Mathematics

We teach mathematics as a traditional course of study, placing students at appropriate levels, regardless of age. The full range of college preparatory classes ensures readiness for advanced work in math and the sciences. Students typically study Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Pre-Calculus and Calculus.

Mathematics Course Descriptions

Connected Math

This course is for students in DV7 and DV8 who are not yet ready for Algebra 1. Continuing the scope and sequence found in most elementary programs, a review of earlier topics starts the year, with concept expansion following. Topics include a comprehensive review of fractions, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and comparing. There is an extensive introduction to geometry, including linear and planar, with topics covering rules about lines, segments, rays, angles, perimeter, basic area and surface area and a light introduction to volume. Also included is an in-depth unit on rate, ratio, proportion and percentages. Students study applications of scientific notation, fractions, exponents, geometry, rate, ratio, proportion, percent, and positive and negative numbers. This is followed by an exploration of variables, combining like terms and solving one-variable equations. These are the beginnings of algebraic techniques and skills. After the successful completion of this course, students are ready for Algebra 1.

Algebra I

This course is skills-based, with the understanding that Algebra 1 is the jump-off point for more advanced mathematics. Students study the rules of algebraic operations; the rules of powers and exponents; the distributive property and factoring, deriving, solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities; solving systems of linear equations and inequalities; and rational expressions. Additionally, radicals and absolute value skills are learned. If time permits, there is an introduction to graphing and solving quadratic equations.

Geometry

This course is inductive in nature, and uses the discovery method to arrive at geometric rules. Students study inductive reasoning, and learn about the importance of accurate definition writing when learning new material. Students also learn how to construct geometric figures using only a pencil, compass and straightedge. Once the overall introduction is complete, students learn properties about lines and angles, triangles, polygons and circles. Then students review area, surface area and volume, with a brief stop at the Pythagorean Theorem. Finally, students are introduced to similarity and its connection to proportions and algebra.

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 starts with a review of linear functions, skills and specifically, factoring. It then continues with the use of quadratic equations and their graphs. Work then begins on functions and relations, focusing on function operations, inverse functions, special functions and graphing functions. This is followed by work with exponents, including nth roots and rational exponents. Students are asked to solve and graph radical equations, in order to be ready for an in-depth look at exponential and logarithmic functions including the natural base, e, and natural logarithms. As students progress, they investigate polynomial functions, which includes solving and graphing. As time permits, students look forward to work with rational functions and other quadratic relations, including circles, ellipses, hyperbolas and conics.

Introduction to Statistics

This course is designed to be an introduction to the work that students will encounter when they take college-level statistics. Students learn to manipulate and study data; skew data; and manage data honestly so that the analysis of the data reflects what has been collected. Students will learn about lines of best fit, correlation coefficients, standard deviation and normal curves. As students become more fluent in statistics, they begin to collect and analyze real data. The comprehensive exam is a major project involving the collection and analysis of data.

Pre-calculus

This course begins with a thorough review of the final topics in algebra, including factoring polynomials and working with rational expressions. New material includes analytic geometry (conic sections), sequences and series, trigonometry, probability, and basic statistics. These topics prepare the student for an introductory Calculus course in the following year.

Calculus

Given the few number of students predicted for this course, curricular decisions will be based on student need and interest. Topics may include limits, concepts of continuity, definitions of derivatives, basic techniques of differential calculus, related rates, differentiating functions, and maxima and minima problems.

Business Math (2007-2008)

This course will be an elective for students who have completed the regular college prep courses, but are not studying Calculus. Business Math starts with a unit on personal finance, including household finance, budgeting and checkbook work. It also addresses credit, interest rates and cash management. Work then begins on small business finance, and the use of ledgers and basic accounting computer software. As the course proceeds over the course of the year, field trips and guest speakers enhance students' understanding through the first hand knowledge of a tax attorney, a CPA and other business professionals.