Mathematics Core Curriculum

In this course, students begin their study of mathematical patterns and ideas. The course is balanced between learning skills, exploring concepts, and solving problems. Students use technology to gather, interpret, and represent data from real-world situations. Creating and using mathematical models is a theme throughout. Algebra is integrated with geometry, probability, and statistics. Students learn equations—linear, quadratic, and exponential—as well as systems of equations and inequalities, functions, and fractals.

In this course, students engage in investigations and activities. Students learn Euclidean Geometry such as deductive proof, properties of polygons, circles, similar/congruent triangles, parallel lines, area and volume, the Pythagorean Theorem, basic concepts of right triangle trigonometry, and general ideas of transformations. Students use computer technology and traditional geometry tools in all investigations. Students apply geometry concepts to various arts areas within the course.

In Algebra II, students study functions—linear, exponential, polynomial, and parametric—through the use of data. Students also learn introductory trigonometry, statistics, and probability. Students use calculators, computers, and data gathering devices to investigate all topics. Throughout the course, students discover the sense behind the mathematics, rather than simply learning steps for solving problems. Small group work, discussion, and the real world interpretation of mathematics are stressed. Applications to the arts are woven throughout the curriculum.

This course is an introduction to the world of budgeting, understanding credit, debt, and how to navigate the financial world - all skills that are important for adulthood. Students will learn the difference between wealth and cash, how to create a budget, and how to navigate the confusing world of taxes, loans, and credit cards. Students will also learn the importance of making investments and how to plan for — and meet — both short-term and long-term financial goals. Through simulations and creating personal goals, students will get hands-on experience planning for their financial success.

In this course, students gain an understanding of and comfort working with data and statistics. Designed for students who have completed the mathematics curriculum up to or beyond Algebra, students learn one variable analysis, two variable analysis, as well as probability and statistical inference. Students learn to question statistical information and think critically about possible conclusions. Students work with data and develop observational studies and experiments. Students also learn to calculate and use probabilities.

In this introductory programming course, students learn both fundamental programming concepts and collaborative software development processes while working in a project-based environment to design apps. Students learn about variables, conditionals, functions, lists, loops, traversals, algorithms, parameters, return, and libraries. Students explore ideas through hands-on activities, investigate these ideas through guided code reading, practice with sample problems, and apply their understanding as they produce a one-day scoped project. The course concludes with an open-ended project designing and building an app.

This course is designed to serve students who are preparing for Calculus or further work in mathematics. As a pre-calculus course, it offers an analytical, graphical and numerical approach to understanding polynomials, exponential functions, logarithms, and a wide variety of trigonometry topics. Students also learn polar graphs, conic sections, matrices, sequences, and series. Real life applications and data interpretation are integral parts of this course of study.

This course introduces the students to the basic concepts of one of the most important fields of mathematics most people ever encounter.  Statistics is about data, and data are numbers with a context.  Students learn to make statements of facts and inferences and to state a level of confidence in their inferences. They become proficient in accurately communicating statistical concepts, including methods of data collection and valid interpretations of data. The course follows the topics outlined in the Advanced Placement curriculum in preparation for the AP Test in May.

Students completing the course successfully are prepared to take the AP Calculus AB exam. Students learn limits, continuity, differentiability; optimization, related rates, separable differential equations, and slope fields; indefinite integrals, Riemann Sums, definite integrals, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, and applications of the definite integral. The course material is explored through class discussions, small group activities and investigations, sample exam questions, and individual study of problems.