INTRODUCTION TO ALGEBRA

Grade Level: 9
Length of Course: 1 year
Credits: 5 credits per semester
Prerequisites: None

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course is designed for those students who do not pass the qualifying exam for Algebra I. It will include topics such as computations with decimals, whole numbers, integers, and fractions; as well as solving simple multi-step equations, basic geometry, beginning probability and statistics, graphing in a coordinate plane, data analysis, and problem solving models.

ALGEBRA I

Grade Level: 9 – 10
Length of Course: 1 year
Credits: 5 credits per semester
Prerequisites: C grade or better in pre-algebra, satisfactory entrance exam score

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Symbolic reasoning and calculations with symbols are central in algebra. Through the study of algebra, a student develops an understanding of the symbolic language of mathematics and the sciences. In addition, algebraic skills and concepts are developed and used in a wide variety of problem-solving situations. Areas of study will include work with linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, absolute value, solutions of multi-step problems, graphing techniques for linear, quadratic, and absolute value equations, techniques for factoring polynomials including the quadratic formula, completing the square, and factoring patterns. Students will also study relations, functions, and some probability and statistics.

GEOMETRY

Grade Level: 9-11
Length of Course: 1 year
Credits: 5 credits per semester
Prerequisites: C grade or better in Algebra I and satisfactory exam score

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The geometry skills and concepts developed in this discipline are useful to all students. Aside from learning these skills and concepts, students will develop their ability to construct formal, logical arguments and proofs in geometric settings and problems. Areas of study will include computation of perimeter, area, surface area of polygons and circles; computation of volume for prisms, pyramids and cylinders; classification of triangles and polygons using sides and angles; basic constructions; rigid motions; identification of undefined terms; axioms; theorems; and inductive and deductive reasoning. Students will also begin a study of trigonometric functions.

ALGEBRA II

Grade Level: 10 – 12
Length of Course: 1 year
Credits: 5 credits per semester
Prerequisites: C grade of better in geometry and satisfactory exam score

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This class complements and expands the mathematical content and concepts of Algebra I and geometry. Students who master Algebra II will gain experience with algebraic solutions to problems in various content areas, including the solution to systems of quadratic equations, logarithmic and exponential functions, the binomial theorem, and the complex number system. Students will also continue their study of statistics and probability theory.

ALGEBRA II HONORS

Grade Level: 10 – 12
Length of Course: 1 year
Credits: 5 credits per semester
Prerequisites: B grade or better in Algebra I and geometry and an exam score of at least 85%

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This class will be an accelerated study of Algebra II and will add a comprehensive study of trigonometry. It is designed for those students who wish to take calculus, more advanced mathematics, physics and other sciences, or engineering in college.