal rule, series, tests of convergence, slope fields, Euler’s method, logistic growth, arc length.
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