Mathematics

Requirements

Three credits--grade 9
Six additional credits beyond grade 9 for graduation


Math Department Courses

*AP Computer Science may receive credit as a fourth year math if taken concurrent with another math class.

Students enrolling in mathematics have a series of options. This chart outlines the potential paths in mathematics that are open to them as they progress through high school. (Please note that these paths are not prescribed or required. Students may move between paths as their skills in math emerge.) Placement is made taking into consideration student academic goals, middle school grades and course work, placement test scores, parent recommendations and the spring AHA placement exam.

Department Philosophy

As mathematics instructors, we strive to provide a learning environment that promotes academic excellence and recognizes each student’s needs and capabilities in mathematics. As a result, students will acquire mathematical skills and improve basic reasoning processes to face challenges and solve problems.

We work with the guidance counselors to provide academic and career counseling for students, update and improve our curriculum, and educate ourselves in current research and methodology.

General Information

The Academy of Holy Angels offers a comprehensive program in mathematics. Because there is a great need for critical, quantitative thinking and problem solving ability in our highly technological society, the graduation requirement is nine trimesters. Most colleges require Intermediate Algebra, Geometry and Algebra II for admission.

The mathematics curriculum is not broken into rigid tracks, but is a flexible plan based upon students’ needs and abilities. As students progress, their performance is regularly evaluated by their teachers, parents or guardians and the students themselves. On the basis of this regular evaluation, students may elect to take a math course more appropriate to individual ability. In order to continue the next trimester, a student must pass the current trimester in that course. Students in “Advanced” courses or AP Calculus or AP Statistics must earn at least a C each trimester to continue in the course.

Graphing calculators and computers will be used in courses for which they are appropriate. The TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84 or the TI-84 Plus graphing calculator is required for courses using the graphing calculator. These models are used for instruction, and their operation is explained in classes using them.

Additional mathematics options

Students interested in other applications of mathematics may consider the courses listed below:

  • Living on Your Own
  • Fine Arts: Theater Design and Technical Production, Computer Art
  • Technology: All courses
  • Science: All courses

The STEM diploma description can be found in Special Academic Programs.


Intermediate Algebra

3 credits

Grade Level: 9, 10

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I (Part A) in eighth grade and recommended score of 70 percent (National Percentile) or higher on high school placement test.

This course is intended for students who have been successful in eighth grade algebra or geometry. It is a review of the basic principles of algebra and an extension of these as they apply to new topics.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Demonstrate, apply and extend skills involving introductory algebraic concepts and manipulations.
  • Identify and analyze common functions (linear, quadratic, exponential), use function operations and transformations.
  • Recognize and apply appropriate methods to solve systems of linear equations and inequalities.
  • Use the graphing calculator to analyze functions and solve problems.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities. 

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84 or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


Advanced Intermediate Algebra

3 credits

Grade Level: 9

Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Algebra I (Part A) in eighth grade and recommended score of 85 percent (National Percentile) or higher on high school placement test. A reading score of 75 percent (National Percentile) or higher is also recommended

This rigorous course is intended for the above-average serious student who is motivated, responsible and able to learn at a fast pace.

This is the same course as Intermediate Algebra but moves faster and covers material in more depth with an emphasis on problem solving and concept mastery.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Demonstrate, apply and extend skills involving introductory algebraic concepts and manipulations.
  • Identify and analyze common functions (linear, quadratic,m exponential), use function operations and transformations.
  • Recognize and apply appropriate methods to solve systems of linear equations and inequalities.
  • Use the graphing calculator to analyze functions and solve problems.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

 TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84 or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.


Intermediate Algebra Concepts

3 credits

Grade Level: 9

Prerequisite: Completion of eighth-grade algebra

This course is intended for students who would benefit from smaller class sizes and more one-to-one teacher attention to master mathematical/algebraic concepts. It is a review of the basic principles of algebra and an extension of these as they apply to new topics. 

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Apply introductory algebraic concepts.
  • Identify and analyze common functions (linear, quadratic, exponential) and use function operations.
  • Use the graphing calculator to analyze functions and solve problems.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84 or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


Geometry

3 credits

Grade Level:  10

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Intermediate Algebra

This course introduces the concepts of plane, solid and coordinate geometry. Logical reasoning and critical thinking are emphasized through connections to algebra and real life applications. Formal proof and geometric probability are introduced.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Explain and apply geometric concepts.
  • Apply inductive and deductive reasoning skills to solve problems.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of strategies to solve problems by using logical reasoning and critical thinking abilities.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84 or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


Advanced Geometry

3 credits

Grade Level: 9, 10

Prerequisite:    Ninth grade: recommended 90 percent or higher on high school placement test; completion of Algebra I; pass the Academy of Holy Angels algebra proficiency examination and department recommendation. Tenth grade: Successful completion of Advanced Intermediate Algebra and department approval

This rigorous course is intended for highly interested, mature, responsible and serious students who are able to learn at a fast pace. Students are expected to have mastered and be able to use skills from Algebra I. This course may be taken concurrently with Advanced Algebra II.

