Mathematics

Upper School Mathematics Department Philosophy

The mathematics department's goal is to prepare each student for life and for future academic training in the area of mathematics.  Mathematics is a sequential subject with each course building upon the work of the previous course, adding new concepts and approaches with a minimum reinforcement of previous knowledge.  To hone critical thinking skills, students will have to analyze and synthesize concepts in order to solve problems.  The teachers strive to create a positive, caring, and encouraging environment.

Algebra I CP

This course places emphasis on the understanding of the properties of real numbers and the application of those properties to the solution of problems.  The course covers solving equations and inequalities, operations on polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, radicals, graphs, and quadratics.

Algebra I Lyceum

This course places strong emphasis on understanding the properties of the real number system and their application to the solution of problems which can be analyzed algebraically.  Problem solving techniques are developed for various types of problems, including problems dealing with mixtures, uniform motion, percent, age, money, consecutive integers, and angle relationships.  The course covers the operations with real numbers and solving equations and inequalities.  Throughout the year, students will participate in enrichment activities and will calculate advanced problems.  Prerequisites

Geometry CP

Students are introduced to the properties and relationships of congruency, similarity, parallelism, and perpendicularity.  The course covers the properties of circles and various convex polygons.  Algebraic skills are reviewed and strengthened as they are applied to the solutions of geometric problems.

Geometry Lyceum

The student is introduced to the principles of logic, deductive reasoning, formal proof, and indirect proof.  The course covers the properties and relationships of congruency, similarity, parallelism, and perpendicularity.  Other topics covered include the properties of circles and convex polygons as well as trigonometry and coordinate geometry.  Advanced algebraic techniques are used in solving geometric problems.  Throughout the year, students will participate in enrichment activities and will calculate advanced problems.  Prerequisites

Algebra II CP

This course begins by reviewing the major concepts of Algebra I and going into further depth as each topic is covered.  The major topics include linear equations and inequalities, absolute value, polynomials, factoring, solving quadratic equations by factoring, rational expressions, fractional equations, literal equations, radicals, integral exponents, rational number exponents, complex numbers, solving quadratic equations using the quadratic formula and completing the square, graphing linear equations and inequalities, solving systems of linear equations (by graphing, substitution, and linear combination), graphing parabolas, solving quadratic systems, and inverse functions.  Word problems are included in all topics involving equation solving.  Students are introduced to inverse and logarithmic relations. 

Algebra II Lyceum

In this course, it is assumed that students are acquainted with the language of algebra, have an understanding of the structure of number systems, and can manipulate algebraic expressions.  Students will be reintroduced to the algebraic properties of the real number system, solve first and second degree equations and inequalities, and begin working with graphing calculators.  During the second semester, students work with complex numbers, functions, and logarithms, and begin a study of trigonometric functions. Sequences, series, probability and matrices may be introduced.  Throughout the year, students will participate in enrichment activities and will calculate advanced problems.  Prerequisites

Discrete Math CP

Use of the textbook in conjunction with a calculator will guide students to an understanding of equations and inequalities; polynomials, factoring, and rational expressions; radicals; imaginary and complex numbers; quadratic equations; relations and functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; circles; circular functions; trigonometric identities; graphs of trigonometric functions; trigonometric equations; and solutions of right and oblique triangles.

Pre-Calculus Lyceum

Students study the functions, trigonometry and algebra necessary for the study of calculus.  Topics include circular functions, trigonometric identities, graphs of trigonometric functions, particular and general solutions of trigonometric equations, solutions of right and oblique triangles, polynomial functions, and exponential and logarithmic functions.  Throughout the year, students will participate in enrichment activities and will calculate advanced problems.  Prerequisites

Calculus Lyceum

The purpose of this course is to provide the students with the understanding of the concepts of calculus and experience with its methods and applications.  Topics will include elementary functions, limits and continuity, derivatives, applications of derivatives, integrals, applications of integrals, logarithmic and exponential functions, trigonometric functions, and techniques of integration.  Prerequisites

AP Calculus AB

In this course, students learn to understand the concept of calculus and are provided experience with its methods and applications.  Topics include elementary functions, limits and continuity; derivatives, applications of derivatives; integrals, applications of integrals, logarithmic and exponential functions, trigonometric functions, and techniques of integration.  Graphing calculators are required and will be used regularly.  This material is explored extensively and word problem applications, in particular, are covered at an accelerated pace.  Prerequisites

AP Calculus BC

In addition to expanding on the topics covered in Calculus AB, sequences and series, statistics, probability, vectors and matrices are covered.  Graphing calculators are required and used regularly.    Prerequisites

Probability and Statistics CP

This course includes topics on probability, descriptive statistics, and regression analysis.  Graphing calculators are required.  Enrollment limited to juniors and seniors

AP Statistics

This course deals with four major themes: exploratory data analysis, planning a study, probability, and statistical inference.  Students incorporate current technology and use graphing calculators and statistical software to analyze real world problems.  Prerequisites