Mathematics

Mathematics is the universal language. It allows all to make sense of the natural world—to observe, quantify, analyze, make connections, and solve problems in every field of study.

The ability to comprehend, develop, and utilize mathematical concepts is invaluable throughout life; all global citizens need strong fluency in this area. Achieving this ability is best done by learning to draw reasonable conclusions from information found in various sources. Whether from observation, words, data, or graphs, students use the tools of mathematics to analyze information and become adept at problem solving. Students are encouraged to welcome new challenges, question and justify their conjectures and solutions, test the reasonableness of those solutions, develop facility with and understanding of mathematical operations and procedures, and use them appropriately to make sense of the world.

The High School mathematics requirement is four full years of math. Students also have the opportunity to take more than one math course when their schedule allows for it. The mathematics curriculum encompasses the traditional high school courses of Algebra 1 through AP Calculus AB and BC, with additional courses in statistics and advanced level calculus.

Mathematics Courses

Algebra 1

Geometry

Geometry teaches students to represent situations with geometric models and apply properties of figures, to classify figures in terms of congruence and similarity and apply these relationships to deduce properties of and relationships of axioms. Algebra skills will be applied and reinforced throughout this course.

*offered at the College Prep, Accelerated, & Honors Levels [1 credit]

Algebra 2/Trigonometry

Precalculus

Calculus

Statistics

Financial Algebra

The purpose of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to learn and use algebra on real world problems with a financial focus. The course is designed for students to explore algebraic thinking patterns and functions in a financial context, and to apply these skills to relevant research topics of interest. Topics covered in the course will include function analysis and systems of equations, graphing, statistics, variables, and modeling. Financial applications will be a primary emphasis of the course and will include loans, investments, credit, insurance, taxes, and budgeting.

*offered at the Accelerated & Honors Levels [1 credit]

AP Precalculus

AP Calculus AB

AP Calculus AB includes methods of finding and applying the derivative and integral as a limit, studying the calculus of polynomial, trigonometric, exponential, logarithmic and inverse functions and applying it to problems involving analytic geometry, science and economics. The syllabus is determined by the AP College Board, and necessitates a rigorous and challenging pace. Preparation for the Advanced Placement Calculus AB Exam is extensive.

[1 credit]

AP Calculus BC

AP Calculus BC is an introductory college-level calculus course. Students cultivate their understanding of differential and integral calculus through engaging with real-world problems represented graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally and using definitions and theorems to build arguments and justify conclusions as they explore concepts like change, limits, and the analysis of functions.

[1 credit]

AP Statistics

Advanced Placement statistics is equivalent to a first year college statistics course. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Topics will include measures of central tendency and variation, probability, binomial distributions, the central limit theorem, linear regression, chi-square tests, and an introduction to calculus. Emphasis will be on applied problems in business, psychology, biology and the social sciences. Course content will include preparation for the Advanced Placement Statistics exam.

[1 credit]

Multivariable Calculus & Differential Equations

During the first semester after covering some preliminary topics on trigonometric substitutions, areas of surfaces of revolution, center of mass, work, fluid pressure, and the binomial series, the main topics are vector algebra, vector calculus, partial derivatives, multiple integrals, line integrals, and surface integrals as well as applications of these concepts. The second semester is a course on ordinary differential equations beginning with the complex exponential function, homogeneous and non-homogeneous linear differential equations and systems of those, including applications to various types of harmonic motion and electric circuits. Separable, Bernoulli, exact, and Euler differential equations with some applications are covered as well as graphical solutions of autonomous equations, series solutions, and numerical methods employing a graphing calculator. If time permits, the Laplace transform is introduced.