Math

List of 11 frequently asked questions.

• Fundamentals of Algebra

  This small, highly personalized class is designed for students who need extra support mastering pre-algebra and middle school math concepts to provide a solid foundation for future success in Algebra I and other high school math classes.

• Algebra I

  This highly differentiated course provides an in-depth exploration of algebra and allows all students to work at the edge of their math knowledge. Topics include rates and ratios, algebraic expressions, linear equations, linear functions, systems of equations, quadratics, and exponents and radicals. Students develop lateral thinking and in-depth problem-solving skills and learn to analyze the reasons behind all the math they do.

  
  

  Most students will learn and show mastery of regular Algebra I concepts and the course will appear as “Algebra I” on their transcripts. Some students will learn and show mastery of additional, advanced Algebra I concepts; in that case, the course will appear as “Algebra I Advanced” on their transcripts.

• Geometry

  Prerequisite(s): Algebra I
  
  

  This course is an introduction to Euclidean geometry. There is an emphasis on developing a student’s understanding of mathematical theory and ability to write clear, logical arguments based on definitions, postulates, and theorems.

• Geometry Advanced

  Prerequisite(s): Algebra I and Department Approval

  
  This course covers the same content as Geometry with more theory and greater emphasis on formal proofs.
  

• Algebra II

  Prerequisite(s): Geometry
  
  

  This course focuses on developing systematic understanding of functions through graphing, representing and solving functions, as well as deepening algebraic manipulation skills. Topics include transformations, complex numbers, polynomials, rational equations, and exponential and logarithmic functions. Students grow in their capacity to puzzle through unfamiliar problems.

• Algebra II Advanced

  Prerequisite(s): Geometry Advanced or (Geometry and Department Approval) or (Algebra I with concurrent enrollment in Geometry and Department Approval)

  
  

  This course covers the same content as Algebra II, but more theory and open-ended problem solving will be emphasized.

• Precalculus

  Prerequisite(s): Algebra II (C or higher) 

  
  This course is an in-depth treatment of the mathematics essential to Calculus. Topics include the Cartesian plane, functions; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, inverse, circular and trigonometric functions; solving inequalities and systems of equations. Additional topics may include matrices, determinants and vectors. A strong focus on real-world problems solving in relation to the various mathematical topics covered will also be present.
  
  This course is open only to twelfth grade or to younger students who do not plan to enroll in AP Calculus at JCHS.

• Precalculus Honors

  Prerequisite(s): Algebra II Advanced or (Algebra II and Department Approval)
  
  

  Students will explore more deeply many of the algebra concepts they have already seen such as: function notation, domain/range, rational expressions, logs and exponentials, and trigonometry while also learning new topics like matrices, sequences/series, conic sections, polar/parametric equations, and limits. A very strong emphasis will be placed on using the tools of Algebra I & II and Geometry to untangle complex problems so that students are well prepared for the AP Calculus curriculum. This course will also directly practice the math used in AP Chemistry, AP Biology, and AP Physics.

• AP Calculus, AB

  Prerequisite(s): Precalculus Honors

  
  This course is an introduction to differentiation and integration of functions of a single variable. Topics include functions, limits, continuity, differentiation, related rates, min-max problems, graphing, integration and applications. 
  
  Please Note: AP courses may require additional meeting times throughout the year.
  

• AP Calculus, BC

  Prerequisite(s): AP Calculus, AB or (Precalculus Honors and Department Approval)
  
  

  This course includes AB Calculus topics at a more advanced level with the addition parametric, polar and vector functions, numerical solutions of differential equations, determining limits of convergence of infinite series, applications of integrals to more real world problems, and the using Taylor series.

  
  Please Note: AP courses may require additional meeting times throughout the year.

• Statistics

  Prerequisite(s): Algebra II

  
  Statistics is an extremely powerful and often misunderstood mathematical tool which offers many applications to analyzing the real world. This course emphasizes a real-world data, project-based approach. Students will learn how to collect, research, summarize, display, analyze, and communicate written conclusions about data. Students will have opportunities to think critically about statistical interpretations and detect flaws in statistical reasoning. Students will also learn to use spreadsheets as a computational tool.