MATHEMATICS

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

SCIENCE	SOCIAL STUDIES	MATHEMATICS	ENGLISH	FINE ARTS

COMPUTER SCIENCE	SPANISH - FRENCH	PHYSICAL EDUCATION	ELECTIVES	COURSE LIST

	HS SCHEDULE FORM		4 YR HS PLAN

MATHEMATICS

The Mathematics Department offers a four-year sequence of courses for all students, which accommodates students with varied background and aptitude in Mathematics. Curricula for our courses are constantly being updated and designed with input from the NCTM standards, SAT’s and current research about best practices. We believe, that all students should be taught many skills, concepts and applications that go beyond the expectations of these standards. Our goals are to lead our students into higher-level critical thinking and problem solving as well as to enable our students to apply previously learned mathematical concepts and skills into new situations.

The Balboa Academy High School graduation requirement for Mathematics is three (3) years but all students are encouraged to continue with the study of Mathematics throughout their four years. We believe this will better prepare them for college and their future careers.

We believe in a variety of instructional methods, which are not only appropriate to the material being taught but also appropriate to individual learning styles. Both colleges and the business world are expecting high school students to be more technologically literate. Using graphing calculators and the PC lab our department addresses this demand. These technology tools are used for exploration and investigation as well as for the development and extension of mathematical topics. Technology provides a dynamic approach to the learning of Mathematics. A graphing calculator is an integral part of all courses beginning with mathematic courses in the junior high school.

All math courses may be used as elective credits after the minimum 3 credits needed for graduation is obtained.

Algebra 1 Grade (s) 7 - 9
Course #203 Level: Length: 1 yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics
Prerequisite (s): None, Geometry can be taken simultaneously

Major Obligations of Coursework: Daily assignments; weekly tests or quizzes

Course Description: After an in-depth study of the structure of the real number system, key topics to be covered will be solution of linear and quadratic equations, systems of equations, graphs of linear equations, and operations on rational expressions. Problem solving is stressed throughout the year, with a special focus on the mathematical modeling of real-world situations. Certain topics will involve the use of a graphing calculator. This course provides an introduction to algebraic thought, such as solving equations, operations with polynomials, graphing linear equations, factoring and practical problem solving. Students who successfully complete the algebra concepts during the first semester, will then move on to an Intro to Geometry with the intent that they cover the necessary Geometry concepts to allow them to take Algebra 2 during the next school year. This course will study the internal relationships of the real number system. Students will be required to learn properties, definitions, and terminology which describe these relationships, as well as the manipulative skills necessary to alter expressions, equations, and inequalities, as needed. Students will also learn how to represent relationships graphically. This course is for students with good arithmetic skills who are interested in post- secondary education. This course is open on approval of a math teacher. The following is recommended for placing freshmen in the course:

1. Below a “C” in 8th grade Algebra 1

2. “C” or above in 8th grade Pre-Algebra

Algebra 2 Grade (s) 10-11
Course # 204 Level: College Prep Length: 1 yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics
Prerequisite (s): Algebra 1.

Prerequisites: Minimum grade of C in Algebra 1 and Geometry or Geometry taken simultaneously

Major Obligations of Coursework: Two to three tests per quarter; four to eight quizzes per quarter

Course Description: After a review of the basic skills learned in Algebra 1, a functional approach is emphasized stressing graphs, properties, and applications of the linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Additional topics include systems of equations, radicals, and solving radical equations, and conic sections. This course increases student’s abilities to grasp more advanced algebra concepts, such as complex numbers, exponential and logarithmic functions, analytical geometry, sequences and series, statistics and probability, matrices and determinants, quadratic equations. More advanced trigonometry is also introduced.

Calculus Grade (s) 12
Course #205 Level: College Prep Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisite (s): Math teacher recommendation, Algebra 2 and Pre-Calculus. To have the best chance of success in calculus, it is recommended that entering students have earned a minimum grade of B in Algebra 2, Trigonometry and Analysis or Pre-Calculus.

