Saint Joseph Central High School
Math Department

 

 

     Algebra I: Policy Sheet

Algebra I introduces students to algebraic theory and methods from simple open sentences through quadratic equations. While learning to solve various types of equations, students work with graphing and word problems. The course includes simple functions, simultaneous equations, and irrational numbers.

     Honors Algebra I: Policy Sheet

Honors Algebra I offers special topics such as linear programming , matrices, and three-coordinate systems in addition to the topics of the standard Algebra I course. Prerequisite: Permission of the department.

     Fundamentals of Geometry: Policy Sheet

Like the accelerated course, Fundamentals of Geometry begins with a survey of geometric topics. Throughout the course, topics will be explored from an integrated transformational, algebraic (coordinate geometry) and traditional approach. The algebra concepts will be emphasized in order to strengthen the skills learned in theoretical aspects of the course. Opportunities will be provided for practical applications of geometry such as surveying. While not as theoretical as the Accelerated Course, this course will provide students with an opportunity to do some formal proof.

     Geometry: Policy Sheet

Geometry covers the basics of Euclidean geometry. The course begins with the important definitions and proceeds to two-column proofs of important concepts which are the backbone of the program. The course seeks a balance between theory and application. Also included is a short course on geometric constructions and an introduction to basic trigonometric functions via right triangle trigonometry. The course concludes with a discussion of areas and volumes.

     Honors Geometry: Policy Sheet

Honors geometry is a survey of geometric topics. Throughout the course, topics will be explored from an integrated transformational, algebraic, and traditional approach. Computer software, manipulative's, and other hands-on materials will supplement the theoretical aspects of the course. Opportunities will be provided for practical applications of geometry such as surveying. Students will experience all the traditional logic and theoretical aspects of geometry as well. Prerequisite is an Algebra I course with permission of the department. This course may be taken as a freshmen or concurrently with Accelerated Algebra II as a sophomore.

     Algebra II: Policy Sheet

Algebra II builds upon the topics covered in Algebra I. Considerable time is spent on functions, irrational numbers, and quadratic equations. Additional topics may include exponential and logarithmic functions, systems of equations and inequalities, and conic sections. Prerequisites are Algebra I and Geometry.

     Honors Algebra II: Policy Sheet

Honors Algebra II covers the standard Algebra II material and additional topics such as more extensive linear algebra and geometric series, series convergence, and limits. Permission of the department is required for this course.

     Algebra III:

Algebra III provides a review of previous Algebra topics covered and an introduction to functions and trigonometry. Students must have been successful in Algebra II in order to be enrolled in this course.

     Precalculus:Policy Sheet

Precalculus is an introduction to advanced mathematics. The first half of this course consists of a variety of topics such as analytical geometry, conic sections, and exponential and logarithmic functions. The second half of this course deals with trigonometry, the functions and identities.

     Honors Precalculus: Policy Sheet

Honors precalculus is designed to prepare the student to take the Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus course. After a brief review of radicals and fractional exponents and expressions, graphs of functions are studied. The TI-83 graphing calculator is recommended. Techniques used for solving equations and inequalities by hand and by calculator are explored. Exponential and logarithmic functions are studied in detail. Topics from trigonometry include radian measure, the unit circle, triangles, reference angles, graphs, inverse trigonometric functions, identities, equations, and the laws of sines and cosines. Finally limits of functions are defined and evaluated.

     Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus: Policy Sheet

Advanced Placement (AP) calculus is open to students who have maintained a "B" average in Trigonometry or Precalculus. Students must formally apply and be accepted into the program. The course covers all the necessary topics for the Advanced Placement Mathematics "AB" exam and has been approved by the College Board for "AP" designation. Students must be prepared to participate in class sessions beyond the usual rotation. Students are simultaneously enrolled in MAT 151 and MAT 152 at Berkshire Community College. Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be awarded 6 college credits. Students must maintain a "C-" or better in the first semester in order to continue in the dual enrollment for the second half. Students who can not maintain the average have the option of dropping the course or continuing the course without the BCC credits. A letter of application is required as well as summer work assignments.

     Probability and Statistics: Policy Sheet

Probability and Statistics is an elective course available to any student who has completed Algebra II. This course is an introduction to the concepts of probability and statistics using the technology and functionality of the TI-83 calculator.