Math

Through mathematics at JCHS, students explore the connections that mathematics have to other academic disciplines and to problems from the real world.

The Math Department’s mission is to see each student develop the ability to: 

  • Interpret data using mathematical modeling in order to predict real world phenomena
  • Work with graphical, algebraic, and numerical representations of a mathematical concept and understand the connections between those representations
  • Communicate mathematics both orally and in well-written sentences
  • Assess the reasonableness of numeric solutions to problems using estimation techniques
  • Integrate procedural proficiency and conceptual understanding of mathematics
  • Develop mathematical thinking and reasoning skills such as the ability to make conjectures and sound arguments
  • Prepare for future mathematics courses at both the high school and college level
  • Discover the relevance and importance of mathematics in their life
  • Understand the limitations of mathematics

Click on any course name below to learn more.

Math Core Courses

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.

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.

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, problem solving, and the ability to write clear, logical arguments based on definitions, postulates, and theorems.

Prerequisite(s): Algebra I and Department Approval

This course covers the same content as Geometry with a broader range of topics and greater emphasis on formal proofs.

Prerequisite(s): Geometry

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

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.

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

This course is an in-depth treatment of the mathematics essential to Calculus with an emphasis on trigonometry. Topics include the Cartesian plane; polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, inverse, circular, and trigonometric functions; and 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. 

Please Note: This course is open only to seniors or to younger students who do not plan to enroll in AP Calculus at JCHS.

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. Students will be working on both developing a vision for untangling these problems and consistency in applying the rules of algebra. This course will also directly practice the math used in AP Chemistry, AP Biology, and AP Physics.

Prerequisite(s): Precalculus Honors or AP Precalculus

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.

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

This course includes AB Calculus topics with the addition of 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.

Prerequisite(s):  Geometry

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 both do statistical analyses on data and think critically about statistical interpretations and detect flaws in statistical reasoning. Students will also learn to use spreadsheets as a computational tool.

Please Note: Students are strongly encouraged to complete Algebra II before enrolling in Statistics.

Click here to view the complete Curriculum Map