Major Obligations of Coursework: Assignments as indicated on weekly syllabus; weekly tests or quizzes

Course Description: This course is designed for students with strong aptitude and background in mathematics. Some students will choose to study the subject because they have a genuine interest in mathematics and enjoy meeting its challenges and problems, others because they need high level math for further study in this subject or related subjects such as university level physics, engineering and technology. This course covers topics in: fundamental mathematics (sequences and series, counting and proof, trigonometry and complex numbers), probability, functions, calculus (differentiations, integration), matrices and vectors and optional topics such as binary operations, graphs and trees, and analysis of approximation. This course is designed for those students who wish to take Calculus, but are not prepared to commit the time required for an AP course. The development of the topics follows a less rigorous, more intuitive approach, aided by graphing calculator technology. Topics include limits, continuity, differentiability, techniques of differentiation and integration, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Primary emphasis is given to applications, particularly from the areas of business, economics, and the social sciences, in the effort to demonstrate the importance and relevance of Calculus to the real world. A graphing calculator is required for this course.

Trigonometry       No Longer Offered                                 Grade (s) 10-11
Course # 206      Level: College Prep      Length: 1 yr      Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics
Prerequisite (s): Algebra 2 and Geometry.

Course Description: This one-year course provides a review of the basic skills learned in Algebra and Geometry to increases student’s abilities to grasp more advanced math concepts. Students will learn to use the trigonometric definitions, applications, graphing, solving trigonometric equations and inequalities. Graphing utilities of graphing calculators and computer graphing simulators are used to investigate and verify the graphs and solutions. More advanced math concepts in Algebra are introduced. This course provides the foundation for students to pursue a sequence of advanced mathematical studies from Analysis to Calculus.

Geometry Grade (s) 9 - 10
Course # 207 Level: College Prep Length:1 yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics
Prerequisite (s): Algebra 1 or Algebra I taken simultaneously.

The successful geometry student needs prior experience and training in the basic concepts of Algebra: (solving linear and quadratic equations and inequalities in one variable, operations with real numbers and their properties, solving systems of linear equations, operations with radicals, operations involving laws of exponents)

Major Obligations of Coursework: Two to three tests per quarter; four to eight quizzes per quarter

Course Description: This one-year course provides and introduction to deductive and inductive reasoning through the exploration of geometrical concepts. Geometry is one of the best tools used to develop the ability to observe, think, and reason. The course develops gradually from the basic concepts of geometry, passing through constructions of geometric figures using instruments, measuring and constructing solids to advanced terminology such as transformation of figures and isometric. Some basic trigonometric concepts are also introduced. After a unit on symbolic logic, the postulates and theorems of plane and solid Geometry are used to illustrate the deductive method in mathematics. The focus of the first semester will be the development of various methods of proof related to parallelism, congruence, and similarity. Second semester topics include constructions, areas, volumes, and a brief introduction to trigonometry and analytic geometry. Practice on SAT problems pertaining to Geometry will be included throughout the year as will review of Algebra 1.

Analysis       No Longer Offered                                       Grade (s) 10-11
Course # 208     Level: College Prep      Length: 1 yr      Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics
Prerequisite (s):   Algebra 2, Geometry

Course Description: This one-year course provides a review of the basic skills learned in Algebra, and geometry to increases the student’s abilities to grasp more advanced analytical math concepts, such as Venn diagrams logic, Boolean algebra and probability. Students will learn to use the Trigonometric functions, Polynomial, binomial and rational functions and the Graphing utilities of graphing calculators and computer graphing simulators to investigate and verify the graphs and solutions. The contents of this course will serve as appropriate preparation for calculus.

PRE-CALCULUS Grade (s) 11- 12

Course # 217 Level: Honors Length: 1 yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: B- or better in Algebra 2

Major Obligations of Coursework: Daily assignments; weekly tests or quizzes

Course Description: This course is for students anticipating enrolling in a calculus course at Balboa Academy or in college. The topics range from the real and complex numbers through elementary algebraic and transcendental functions and coordinate geometry. Emphasis is placed on problem solving and on real- world applications. The graphing calculator is used extensively throughout the course. A brief introduction to Calculus is also included. The course will prepare students for the SAT II Achievement Exam.

STATISTICS AND PROBABILITY Grade (s) 11- 12

Course #214 Level: College Prep Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and Geometry,

Major Obligations of Coursework: Graded weekly assignments; exams

Course Description: The purpose of the Statistics and Probability course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: Exploring Data, Planning a Study, Anticipating Patterns and Statistical Inference. At the end of the course students may elect to take the AP Exam. The Minitab Statistical Analysis Program is used and a TI-83/4 graphing calculator is required.

