MATH
DEPARTMENT

Algebra 1
This course covers topics beginning with a review of concepts covered in Pre-Algebra and progressing to a comprehensive study of Algebra I. Polynomials, factoring, algebraic fractions, functions, systems of linear equations, inequalities, rational and irrational numbers, and the quadratic formula are studied. Word problems and problem-solving strategies are emphasized throughout the course. Upon completion of this course, students will be prepared to progress to Geometry or Algebra II.
Algebra 2
The goal of the Algebra 2 course is to prepare students for future success in our ever-changing and technologically evolving society. We will investigate how, when, and where these skills can be utilized by using examples that promote critical thinking and in-depth analysis. It is not always the application of specific skills that will determine their future success, rather, it is their ability to use available resources to problem-solve and find creative answers. The emphasis in class will be on acquiring Algebra skills through inquiry learning, exploration, investigation, and collaborative learning. Lessons are student-centered and require the use of technology blended with traditional teaching styles. Students will learn to find solutions, master Algebra skills, and explore problem-solving techniques. They will develop a solid work ethic, learn to be independent, and at the same time function as a group. This will be accomplished in a small and nurturing environment with the emphasis on each student’s individual needs. Students will be exposed to various learning methods and technology to learn in the classroom and carry that ability beyond.
Quantitative Reasoning
This course develops students’ ability to apply mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills to real- world situations. Students explore topics including numerical reasoning, ratios and proportions, percentages, equations and inequalities, data analysis, probability, statistics, personal finance, and mathematical modeling. Emphasis is placed on interpreting quantitative information, evaluating data, making informed decisions, and communicating mathematical reasoning. Applications draw from everyday life, finance, business, science, and other practical contexts.
Pre-Calculus
The Pre-Calculus course focuses on the development of skills which will be necessary for students to meet the demands of an ever-changing twenty-first century. Emphasis is placed on the process of working cooperatively and developing a plan. Student engagement is a necessity as students will work collaboratively to experiment and share, write and present, problem-solve and predict. Topics include a review of previously learned materials and concepts; solving, writing and applying linear, quadratic, logarithmic and exponential functions; and study of Trigonometry, combinations, permutations and probabilities. After the use of a scientific calculator is taught to the class, it is used regularly as a tool to enrich the learning process. Additional emphasis is placed on the development of organizational skills, analysis, initiative and integrity. The course is designed to further expand the foundation it offers with the introduction of new concepts and applications, thus preparing students for further study of Mathematics.
ECE for Business and Economics
This course is offered through the University of Connecticut’s Early College Experience (ECE) program and provides eligible students with the opportunity to earn college credit. Math for Business and Economics provides an introduction to the mathematical concepts and quantitative methods used in business and economics. Topics include linear equations and inequalities, matrices, systems of linear equations, and linear programming; sets, counting principles, probability, and statistics; and the mathematics of finance. Emphasis is placed on applying these concepts to practical problems in business and economics, including modeling, decision-making, financial analysis, and optimization.
Advanced Placement Pre-calculus
AP Precalculus prepares students for other college-level mathematics and science courses. Through regular practice, students build deep mastery of modeling and functions, and they examine scenarios through multiple representations. The course framework delineates content and skills common to college precalculus courses that are foundational for careers in mathematics, physics, biology, health science, social science, and data science.
Advanced Placement Calculus AB
AP Calculus consists of a full academic year of work that is equivalent to the first semester of Calculus offered at colleges and universities. The focus of the course is to develop the student's understanding of Calculus topics and applications through a variety of methods that reaches different student learning styles, thereby preparing them for the AP Calculus AB exam. The variety of rich mathematical material in Calculus will be taught and/or demonstrated graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally. Topics will include limits, derivatives, approximations, integral and applications/models.
Pre-Algebra
This course provides students with a foundation in the mathematical skills and concepts needed for success in algebra and higher-level mathematics. Topics include operations with integers, fractions, decimals, and percentages; ratios and proportions; order of operations; variables and algebraic expressions; solving equations and inequalities; exponents; graphing; and introductory geometry. Emphasis is placed on developing computational fluency, problem-solving skills, mathematical reasoning, and confidence in applying mathematics to real-world situations.
Geometry
This course is designed to give the student a solid background in Geometry. Algebra topics are integrated into this course to provide a solid foundation for future Mathematics courses. The major topics focused on are the study of two- and three-dimensional shapes. Using theorems, definitions and postulates, the students will learn to use logical reasoning to craft or complete a deductive proof. A major goal of the course is to encourage the student to analyze and utilize diagrams appropriately. Another goal of this course is to strengthen the students’ study and organizational skills. Upon successful completion of the course, the student will demonstrate the use of inductive and deductive reasoning to draw conclusions from given information.
Statistics
This course introduces students to the basic concepts and applications of statistics. Topics include collecting and organizing data, measures of central tendency and variability, data displays, probability, sampling, interpreting graphs and charts, and basic statistical analysis. Students will use real-world data to develop their ability to analyze information, identify patterns, draw conclusions, and communicate statistical findings.
College Algebra

College Algebra is designed to strengthen the techniques learned in Algebra and Geometry in order to provide a framework for applying them to more complex mathematical situations and prepare students to have a sufficient mathematical background for college level academics.  The coursework will incorporate logic, real number systems, functions and their graphs, word problems, probabilities and statistics, individual finance, as well as many other topics relevant for college-ready students. The course will explore how to apply mathematical concepts to real-world situations in business, finance, physics, and economics.

Calculus
Calculus focuses on the development of the skills which will be necessary for students to meet the demands of an ever-changing twenty-first century. Throughout the year students finesse their ability to graph linear, quadratic, absolute value, cubic and square root functions. Additionally, students find linear, quadratic and exponential functions, find limits, find derivatives and then apply derivatives. Derivatives are then used to find relative maximums/minimums, increasing/decreasing and concavity of graphs, solve exponential and logarithmic functions. Students then find antiderivatives and definite integrals functions of several variables, find partial derivatives and double integrals.
ECE for Personal Finance
This course is offered through the University of Connecticut’s Early College Experience (ECE) program and provides eligible students with the opportunity to earn college credit. Personal Finance introduces essential topics in personal finance for individuals and entrepreneurs. The course will focus on financial literacy, personal finance topics including recordkeeping, budgeting, risk, insurance, credit, purchasing decisions, savings / investment options, income taxation of individuals and small businesses, and retirement savings.
Advanced Placement Statistics
In this course students will be introduced to how statisticians approach variation and practice representing data, describing distributions of data, and drawing conclusions based on a theoretical distribution. They will build on what they have learned by representing two-variable data, comparing distributions, describing relationships between variables, and using models to make predictions. The course will introduce study design, including the importance of randomization. Students should understand how to interpret the results of well-designed studies to draw appropriate conclusions and generalizations. The fundamentals of probability and distributions that are the basis for statistical inference will be a component of the material as well as sampling distributions, categorical data using proportions and chi-square, and quantitative data using slopes and means.

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