Lutheran High School Jacksonville, FL

ACADEMICS

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

ALGEBRA 1

PREREQUISITE: NONE

This first-year course in algebra is designed for students who have completed a pre-algebra course. Students study the structure and properties of real numbers, order of operations, polynomials, factoring, linear and quadratic functions and relations. As each new concept evolves, critical thinking, inductive and deductive reasoning and problem-solving strategies are developed. In-depth problem-solving skills are developed, and critical-thinking skills are stressed throughout the course.

GEOMETRY

PREREQUISITE: Algebra 1

This course is designed for the student who has completed Algebra I. It is a first year course in Euclidean geometry. Critical-thinking skills are stressed throughout this course, with an emphasis on applying definitions, postulates and theorems. This course develops students' ability to reason logically through problem solving and proof writing. It integrates algebraic skills and concepts while exploring the geometric relationships of congruence and similarity. Concepts of geometry involving parallel and perpendicular lines, polygons and circles are studied. Formulas are used to find areas of plane figures and volumes and surface areas of various solids. A brief introduction to right triangle trigonometry and transformations conclude the year.

ALGEBRA 2

PREREQUISITE: Algebra 1 and Geometry

This is a second year course in algebra that begins with a review of first year algebraic concepts. These topics are studied in greater depth, with application of the concepts emphasized by studying word problems. New topics introduced include, but are not limited to, the study of polynomial functions, rational functions, radical functions, exponential functions and logarithmic functions. In addition, a unit on probability and statistics is covered. Some topics of analytic geometry are also covered, including conic sections. Students use the graphing calculator to reinforce the concepts taught in class.

PRE-CALCULUS

PREREQUISITE: Algebra 2 (Instructor Approval)

This course is designed for the student who has successfully completed Algebra 2; it is the preparation for the study of calculus, and begins with a review of algebraic concepts. Many types of functions are introduced, applied and graphed, including polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic and trigonometric functions. Students apply trigonometry in solving triangles and equations as well as in verifying identities. Students explore topics in analytic geometry, particularly conic sections. The graphing calculator is used extensively in Pre-calculus.

CALCULUS

PREREQUISITE: Pre-calculus, departmental approval and a solid performance on the mathematics section of the PSAT/SAT

This course is designed for the student who has successfully completed a pre-calculus course and who wants to experience calculus at the high school level. The philosophy is that students exposed to this material will be better prepared for a first semester calculus course at the college level. Honors Calculus emphasizes theory and concepts as well as the mathematical techniques of both differential and integral calculus. A thorough review of pre-calculus at the beginning of the year allows students to build the confidence to begin their study of limits and derivatives during the first semester, and the anti-derivative and definite integral during the second semester. Applications of these concepts include problems with related rates, optimization, curve sketching, rectilinear motion and the calculations of areas of regions and volumes of solids. This course does not follow the established curriculum set by the College Board; therefore, students interested in Advanced Placement credit in calculus should elect a more appropriate course. The graphing calculator is used throughout the course.