2011-2012 High School Course Descriptions
Mathematics
PRE-ALGEBRA
1.0 CreditPre-Algebra courses increase students' foundational math skills and prepare them for Algebra I by covering a variety of topics, such as properties of rational numbers (i.e., number theory), ratio, proportion, estimation, exponents and radicals, the rectangular coordinate system, sets and logic, formulas, and solving first-degree equations and inequalities.
ALGEBRA I *
1.0 CreditAlgebra I courses include the study of properties and operations of the real number system; evaluating rational algebraic expressions; solving and graphing first degree equations and inequalities; translating word problems into equations; operations with and factoring of polynomials; and solving simple quadratic equations.
ALGEBRA II *
1.0 CreditAlgebra II course topics typically include field properties and theorems; set theory; operations with rational and irrational expressions; factoring of rational expressions; in-depth study of linear equations and inequalities; quadratic equations; solving systems of linear and quadratic equations; graphing of constant, linear, and quadratic equations; properties of higher degree equations; and operations with rational and irrational exponents.
GEOMETRY *
1.0 CreditGeometry courses, emphasizing an abstract, formal approach to the study of geometry, typically include topics such as properties of plane and solid figures; deductive methods of reasoning and use of logic; geometry as an axiomatic system including the study of postulates, theorems, and formal proofs; concepts of congruence, similarity, parallelism, perpendicularity, and proportion; and rules of angle measurement in triangles.
PRE-CALCULUS/TRIG *
1.0 CreditPre-Calculus courses combine the study of Trigonometry, Elementary Functions, Analytic Geometry, and Math Analysis topics as preparation for calculus. Topics typically include the study of complex numbers; polynomial, logarithmic, exponential, rational, right trigonometric, and circular functions, and their relations, inverses and graphs; trigonometric identities and equations; solutions of right and oblique triangles; vectors; the polar coordinate system; conic sections; Boolean algebra and symbolic logic; mathematical induction; matrix algebra; sequences and series; and limits and continuity.
Multivariate Calculus Hon *
0.5 CreditOne semester. Multivariate Calculus includes the study of hyperbolic functions, improper integrals, directional directives, multiple integration and its applications. The honors course prepares students for advanced course work and engages students in enrichment opportunities. Rigor is demonstrated through sophistication and acceleration in terms of thought-provoking learning activities, challenging assessments, and more complex text/materials. Diverse interests, cultures, perspectives, learning styles, and intelligences are cultivated and higher level critical and creative thinking skills such as interpretation, problem-solving, investigation, and logic are emphasized throughout the honors course.
Differential Calculus Hon *
0.5 CreditOne semester. Differential Calculus course includes the study of elementary differential equations including first and higher order differential equations, partial differential equation, linear equations systems of linear equations, transformations, series solutions, numerical methods, boundary value problems and the existence theorem. The honors course prepares students for advanced course work and engages students in enrichment opportunities. Rigor is demonstrated through sophistication and acceleration in terms of thought-provoking learning activities, challenging assessments, and more complex text/materials. Diverse interests, cultures, perspectives, learning styles, and intelligences are cultivated and higher level critical and creative thinking skills such as interpretation, problem-solving, investigation, and logic are emphasized throughout the honors course.
* NCAA Approved Core Course