Mathematics

Teaching Staff

Nicole Bernabe
Deborah Drake
Adria Froehlich
Susan Hinds
Edward Kocot, Department Coordinator
Donna Malloy
Jenna Messina

The mathematics program consists of three primary levels of study: Honors, College Preparatory and General Mathematics. The Honors level courses are very rigorous and challenging, and they integrate separate branches of mathematics through a spiral arrangement of concepts treating mathematics as a complete area of study. The College Preparatory courses cover all appropriate topics at a somewhat less rigorous pace while preparing students for future studies as well as the High School Proficiency Examination. The General Mathematics sequence prepares students for non-college careers as well as for the required High School Proficiency Examination given during the Junior year. All students are required to take three years of mathematics at the high school level.

Course Offerings

Foundations of Mathematics (5 credits)
This course presents the fundamental ideas and applications of arithmetic and an introductory approach to basic topics of algebra and geometry. The approach to the subject is varied through the use of calculators and analysis of problems. Special attention is also given to preparing students for the High School Proficiency Examination to be taken prior to graduation.

Consumer Mathematics (5 credits)
This course is offered for the below average student who is in need of additional reinforcement in this field. Problem-solving techniques and applications developed in Pre-Algebra will continue to be reinforced along with diagnosed computational weaknesses. Calculator and computer activities will be consistently utilized in addressing real-life applications of those topics and concepts studied. Some algebraic, geometric and statistical topics will be introduced throughout the course as well as those topics to be assesses on the High School Proficiency Examination.

Pre-Algebra (5 credits)
This course is designed for students who feel that more preparation is necessary before assuming the responsibility of a full-year algebra course. it can also serve as another year in the basic mathematics sequence.

Algebra I - 721 (5 credits)
This course covers the concepts of algebra from number theory and linear equations through systems of equations in two variables, rational/irrational expressions, inequalities, functions, quadratic functions and problem-solving skills. Along with strong verbal skills, the student should have a firm foundation in the arithmetic skill using integers, fractions, and decimals. This course is for the college-bound student with appropriate mathematical skills and a minimum C average in previous mathematics studies.

Algebra I - 725 (5 credits)
This course covers the concepts of algebra from number theory and linear equations through systems of equations in two variables, rational/irrational expressions, inequalities, functions, quadratic functions and problem-solving skills, but at a slower pace than the 721 course. This course is for the student who is still in need of developing some additional computational skills with integers, fractions and decimals while completing the Algebra I program.

Geometry - 731 (5 credits)
This course covers the basics of plane geometry. Algebraic skills are reinforced through geometric applications and problem-solving. There is a heavy emphasis on proofs and logical thinking. This course is for the college-bound student who is strong in algebraic skills with a C average in Algebra I being a minimum requirement.

Geometry - 735 (5 credits)
This is a college preparation course that also covers the basics of plane geometry, but at a slower pace. Algebraic concepts continue to be reinforced through geometric applications and problem-solving.

Geometry Honors - 730 (5 credits)
In addition to the usual geometry curriculum, the Honors course will provide a more rigorous approach to proofs and applications. In this course, additional advanced topics are introduced. Teacher recommendation and a B average in Algebra I are advisable.

Algebra II and Trigonometry - 741 (5 credits)
This is a college preparatory course that covers Algebra II and Trigonometry topics as a means of preparing students for Pre-Calculus or Probability and Statistics. Although not an Honors level course, a serious commitment to studying mathematics is required. A minimum of a C average in Algebra I and Geometry is advised.

Algebra II and Trigonometry - 745 (5 credits)
This is a somewhat less rigorous course that covers the required topics at a pace more suitable for the non-mathematical, college-bound student. This course completes the typical three-year mathematics requirement while preparing students for their college studies. This course is not recommended for students planning to take Pre-Calculus the following year.

Algebra II and Trigonometry Honors - 740 (5 credits)
A rigorous college preparatory course designed to prepare students for a math or science vocation as well as the Pre-Calculus and AP Calculus courses that follow. Algebra II topics are covered during the first three marking periods with Trigonometry being the primary focus during the fourth marking periods. A strong Algebra I and Geometry background is required with Algebra II and Trigonometry topics being covered at a rigorous pace and additional theoretical depth.

Pre-Calculus - 751 (5 credits)
The goal of Pre-Calculus is to provide for the more serious mathematics student an in-depth coverage of advanced concepts of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry in preparation for the study of Calculus. The content includes such topics as functions, number systems, logic, analytic geometry, probability, limits and introduction to Calculus. A highly successful completion of Algebra II and Trigonometry is recommended as a prerequisite.

Pre-Calculus Honors - 750 (5 credits)
This course is designed for the student who is adept in algebra and geometry skills and wishes to pursue a mathematics-related vocation. The course focuses on an in-depth study in the areas of logic, equations and systems of equations, complex number system, functions, trigonometry, elementary Calculus, and probability and statistics. Teacher recommendation and a B average are advisable.

Calculus - 761 (5 credits)
This course is offered to the student who desires to take calculus in high school as preparation for college. The course follows a first year calculus syllabus. Included are discussion of limits, logarithmic and exponential functions, derivatives and integrals and applications of both. The student is expected to have successfully completed a pre-calculus as a prerequisite.

AP Calculus - 760 (5 credits)
This course follows a first-year Calculus syllabus with a curriculum provided by the Educational Testing Service for possible advanced placement. Included are discussions of derivatives, integrals, hyperbolic functions, infinite series, applications of integration, conic sections, and polar coordinates. Students are encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Test which is offered in May. It is highly recommended that the student successfully complete Pre-Calculus Honors before taking this course. Teacher recommendation and a B average are advisable.

Math Seminar - 763 (5 credits)
The Math Seminar is designed for the senior student who has completed three years of high school math through Algebra II/Trigonometry and does not wish to be without a math course during his/her senior year. It will provide them the opportunity to further improve their math skills in preparation for college studies by addressing topics such as Trigonometry, Matrices, Probability and Statistics as well as additional appropriate topics.

AP Computer Mathematics - 770 (5 credits)
This is a mathematics course designed to serve as a foundation course for computer science majors, a vehicle for topics in higher mathematics, and an enrichment course for those who will major in other disciplines that require significant involvement with computers. An emphasis will be placed on modularly designed programs in the C++ language, efficient use of date types and structures, and applications of file manipulation. Successful completion of Computer Mathematics and two years of college preparatory mathematics is recommended.

Computer Mathematics - 771 (5 credits)
This course is an introduction to programming methodology utilizing visual BASIC as the core language. Program design and techniques will be developed through various activities and projects. Each student will gain experience in the use of the personal computer, supplemented by special activities incorporating the computer environment. Successful completion of two years of college preparatory mathematics is recommended.

General Mathematics and Math Improvement - 170 (5 credits)
These are full-year courses providing mathematics credit toward graduation for identified students in grades 9-12. They utilize a diagnostic-prescriptive approach to the development of computational skills. Registration in the course requires the recommendation and approval of the guidance counselor or Child Study Team.