This course is the same as Geometry, but it covers material in greater depth and extensively uses formal proof to develop logical reasoning skills. Trigonometry is introduced.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Understand and apply introductory geometric concepts.
  • Apply inductive and deductive reasoning skills to solve problems.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of strategies to solve problems using logical reasoning and critical thinking abilities.
  • Develop and apply strategies for completing formal proofs.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84 or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


Accelerated Advanced Geometry/ Algebra II

3 credits

Grade Level: 9, 10

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Advanced Intermediate Algebra and department recommendation

This rigorous course is intended for mature, responsible, serious students who have a high interest in mathematics and are able to learn at a very fast pace. Students are expected to have mastered and be able to use skills from Advanced Intermediate Algebra.

This course combines key concepts from Advanced Geometry and Advanced Algebra II and will prepare students for Advanced Pre-Calculus. Formal proof is used to develop logical reasoning skills. Trigonometry is introduced.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Understand and apply introductory geometric concepts.
  • Apply inductive and deductive reasoning skills to solve problems.
  • Develop and apply strategies for completing formal proofs.
  • Analyze patterns using explicitly defined and recursively defined functions.
  • Analyze relations and functions and use various representations for them.
  • Analyze functions of one variable by investigating rates of change, intercepts, zeros, asymptotes, and local and global behavior.
  • Develop and apply skills in transformations of functions.
  • Analyze the properties of functions, including exponential, polynomial, rational, logarithmic, and periodic functions.
  • Interpret representations of functions of two variables.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of strategies to solve problems using logical reasoning and critical thinking abilities.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84 or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required. 

 


Geometry Concepts

3 credits

Grade Level: 10

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Intermediate Algebra Concepts

This course is intended for students who would benefit from smaller class sizes and more one-to-one teacher attention to master mathematical concepts.

This course offers an integrated view of geometry with algebra, science, social studies and art. Real world applications are emphasized. 

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Understand and apply introductory geometric concepts.
  • Use and apply inductive and deductive reasoning and their applications.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of strategies to solve problems using logical reasoning and critical thinking abilities.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


Algebra II

3 credits

Grade Level: 10, 11, 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Intermediate Algebra and Geometry

This course is a review of concepts presented in Intermediate Algebra and an extension of these as they apply to new topics. Statistics is introduced throughout the year.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Analyze patterns using explicitly defined and recursively defined functions.
  • Analyze relations and functions and use various representations for them.
  • Analyze functions of one variable by investigating rates of change, intercepts, zeros, asymptotes, and local and global behavior.
  • Develop and apply skills in transformations of functions.
  • Analyze the properties of functions, including exponential, polynomial, rational, logarithmic, and periodic functions.
  • Interpret representations of functions of two variables.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of strategies to solve problems using logical reasoning and critical thinking abilities.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


Advanced Algebra II

3 credits

Grade Level: 9, 10, 11

Prerequisite:   Ninth grade: Very high interest in mathematics. Successful completion of Advanced Intermediate Algebra or 8th grade Algebra A and B, Advanced Geometry, and recommended score of 90 percent (national percentile) on high school placement test; pass the Academy of Holy Angels algebra and geometry proficiency examinations and department recommendation.

Tenth and Eleventh Grade: Successful completion of Advanced Intermediate Algebra, Advanced Geometry, and department recommendation.

This rigorous course is the same as Algebra II except that it covers material in more depth and at a faster pace. Trimester 3 includes trigonometry. This course may be taken concurrently with Advanced Geometry.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Analyze patterns using explicitly defined and recursively defined functions.
  • Analyze relations and functions and use various representations for them.
  • Analyze functions of one variable by investigating rates of change, intercepts, zeros, asymptotes, and local and global behavior.
  • Develop and apply skills in transformations of functions.
  • Analyze the properties of functions, including exponential, polynomial, rational, logarithmic, and periodic functions.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of strategies to solve problems using logical reasoning and critical thinking abilities.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required. 

 


Algebra II Concepts

3 credits

Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Intermediate Algebra Concepts and Geometry Concepts

This course is intended for students who would benefit from smaller class sizes and more one-to-one teacher attention to master mathematical concepts. 

