It is the concern of the Mathematics Department that our students:
- know and understand mathematical processes, facts and principles;
- understand the logical structure of mathematics and the nature of proof;
- perform computations with understanding, accuracy and efficiency;
- have the ability to solve verbal problems;
- develop attitudes and appreciation which stem from, and which lead to, greater curiosity, initiative, confidence and interests;
- develop proper methods of studying mathematics and communicating mathematically;
- develop study habits essential for independent and group work;
- develop the ability to use and apply technology in appropriate ways.
To facilitate reaching these goals, each student is required to satisfactorily complete four years of mathematics including: Algebra I, Geometry, and algebra II (or where appropriate, a more advanced sequence of courses). When courses are ability grouped, the Mathematics Department will place each student in the appropriate course dependent upon their assessment of her performance in entrance or standardized examinations, and/or prior performance in Mathematics courses.
Patterns of excessive absences and participation in the exchange program will be considered in making honors placements. All placements will be made with due consideration for the needs of the student.
CALCULATOR REQUIREMENTS:
The TI-84 Plus graphing calculator is required. The class of 2008 is required to have either the TI-84 Plus or the TI-83 Plus graphing calculator.
ALGEBRA I (2 semesters)
Algebra I reviews the basic terminology, notation, concepts, skills and applications of arithmetic. Building on operations with positive and negative numbers and zero, Algebra I presents properties of polynomials and rational numbers and applies them to the solution of linear and quadratic equations and to inequalities in one and two variables. Graphing is included at appropriate points and verbal problems are integrated with each appropriate topic area.
ALGEBRA I HONORS/GEOMETRY HONORS (2 semesters) (Prerequisite: Placement based on a satisfactory grade on Duchesne's Algebra I Challenge Test covering the basic skills of Algebra I and on the quantitative, mathematics and reading sections of Duchesne's entrance examination. Eighth grade mathematics teacher recommendations are also considered.)
This course includes topics in algebraic fractions and their application, linear equations and systems, graphing, functions and inequalities with an emphasis on problem solving with each appropriate topic area. The geometry portion of the course includes all topics which are prerequisites for subsequent mathematics courses. See Geometry course description below. Successful completion of this course Freshman year and teacher recommendation will enable a student to enroll in Algebra II Honors.
GEOMETRY(2 semesters) (Prerequisite: Algebra I) Geometry stresses the logical development of analytic and synthetic thought processes, reinforcing the logical steps in thinking required for Algebra I. Proof and inquiry methods of reasoning are emphasized throughout the year. The course includes the study of the properties of both two-and three-dimensional figures including the study of area, volume, and figures as located in the coordinate plane and in space. Transformations and symmetries are studied as they relate to art. Emphasis is given to congruent, similar and right triangles and to circles. Algebraic applications are related to all topics. Computer software is used as a dynamic tool for exploring various topics.
ALGEBRA II/ALGEBRA II HONORS (2 semesters) (Prerequisites for Algebra II: Algebra I and Geometry: the mathematics department determines placement in course sections. Prerequisites for Algebra II Honors: satisfactory work in Algebra I Honors/Geometry Honors.
Algebra II and Algebra II Honors review basic terminology, notation, skills in operations with positive and negative numbers and zero, the solution to polynomial equations and inequalities in one and two variables, verbal problems and graphing of linear, quadratic and other functions. These classes develop the complex number system, its properties and operations. The classes also discuss the distinctions between relations and functions, logarithmic and exponential functions, conic sections and probability.
PRECALCULUS/PRECALCULUS HONORS (2 semesters) (Prerequisites for Precalculus Honors: satisfactory work in Algebra II Honors or in Algebra IIA and department recommendation. Prerequisites for non-honors Precalculus: satisfactory work in Algebra II and department recommendation.)
These courses provide students with the skills and concepts necessary for the study of Calculus through its introduction of elementary concepts from Calculus, as well as its conceptual development of circular, trigonometric and inverse functions, and varied problem-solving skills for right, oblique and obtuse triangles. Precalculus and Precalculus Honors includes detailed work with polynomial, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions plus sequences, probability and matrices. Emphasis is on technology, real-life applications and problem solving. Additional topics may include parametric equations and polar coordinates.
TRIGONOMETRY WITH DISCRETE TOPICS (1 semester) (Prerequisite: Algebra II)
This course explores the elementary trigonometric functions for triangles and circles. Trigonometry includes graphing trigonometric functions, identities and working with vectors and inverse functions. The study of trigonometric proofs and word problems stresses logical problem solving.
STATISTICS (1 semester) (Prerequisite: Algebra II and Department permission)
This course consists of introductory concepts of statistics and probability. Emphasis is placed on understanding and interpreting statistical calculations and results. The use of TI-83 Plus or TI-84 Plus calculators and Microsoft EXCEL are used for statistical calculations. Attention is also given to interpreting statistical information presented in various media.
CALCULUS I AND II (2 semesters) (Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of Precalculus or Precalculus Honors and department recommendation.)
This course includes the study of differentiation and integration of a variety of functions. Students will explore these concepts numerically, graphically and analytically and use them for applications in a variety of fields from economics to physics.
Upon successful completion of the course, the student can obtain credit from Creighton University and/or the Advanced Placement exam. This course carries a fee of
$110* per semester for Creighton credit and registration at the beginning of each semester. Students must comply with Creighton policies for registration or withdrawal. If the student elects to take the AP exam, there is also a fee.
CALCULUS III AND IV (2 semesters) (Prerequisite: Calculus 2)
These two courses are taken off campus. The curriculum for each is determined by the school the student attends.
*This fee is set by Creighton and is subject to change. |
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