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Mathematics Department |
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Mathematics is a language that helps describes the relationships within the world and provides a vehicle for learning how to think quantitatively, spatially, and logically. Through its study we engage in logic and argument, identify and generalize patterns, and join analytical and creative thought. Our students complete a college preparatory program, with additional opportunities for the study of college level mathematics. We place strong emphasis on problem solving and the effective communication of ideas, in both written and oral forms. Above all, students are encouraged to have confidence in their abilities, to embrace their mathematical power, and to rise to the challenges they encounter along the way. |
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Pre-Algebra/Algebra I |
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This course is designed to provide students with a strong foundation for further learning in mathematics. Students learn the techniques of basic algebra and how to apply them to real world situations. Topics include fractions and exponents, data exploration, factoring, functions and graphs, linear equations and inequalities, and systems of equations. Students completing this class will be prepared for Intermediate Algebra. |
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Intermediate Algebra |
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This course transitions students with some experience in Algebra I topics into a full year of Algebra II the following year. Topics include functions, equations, and inequalities of the following types: linear, quadratic, exponential, rational, and radical. Other topics are systems of equations, factoring, and graphing. Students completing this class will be prepared for Algebra II. |
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Algebra II |
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During the first part of the year this course reviews the techniques of beginning algebra, but raises the intellectual level by use of the mathematical language, proofs, and more complex applications of familiar principles. Topics include quadratic equations and inequalities, piece-wise functions, systems of equations and matrices, transformations, polynomial functions, the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra, inverse functions, rational functions and equations, exponential functions and equations, and logarithmic functions and equations. Students completing this class will be prepared for Geometry. |
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Advanced Algebra II |
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Based on a college algebra curriculum, this course deepens the mathematical conversation to investigate techniques in functional analysis. Working through polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, rational, and root functions, students are challenged to generate theory based on graphical and algebraic approaches. To reinforce these ideas, this course emphasizes important scientific and mathematical applications. Students completing this class will be prepared for Advanced Geometry. |
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Geometry |
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This course develops plane and solid geometry with an emphasis on problem solving of both the geometric and algebraic natures. As proofs are developed, emphasis is placed upon expressing ideas in clear and precise arguments that rely upon previously developed definitions, postulates, and theorems. Topics include parallel lines and planes, congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, similar polygons, right triangles, circles, area, and volume of solids. Students completing both Algebra II and Geometry will be prepared for Precalculus. |
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Advanced Geometry |
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This course develops plane and solid geometry, focusing on problem solving and proof rather than memorization. Starting from scratch, the course assumes acceptance of the terms point, line, plane, and space, and from there begins developing the vocabulary to discuss Euclidean Geometry. Students learn to develop cohesive definitions and to distinguish between statements that are assumed to be true without proof (axioms and postulates) with statements that can be proven (theorems). Emphasis is placed upon developing the deductive reasoning skills to break down complex ideas into clear and precise arguments. Students also learn to describe geometric objects using the tools of algebra by writing coordinate geometry proofs. Students completing both Advanced Algebra II and Advanced Geometry will be prepared for Advanced Precalculus. |
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PreCalculus |
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This course strengthens skills in simplifying expressions and solving equations, and it builds the connection between the properties of functions and the visual patterns of their graphs. After a thorough study of polynomial and rational functions, students will study a variety of other categories of functions, including but not limited to exponential functions and logarithmic functions. Prerequisite: Satisfactory year grade of A or B in Algebra 2 and recommendation of instructor
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Advanced Precalculus, Advanced Precalculus/Calculus |
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Assuming a solid understanding of the concepts discussed in Algebra II, this course forms a solid foundation upon which to discuss ideas in Calculus. Topics include polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions, inverse trigonometric functions, piecewise functions, complex numbers, analytic trigonometry, and analytic geometry. An accelerated section of this class will also begin the study of Calculus in the spring, providing a foundation for students to study BC Calculus the following year. Students completing these courses will be prepared for either AB or BC Calculus, Statistics, or Computer Science. |
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AP Calculus (AB or BC) |
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Calculus develops the terminology (limits, derivatives, integrals) and theory to discuss rates of change of functions, and calcuate area and volume of generalized curves. The AP courses jump right in and deal with the theory and application of these ideas to the set of functions studied in Precalculus. Students are challenged to work at a thorough and accelerated pace, providing a college-level academic experience and ultimately preparing for either the AB or BC level Advanced Placement exam held in early May. Prerequisite: Satisfactory year grade of A or B in Advanced Precalculus (for AB Calculus) or Advanced Precalculus/Calculus (for BC Calculus) and permission of instructor
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Calculus |
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This senior level course provides a thorough survey of the Calculus concepts (limits, derivatives, and integrals) and techniques to create a rich discussion of rates of change of functions and the calculation of area and volume of generalized curves. Applications to Physics, Economics, and Life Sciences will be explored. Prerequisite: Satisfactory year gade of A or B in Precalculus and recommendation of instructor |
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Statistics |
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Does aspirin help headaches? Were there more shark attacks two years ago than in previous years? Is the death rate of SARS any higher than the Swine Flu? Statistics can help answer these questions. It helps us describe the world around us, test our assumptions, and make predictions about the future. This senior-level course will be an applications-oriented, technology-based class that covers Normal Distributions, Student T Distributions, Confidence Intervals, Hypothesis Testing, Regression, and other fun-filled topics.
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Advanced Topics in Mathematics |
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The nature of this senior level elective is to provide a mathematical experience that is similar to that found at the undergraduate level. Topics vary by year and instructor and are decided in consultation with students. Past topics include linear algebra, multivariable calculus, discrete math, number theory, and differential equations. Students are encouraged to hone abstract reasoning and develop independent learning skills through a combination of seminar presentations, projects, and written work. |
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Computer Science |
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This is a hands-on course in which students will study computer programming and the art of program design. The course covers the fundamentals of computer science and we will be using the programming language Java to accomplish the course's goal. Students will first learn the basics of Java syntax, then move on to study iteration, arrays, recursion, object-oriented programming, and sorting and searching algorithms. The course is primarily project-based; both individual and group projects will be assigned. |
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