Math for the Global Economy No Longer Offered Grade (s) 10 - 12
Course #21 Level: HS Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics
Prerequisite (s): Algebra I and Geometry

Course Description: A key element in motivating students to learn mathematics is relating the content of the course to the real world At the heart of this course is the real-world application of computational skills to solve business and consumer problems in the global economy. This course offers a comprehensive plan for strengthening students skills in problem solving focused on two key elements business applications and problem-solving strategies. Business today is conducted on a worldwide level by both large and small corporations. One of the most effective ways to give students a global perspective of business is to make them aware of the international aspects of trade, where products are made and why. This course covers topics in: fundamental mathematics, personal business mathematics (banking, loans, credit, transportation, business mathematics.

Math Problem Solving in Science and Technology No Longer Offered Grade (s) 10- 12

Course #219 Level: HS Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: Algebra 1 and Geometry

Major Obligations of Coursework: Daily assignments; weekly tests or quizzes, computer project

Course Description: This course is a course open to 10-12th grade students who have an interest in technical or skilled careers. Essential math skills and practical applications in fields such as auto/diesel mechanics, electronics, agriculture, allied health, and the industrial/construction trades will be covered. This course provides mathematics problem solving, integrated and applied to science and technology to help students see the importance of mathematics in their daily lives and in possible career choices. This course will motivate students to learn and apply mathematics principles and concepts. Information is provided on different careers in tech prep fields that require mastery of mathematical skills and offer career information, educational prerequisites, and mathematical exercises related to each career. Numerous hands-on activities spark students' interest, as they are encouraged to make observations, draw conclusions, and explore new ways of approaching mathematical problems. Math applications integrated throughout the course help students apply what they have learned and challenge students to apply math principles to real-world situations and develop their problem-solving skills, both within the classroom and beyond. Computer applications and calculator exercises show students how to use technology to solve problems. A TI-83 PLUS graphing calculator is required. Algebra is integrated throughout the course. The course also makes meaningful connections to geometry, statistics, consumer mathematics, business mathematics, and other mathematical disciplines. Approval of a math teacher is needed to enroll.

PRE-CALCULUS Honors Grade (s) 10- 12

Course # 223 Level: Honors Length: 1 yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: B- or better in Algebra 2 Honors

Major Obligations of Coursework: Daily assignments; weekly tests or quizzes

GEOMETRY Honors Grade (s) 9 - 12

Course #224 Level: Honors Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: Algebra 1 Honors with a minimum grade of “B-” or Algebra 1 CP with a minimum grade of “B+” and approval of a math teacher is needed to enroll.

Major Obligations of Coursework: Graded weekly assignments; exams

Course Description:This course studies most of the principles of Euclidean geometry within 2 or 3 dimensions. Major emphasis is put on organization and interpretation of data and formulation of arguments for proofs.

AP Calculus AB Grade (s) 12
Course #225 Level: Advanced Placement Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisite (s): Math teacher recommendation, Algebra 2 Honors, and Pre-Calculus Honors. To have the best chance of success in AP Calculus , it is recommended that entering students have earned a minimum grade of B in Algebra II Honors and Pre-Calculus Honors.

Major Obligations of Coursework: Assignments as indicated on weekly syllabus; weekly tests or quizzes

ALGEBRA 2 Honors Grade (s) 10 - 12

Course #226 Level: Honors Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: Algebra 1 Honors and Geometry Honors with a B- or above or Algebra 1 CP and Geometry CP with a B+,

Major Obligations of Coursework: Graded weekly assignments; exams

Course Description: This course is an expansion of algebra. Students will learn additional methods and investigate additional topics of algebra in both the real and imaginary number systems. The graphing calculator will be used throughout the course. Approval of a math teacher is needed to enroll.

ALGEBRA Honors Grade (s) 7 - 9 -

Course #226 Level: Honors Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra 1 Honors with a “B-” or above or with a "B+" or above in Pre-Algebra and recommendation of the teachers

Major Obligations of Coursework: Graded weekly assignments; exams

Course Description: This course will study the internal relationships of the real number system. Students will be required to learn properties, definitions, and terminology which describe these relationships, as well as the manipulative skills necessary to alter expressions, equations, and inequalities, as needed. Students will also learn how to represent relationships graphically. This course is for students with good arithmetic skills who are interested in post-secondary education.

