Mathematics Department

Pre-Algebra & Math Foundations- Teacher- Katy Garner

Prerequisite: None

This class is designed to help students gain a better understanding of the concepts needed for success in Algebra and to have more confidence in personal mathematical skills. Topics covered include operations with integers and fractions, solving equations, factors, exponents, ratios, proportions, percentages, linear functions and their graphs. This course is considered a remedial course and cannot be used as one of the mathematics courses required for graduation. Throughout the course, group work, check, and correct will help the student build the skills and the confidence to succeed. This course follows the guidelines for Pre-Algebra as set by the SDA Curriculum Guide for Mathematics.

Algebra 1- Teacher- Demetrio Villar

Algebra 1: Sufficient score on the Algebra 1 Placement Test or with instructor’s approval

Algebra 1 is a required course for high school graduation. During the school year, the student will be introduced to the basic fundamentals of Algebra and the algebraic approach to higher mathematics. Using logical approaches with hands on methods, the student will gain a deeper understanding of numbers and their properties. In addition, the student will learn to read and process mathematically. Topics covered in this course include properties of real numbers, simple probability and odds, solving and graphing linear equations and functions, writing linear equations, solving and graphing linear inequalities, systems of linear equations, exponents, polynomials, simplifying radicals and solving simple quadratics. This course follows the guidelines for Algebra 1 as set by the SDA Curriculum Guide for Mathematics.

Geometry- Teacher- Trent Russell

Students will study segment relationships, angle relationships, logic and the proof process, relationships in parallel and perpendicular lines, triangle relationships, quadrilaterals, proportions and similarity, basic trigonometry, circles, area, volume, and transformations. Students will also get hands on projects and construction labs with an emphasis on creative thinking.

Algebra 2- Teacher- Demetrio Villar

Prerequisite: C- or higher in Algebra I or with permission from instructor

This course is the next step after Algebra 1 and Geometry. This course introduces material that builds on the knowledge gained and will show the student more practical applications between algebra and real life. The student will learn these concepts through graphing, solving for variables, using matrices, and group work. Although the course may be challenging, the goal is to help the student learn to think logically and improve problem solving skills. It is my hope and aim that the student will begin to think of the process of obtaining a correct answer. This process is, at the core, much more valuable in learning mathematics. Through group discussions and activities, mathematical ideas will be opened up in a new way. Topics covered in this course include equations and inequalities, linear equations and functions, system of linear equations and inequalities, various methods of solving systems using quadratic functions, factoring, completing the square, complex numbers, polynomials, rational exponents and roots, trigonometry, vectors, and conic sections. This course follows the guidelines for Algebra 2 as set by the SDA Academic Standards for Mathematics.

Pre-Calculus- Teacher- Bryce Sampsel

Prerequisite: B or better in Algebra 2 or instructor’s permission

Precalculus is a year-long upper division mathematics course typically taken during a student’s Junior or Senior year. The major topics covered during the year are advanced functions, trigonometry, a variety of graphing systems, and limits with the purpose of preparing a student to take calculus the following year.

AP Calculus- Teacher- Demetrio Villar

Prerequisites: PreCalculus with a final grade of B- or better or with permission from instructor

This is an advanced course meant for the advanced mathematics student. AP Calculus AB incorporates knowledge gained in all previous mathematics courses in the study of limits, differentiation, applications of derivatives, Newton's Method, differentials, integration, applications of integrals, numerical integration, logarithmic, exponential and other transcendental functions, and more. During the school year, the student will be introduced to many new ideas through real-life examples, group work, use of technology and so forth. The knowledge gained through this course can also be applied in further studies in areas such as computer science, physics, chemistry, and many others. Learning to think in a mathematical way is one of the most important skills one can take from this class. There will be several instances where group activities will be helpful and vital in understanding problems. Group discussions facilitate working out ideas in Calculus. This class is designed for students to be sufficiently prepared for the AP exam at the end of the year. This course follows the guidelines for Calculus as set by the SDA Academic Standards for Mathematics.

Financial Algebra- Teacher- Rochelle White

This class focuses on real-life applications of mathematical concepts with a focus on personal finance and business in the Christian context. Students will study budgeting, wages, taxes, investments, loans, insurance, saving and checking accounts, vehicle and housing costs, and basic accounting principles.