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Mathematics Department

Math Connections I (1 credit )
This standards based, integrated course uses the algebra of first degree equations and coordinate geometry in data analysis and one-variable statistics. Topics include probability, equations and graphs, algebraic operations, and an introduction to functions. Problem solving, reasoning, and writing are practiced through completion of math portfolios. Responsibility and productivity are measured through assignment completion and organization of materials. Extensive support is provided for student organization and study skills. Graphing calculator technology is learned and applied. While a number of these Tl-83+ calculators are available for use during class, students are encouraged to purchase their own.

Math Connections II (1 credit)
As a continuation of Math Connections I, this standards based, integrated course applies the fundamentals of algebra and functions to geometric interpretations. Topics include polygons, similarity and congruence, and trigonometry, plus continuation of topics from Math Connections I, such as probability, combinatorics and functions. Math portfolios in each unit of study directly connect to the problem solving skills and concepts from that unit. Students build knowledge by regularly revisiting topics in a spiraling fashion. Continued student support is provided for organization and study skills. Increasing responsibility and productivity are expected and measured through assignment completion and organization of materials as students become more independent. The use of a graphing calculator continues; it is recommended that students have their own. Prerequisite: Math Connections I or permission of instructor

Math Connections III (1 credit)
Following through from Math Connections II, this standards based, integrated course starts with more trigonometry and properties of circles, then matrices and applications. Functions are studied and applied more in depth and at a greater degree of sophistication, including linear and quadratic, exponential and trigonometric, and inverses. Graphing calculator technology is used extensively and students should have their own. Math portfolios are used as learning and assessment tools, matching units of study. Individual organization and productivity are encouraged and required. Prerequisites: Math Connections I and II, or permission of instructor

Algebra I (1 credit)
This standards based traditional course extends the study of number systems to include positive and negative numbers, rational systems, and rational and irrational numbers. Specific topics include equations and inequalities, graphing, factoring, polynomials, exponents, linear systems, rational expressions, and their use in problem solving. Students will develop an understanding of the interrelationships of the four binary arithmetic operations and the use of the properties for these operations in forming and working with algebraic expressions, recognizing and representing number patterns, presenting graphs, and formulating and solving meaningful problems in many kinds of situations. Problem solving and reasoning are practiced through the completion of mathematics portfolios. Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation, or permission of instructor

Geometry 1 credit
This is a standards based, investigative course in Euclidian geometry. Students discover and explore geometric properties and relationships using mathematical tools. The aim is to provide the student with the skills, concepts and problem solving strategies to meet or exceed the Vermont Standards in: analyzing plane and solid figures, understanding their properties related to shape, size, location, direction and orientation, and applying similarity and congruence to shapes. Additionally, formulas and their derivations, for area and volume, and proofs of properties and relationships are included. The mathematics portfolios related to these topics are included as practice and assessment tools in problem solving, reasoning and written presentation. While a limited number of graphing calculators, protractors, compasses and rulers are available for classroom use, students are encouraged to have their own. Prerequisite: Algebra I or permission of instructor

Algebra II (1 credit)
This standards based traditional course expands and advances topics from Algebra I to include irrational and complex numbers; linear, quadratic and higher degree functions; simultaneous equations with two or more variables; and applications and extensions of these topics. Vermont Standards in this course also include understanding and using number systems; graphing numbers on the number line and in the coordinate plane; recognizing and representing basic number patterns; using functions to represent patterns; formulating and solving meaningful problems; and practice with situations using these concepts and reasoning strategies. Mathematics portfolios are included as related to topics. Graphing calculator technology is learned and applied to many problem solving situations. Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, or Math Connections II

Precalculus (1 credit)
This college preparatory, standards based, integrated mathematics course finishes the study of functions of two variables: polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric and the conic sections. Students completing this course are prepared for college level mathematics, including AP Calculus, Statistics and AP Statistics. Additional Vermont Standards included in this course are problem solving, written reports and procedures, and notation and representation, with mathematics portfolios. The mathematics portfolio process is used for examples of multiple approaches to problem solving, reasoning and applications. Teamwork, risk taking and perseverance are encouraged and enforced in applications and learning activities. Graphing calculators and related technologies are heavily used and applied to all problem solving situations. Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II with a grade of 80% or better, or permission of instructor

Statistics (1/2 credit)
This introductory course reexamines one variable statistics, including the meaning and applications of mean, mode, median and frequency, graphical representations of data, data analysis, set theory, combinatorics and probability. Following this, bi-variate data and regressions are applied to current, statistical collections from everyday observations. Students pursuing studies and/or careers in business, the social sciences, or math/science/technology fields should complete this course before graduation. Graphing calculator technology is learned and applied. Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II

AP Statistics (1/2 credit)
Students continue the study of statistics, building on knowledge of one and two variable analysis. Additional topics include norm-based referencing, normal, geometric and binomial distributions, chi square, advanced combinatorics and probability, T-tests and Z-tests, and setting up surveys and experiments. Graphing calculator and/or computers with statistical software are heavily used and applied throughout the course. Students who complete this course qualify to take the AP exam in May for college credit. Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II and Statistics

AP Calculus (1 credit)
Following the College BoardTM’s syllabus, this first year college mathematics course reviews the study of functions and applies this to limit theory, differential and integral calculus of one variable. Functions and their rates of change are explored and analyzed numerically, algebraically and graphically. A language based approach to problem solving is often applied. The use of graphing calculators, especially as applicable to calculus, is an emphasis of this course. Students who complete this course qualify to take the AP exam in May for college credit. Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Precalculus with a grade of 80% or better