ALGEBRA 1A Grade (s) 9

Course #227 Level: HS Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: Pre-algebra in grade 8

Major Obligations of Coursework: Graded weekly assignments; exams

Course Description: This course is designed for the student who needs more time to learn the basic skills of algebra. It is a one year course covering the first semester topics included in Algebra 1 College Prep. The Algebra 1 College Prep textbook is used but the pace has been slowed down greatly, and more explanation and examples are given. Supplemental materials will be used as well as hands-on materials. All incoming 9^th grade students not enrolled or having completed Algebra 1 College Prep or Honors courses will be placed in this course.

ALGEBRA 1B Grade (s) 10

Course #228 Level: HS Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: both semesters of Algebra 1A with a minimum grade of ”C”and approval of a math teacher is needed to enroll.

Major Obligations of Coursework: Graded weekly assignments; exams

Course Description: This course is a continuation of Algebra 1A. It is a one year course covering the second semester topics included in Algebra 1 College Prep. At the successful completion of this course a student will have taken the equivalent of College Prep Algebra.

GEOMETRY A Grade (s) 11

Course #230 Level: HS Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: Algebra 1 or Algebra 1A and 1B with a minimum grade of “C and approval of a math teacher is needed to enroll.

Major Obligations of Coursework: Graded weekly assignments; exams

Course Description: This course is designed as a 1 year course for the student who needs more time to learn the basic skills of geometry and who may have difficulty with formal proof but who could benefit from learning geometric concepts and applications. It is a one year course covering the first semester topics included in the Geometry College Prep course. The Geometry CP textbook is used but the pace has been slowed down greatly, and more explanation and examples are given. Supplemental materials will be used as well as hands-on materials.

GEOMETRY B Grade (s) 12

Course #231 Level: HS Length: 1yr Credit (s): 1 in Mathematics

Prerequisites: Geometry A with a minimum grade of “C” and approval of a math teacher is needed to enroll.

Major Obligations of Coursework: Graded weekly assignments; exams

Course Description: This course is designed for the student who needs more time to learn the basic skills of geometry and who may have difficulty with formal proof but who could benefit from learning geometric concepts and applications. It is a one year course covering the Second semester topics included in the Geometry College Prep course. The Geometry College Prep textbook is used but the pace has been slowed down greatly, and more explanation and examples are given. Supplemental materials will be used as well as hands-on materials.

Mathematics Course Offerings

Within the Mathematics Department there are three sequences of study: an honors sequence and two college preparatory sequences. Prerequisites are indicated in the individual course descriptions. Placement in sequential courses is based on the student’s grades, the recommendation of the teacher, and performance on department exams. For students to remain in the Honors sequence of courses they must maintain a B- average. For students to move up to a higher sequence, they should have an A or B+ and be recommended by the teacher.

The typical sequence of courses is listed below.

HONORS:

Grade 6 Pre-Algebra Honors

Grade 7 Algebra 1 Honors *

Grade 8 Geometry Honors

Grade 9 Algebra 2 Honors

Grade 10 Pre-Calculus Honors

Grade 11 Calculus AP AB

Grade 12 Calculus AP BC

(ELECTIVE in Grades 10-12: AP Statistics & Probability

COLLEGE PREP 1

Grade 6 Math 6

Grade 7 Pre-Algebra

Grade 8 Algebra 1

Grade 9 Geometry

Grade 10 Algebra 2

Grade 11 Pre-Calculus

Grade 12 Calculus

(ELECTIVE in Gr. 11 or 12: AP Statistics & Probability

COLLEGE PREP 2

Grade 6 Math 6

Grade 7 Math 7

Grade 8 Pre-Algebra

Grade 9 Algebra 1A

Grade 10 Algebra 1B

Grade 11 Algebra 2A and Geometry A

Grade 12 Algebra 2B and Geometry B

*A student who is very strong in math may take Algebra 1 or Algebra 1 Honors in the 7th grade or 8th grade to progress through AP calculus AB or AP calculus BC. Recommendation of math teacher and approval of Dean Required.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

SCIENCE	SOCIAL STUDIES	MATHEMATICS	ENGLISH	FINE ARTS

COMPUTER SCIENCE	SPANISH - FRENCH	PHYSICAL EDUCATION	ELECTIVES	COURSE LIST

	HS SCHEDULE FORM		4 YR HS PLAN