Mathematics
Ms. Mary Groth, Dept. Chair
MATHEMATICS--All students are required to complete three years of mathematics at Paraclete, which must include Algebra and Geometry. Algebra II is required for university admissions. For students who will pursue a career in Mathematics, Science, or Engineering, four years of mathematics, including Algebra II and Pre- Calculus, is recommended, and at times for selected colleges, may be required.
Pre-Algebra Year Course 9
Prerequisite: Test scores on the High School Placement Test and/or MDTP Algebra Readiness Test that are below those needed for Algebra I. This course consolidates the arithmetic of the previous grade and at the same time prepares students for topics in algebra and geometry. Some topics are decimals, fractions, positive and negative numbers, equations, word problems, angles and lines, and measurement. A student who earns a grade lower than a “C” may jeopardize his/her continuation at Paraclete High School.
*Algebra I Year Course 9,10
Prerequisite: Appropriate mathematical preparation as evidenced on a High School Placement test and/or MDTP Algebra
I Readiness Test. This course is designed to present the concepts of elementary algebra which includes the topics of signed numbers, evaluation of expressions, solution of equations, word problems, factoring, simplification of radicals, linear equations, and quadratic equations.
*Algebra II Year Course 10,11,12
Prerequisite: Two semesters of Algebra I with a minimum grade of “C” (73%) each semester and two semesters
Geometry. One year course covering in-depth solution of linear equations and inequalities and their graphs, quadratic equations and inequalities, graphs of any second degree equation, logarithms, sequences and series. If time permits, selected trigonometry topics will be introduced. This is the third year of mathematics required for entrance to most four year colleges and universities.
*Algebra II Honors/Trigonometry Year Course 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra I and Geometry with “A” grades would be an indication of eligibility. Additional
requirements for admission to the class would be essentially similar to those for admission to any other honors course at Paraclete. Teacher recommendation is required. This course is designed to cover Algebra II concepts through Precalculus level Algebra as well as the Trigonometry concepts normally presented in either a one-semester Trigonometry course or within a yearlong Precalculus course. It is a fast paced course suitable to students who have demonstrated excellent math aptitude as well as the willingness to do the work required. Successful completion of this course would enable the student to proceed directly into Calculus with instructor’s approval.
*Geometry Year Course 9,10,11,12
Prerequisite: Passing grade in Algebra I at Paraclete High School (Incoming students and 8th graders who have had
Algebra I must pass PHS’s Qualifying exam.) This course introduces students to the inductive approaches to mathematics. It includes the study of angle relationships, parallel lines, congruent triangles, arcs, polygons, coordinates, and areas.
*Honors Geometry Year Course 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: A grade of “A” or high “B” in Algebra I; good attitude and good work habits, does class work and homework on a consistent basis; an excellent attendance record; recommendation from a Paraclete Algebra I instructor. This honors level Geometry class presents more opportunities to the students strong in mathematical skills to study and discuss geometric concepts and principles. The course also includes interdisciplinary topics and real-world applications.
*Pre-Calculus Year Course 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: “C” in Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry from Paraclete High School. Math teacher’s recommendation is required. This course is designed for advanced students who plan to pursue a mathematical or scientific profession. This is a high level course which emphasizes the development of trigonometry as a fundamental mathematical field and stresses problem-solving techniques. It presents geometry in development, which emphasizes precision and thoroughness. Development is based on postulates, logic and deductive system.
*Calculus Year Course 11,12
Prerequisite: “B” in Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus or Algebra II Honors/Trig. Math
teacher’s recommendation is required. This course follows Algebra II Honors or Pre-Calculus. Emphasis will be placed on topics such as limits, differentiation, and Course Catalog 2007-2008 12 integration. Each of these topics will also include extensive practice and use of examples. Because it is an advanced course in mathematics, additional time and effort will be required of the students. This course will prepare the student for advanced Mathematics in college.
*AP Calculus Year Course 11,12
Prerequisite: “B+” in Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus or Algebra II Honors/Trig. Math teacher’s recommendation is required. This is a college level course designed for the serious math student. The aim of this course is to develop skills and techniques for limits, differentiation, and integration. Emphasis will be placed on applications of calculus to other disciplines. In order to cover the necessary materials, this course will demand additional time and effort on the part of the students. At the conclusion of this course students may petition to take the advanced placement exam for Calculus.
*Methods in Mathematical Thinking One year course Grades 11,12
Pre-requisite: One year of Algebra 2
This course is designed to expose the student to high-level mathematical concepts in order to develop his/her ability to
use abstract reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills Students will study logical reasoning and proof that
provides a coherent context in which logic, sets, number theory, and combinatorics are considered. Using combinatorial
techniques, the students will make connections to algebra, probability, geometry, number theory and other math topics.
*Statistics One year course Grades 11,12
Pre-requisite: One year of Algebra 2
This is an introductory course in statistical reasoning designed to acquaint students with the fundamentals of analyzing data from diverse areas of interest. Topics covered include: probability, data dispersion, tendencies, estimations, correlations, variances, and testing hypotheses. Students conduct surveys on timely topics and use statistical techniques to analyze results. The graphing calculator as well as computer software will be used extensively.
* UC Approved Course
