Math
Mathematics Department
All students are required to take four years of math.
7th Grade
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Algebra transitions the student from arithmetic to algebra. After a brief review of arithmetic, which includes converting between fractions, decimals, and percentages, and finding the mean, median and mode, the course focuses on solving word problems involving ratios and percentages. Special emphasis is placed on being able to analyze word problems graphically as well as numerically. Other topics introduced involve signed numbers, powers and roots, adding like terms, solving single variable equations, and finding the volume and surface area of shapes such as pyramids, cones, and spheres.
8th Grade
Algebra
A review of angles, exponents, roots, area, surface area, volume, and adding like terms begins this course. More advanced word problems, ratio problems, and percentage problems are covered. The addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of polynomials as well as factoring are covered at length. The concept of graphing linear equations is introduced, as well as complex fractions, radical expressions, scientific notation, rational equations, and systems of equations. The course concludes with the introduction of the quadratic formula.
Freshman Algebra I
Two semesters; 1 credit. Algebra I is required for all freshmen. This course consists of the study of variables and expressions, operations with real numbers, equations and inequalities, linear functions, systems, exponents and operations on polynomial expressions, rational expressions, and quadratic equations.
Sophomore Geometry
Two semesters; 1 credit Geometry is required for all sophomores. This course includes the study of parallel and perpendicular lines and planes; similar and congruent polygons; measurement of angles, segments and polygons; and circles. Emphasis on formal deductive proofs through the study of the definitions, postulates, and theorems of geometry form the basis of this course.
Junior Algebra II
Two semesters; 1 credit Algebra II is required for all Juniors. This course consists of a review and an extension of the Algebra I topics. It also includes the study of the complex number system, quadratic functions, rational functions, square root functions, and their graphs. Analytic geometry topics are studied using both algebraic and geometric methods. Logarithmic functions are also included.
Senior Pre-calculus
Two semesters; 1 credit. Pre-Calculus is required for all Seniors. Prerequisites: Algebra II and Geometry. This course includes the study of analytic geometry and trigonometry topics and is a prerequisite to Calculus. Graphing calculators are required.
