Academics



Mathematics:

 

Algebra:

An  introduction to real numbers. The operations, functions, subsets and properties of the real numbers are studied. Topics include: Patterns in numerical sequences, algebraic operations, equations, proportional reasoning, statistics, linear functions, inequalities, absolute value, systems of equations and inequalities, exponents and exponential functions, polynomials and factoring, quadratic functions, rational functions, radicals, coordinate geometry, probability, functions and transformations.

 (Two semesters; 5 cr. hrs./sem.)

 

Geometry:

Traditional topics are covered including geometric figures, reasoning and proof, congruent triangles, proportions and similarity, right triangle trigonometry, measurement, and coordinate geometry.

 Prerequisites: Algebra I

 (Two semesters; 5 cr. hrs./sem.)

 

Algebra II W/ Trigonometry:

 This course is a second year algebra course, which enhances the topics covered in Algebra I and introduces new concepts. Students will learn how to apply algebraic concepts such as complex numbers, polynomials, conic sections, logarithms, sequences and series, matrices, and trigonometric concepts. Students will use realistic and relevant problem solving skills as well as utilizing connections from other curriculum areas.

 Prerequisites: Algebra I

 (Two semesters; 5 cr. hrs./sem.)

 

Pre-Calculus W/ Trigonometry:  

Pre-Calculus is the study of functions and related topics that are necessary for the preparation of Calculus. There will be an emphasis on function transformations, mathematical modeling, and a strong base in Trigonometry will be provided.  Students will use realistic and relevant problem solving skills as well as utilizing connections from other curriculum areas.

 Prerequisites: Algebra II and Geometry

 (Two semesters; 5 cr. hrs./sem.)

 

Intermediate Algebra:

 This is a senior course that  provides a transition from Algebra to College Algebra.. Students will  review polynomial functions  and inequalities as well as rational expressions. Moreover, students  will explore exponential functions, conic sections, and sequences/series.

 Prerequisites: Algebra II and Geometry

 

Statistics:

 This is a senior course that will cover the collection, display and analysis of data. The four major threads of the class include:  Exploration of data ... describing patterns, summarizing data, using  graphs to display data, sampling and experimentation ... planning and conducting  a study, probability ... studying random phenomena with probability and simulation statistical inference ... estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses.

 Prerequisites: Algebra II and Geometry

 

College Algebra:

This is a senior course that utilizes the importance of functions in real life applications and enhancing existing algebraic skills.  Students will be expected to identify basic functions (such as polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic) and determine the effect changes of transformations have on these functions.  There will be an emphasis on representing functions graphically, analytically and numerically.  At the conclusion of the course students should be able to communicate mathematics more effectively and have the necessary algebraic foundation to make the transition to college.

Prerequisites: Algebra II and Geometry

(One Semester; 5 cr. hrs.)

 

Trigonometry:

This is a senior course that incorporates the concepts of algebra and geometry in understanding trigonometric functions.  Students will learn the role the unit circle plays in defining trigonometric functions; how to find the amplitude, period, phase shift, and mean value of the six trigonometric functions as well as graph them; how to apply the Law of Sines and Cosines; how to verify a given identity; and how to convert between polar and rectangular coordinates.

Prerequisites: College Algebra

(One Semester; 5 cr. hrs.)

 

Advanced Placement Calculus:

Calculus introduces students to differentiation – the method used to determine the slope of a function at any point along the function; and integration – the method by which the area bounded by a function can be determined. The course requires that students have Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and pre-Calculus as preparation for the  course. Students enrolled in the course are required to take the AP Calculus  exam at the end of the second semester. Class meets five days per week.  Class time is allocated for presentations, problem solving exercises,  demonstrations, exercises requiring the use of a graphing calculator,  and computer based exercises.

 (Two semesters; 5 cr. hrs./sem.)

 

Math Courses by Year

 

Freshmen -- Algebra I and Geometry

Sophomores -- Algebra II

Juniors -- Pre-Calculus and Geometry

Seniors -- AP Calculus, College Algebra, Trigonometry, Statistics,

                Intermediate Algebra

 

 

Philosophy

 

We believe that all the students at Mount Michael should be prepared,  upon graduation, for the math concepts presented at the college level.  With this in mind, the Mathematics Department strives to introduce the  students to concepts that will be covered in college, on the ACT/SAT  exams, and how those concepts relate to the real world. We also try to help the students bridge the gap between a structured environment, like  high school, and a more unstructured environment, like college.