This course will review and extend topics from Intermediate Algebra Concepts. Applications of algebra will be emphasized.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Use the graphing calculator to analyze and solve problems.
  • Develop and apply skills in algebraic manipulations and computations.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Interpret representations of functions of one and two variables.
  • Analyze functions of one variable by investigating rates of change, intercepts, zeros.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


Pre-Calculus

3 credits

Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II or Advanced Algebra II and department recommendation

This is a course in advanced mathematics designed for college-bound students in mathematics or science related fields. It will review and extend topics from Algebra II. Functions, trigonometry and statistics are studied as well.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Prepare for calculus and college mathematics.
  • Recognize various types of functions (including polynomial, rational, radical, exponential and logarithmic), analyze their behavior, and use properties of these functions to solve equations and application problems.
  • Define trigonometric functions, examine the unit circle and apply right triangle trigonometry to solve problems.
  • Learn and apply identities and formulas involving trigonometric functions.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


Advanced Pre-Calculus

3 credits

Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Advanced Algebra II or Accelerated Advanced Geometry/Algebra II and department recommendation

This is a rigorous course in advanced mathematics designed for students college-bound for math- or science-oriented fields. This course will prepare students for AP Calculus. It will review and extend topics from Advanced Algebra II and may be taken concurrently with AP Statistics.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Apply concepts of basic theory of mathematics, analytic geometry, trigonometry, functions and conic sections to solve problems.
  • Recognize various types of functions (including polynomial, rational, radical, exponential and logarithmic), analyze their behavior, and use properties of these functions to solve equations and application problems.
  • Define trigonometric functions, examine the unit circle and apply right triangle trigonometry to solve problems.
  • Learn and apply identities and formulas involving trigonometric functions.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Prepare for AP Calculus or college mathematics
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required. 

 


Introduction to Calculus

Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-Calculus or Advanced Pre-Calculus and department recommendation

This class is similar to the first half of a college calculus course.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Develop and apply skills in calculus, including limits, derivatives and their application.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


AP Calculus AB

3 credits

Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Advanced Pre-Calculus and department recommendation.

This rigorous course involves a discussion of limits, derivatives, the integral and their applications.

Students enrolled in AP Calculus will prepare for and take the AP exam in May. Any waivers must be approved by the instructor and the principal.

This course may be taken for college credit through St. Mary’s University PACC program. Since this is an AP course, grades are weighted as an “Advanced” course.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Prepare for the AP Calculus AB examination in May.
  • Develop and apply skills in function analysis, limits, differentiation, integration and their applications.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Use the graphing calculator to analyze and solve problems.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


AP Statistics

3 credits

Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Advanced Algebra II or Algebra II and department recommendation. This course may be taken concurrently with any Pre-Calculus or Calculus class.

This rigorous course explores data by observing patterns and departures from patterns. Students will develop skills in anticipating patterns, applying appropriate statistical methods, using probabilities, planning statistical studies and using statistical inference.

Students enrolled in AP Statistics will prepare for and take the AP exam in May. Any waivers must be approved by the instructor and the principal.

May be taken for college credit through St. Mary’s University PACC program. This is an AP course, and grades are weighted as “Advanced”.

 

Learner Outcomes

 

Students will:

  • Prepare for the AP Statistics examination in May.
  • Select methods for collecting and analyzing data.
  • Describe patterns, trends, associations, and relationships in data.
  • Use probability and simulation to describe probability distributions and define uncertainty in statistical inference.
  • Use statistical reasoning to draw appropriate conclusions and justify claims.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


Survey of Mathematics

3 credits

Grade Level: 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II Concepts and department recommendation

This course is designed for students who need extra time to master mathematical concepts and desire practical application of basic mathematics, geometry and algebra skills. Students will be expected to complete daily homework. Applications of mathematics in the arts, sciences, and business are examined. This course does not qualify for NCAA credit.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Develop and apply skills in basic math, algebra and geometry skills.
  • Use the graphing calculator to analyze and solve problems.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required.

 


Problem Solving & Statistics

3 credits

Grade Level: 11, 12

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II or Pre-Calculus and department recommendation

For students who have successfully completed Algebra II or Pre-Calculus and are seeking additional mathematical studies, this course explores problem solving strategies which prepares them to meet challenges and gain confidence. Data sets and statistics are explored in the context of daily living.

Learner Outcomes

Students will:

  • Select and utilize a variety of problem-solving strategies to solve problems.
  • Select methods for collecting and analyzing data.
  • Describe patterns, trends, associations, and relationships in data.
  • Use probability and simulation to describe probability distributions and define uncertainty in statistical inference.
  • Use statistical reasoning to draw appropriate conclusions and justify claims.
  • Apply and adapt a variety of appropriate strategies to solve problems.
  • Build self-confidence in mathematical abilities.

TI-83, TI-83 Plus, TI-84, or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator required. 

 


* AP Computer Science

3 credits  (AP Computer Science may receive credit as a fourth year Math if taken concurrent with another Math class).

Grade Levels: 11, 12

Prerequisites: Algebra II

Intro to Computer Science is recommended but not required.

The Computer Science course is college level rigor and focuses on programming in the Java language as a way to explore basic concepts in computer science and advanced problem solving. The course also emphasizes the design issues that make programs understandable, adaptable, and, when appropriate, reus- able.

Students enrolled in AP classes will prepare for and take the AP exam in May. Any waivers must be approved by the instructor and the principal.

Learner Outcomes:

Students will:

  • Explore object oriented programming in the Java language.
  • Write computer programs using Java.
  • Practice stepwise refinement in problem solving.
  • Read and interpret complex programs.
  • Develop and implement algorithms in code.