MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT REQUIRED COURSES
CHAIR: MR. RICK DAVIS
The age in which we live is increasingly focused on the importance of mathematics. The Norfolk Collegiate School mathematics curriculum is ever-changing, based on research and the needs of an ever more technological society. To meet these demands, we continue to investigate, evaluate and incorporate the textbooks, equipment and materials judged to be the best for our school community. We also take great care to evaluate each of our students in order to provide the most appropriate offerings in mathematics. We believe that mathematics can and must be learned by all students. Our teachers have high expectations and challenge all students to work to their highest potential, produce their best work and learn. The mathematics department supports the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' recommendation that all students learn algebra and strongly encourages all students to take four years of mathematics.
Students will be placed into Geometry or Honors Geometry and Algebra II or Honors Algebra II/Trig based on their performance and experience in previous math courses.
Algebra I. This course covers all fundamental concepts of Algebra from a review of the use of variables in the basic operations of multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction to multiplication and factoring of polynomials, and solving quadratic equations and linear systems.
Geometry. Algebraic skills, geometric models, coordinate geometry, and hands-on activities are used throughout the course. Formal proof is utilized to enhance the development of students’ two and three dimensional reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Algebra II. This course includes the review and extension of the essential content of first year Algebra and introduces students to advanced algebraic topics such as analytic geometry and logarithms. The graphic calculator is utilized throughout the course to facilitate understanding. This course is also available for credit through the NCS summer school program. Please visit www.norfolkcollegiate.org for details.
Mathematics Department Electives
Algebra III. [First Semester] This one-semester course will reinforce and expand many Algebra II topics and introduce additional mathematical concepts using real world applications and a graphing calculator. Topics include linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic functions and matrices. Successful completion of this course and Trigonometry should prepare students for College Algebra or Pre-Calculus.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II. This course is not open to students who have completed College Algebra or Pre-Calculus.
Grades 11 - 12
Trigonometry. [Second Semester] This one-semester course explores right triangles and trigonometric relationships and their graphs. Emphasis is placed on applications and the use of the graphic calculator as a discovery tool. Successful completion of this course and Algebra III should prepare students for College Algebra or Pre-Calculus.
Prerequisite: Minimum 78 average in Algebra II. The course is not available to students who have completed Pre-Calculus.
Grades 11 - 12
College Algebra. This full-year course examines algebraic functions, the graphing of functions, problem solving, probability, basic trigonometry, and sequences and series. The graphic calculator is utilized to help students develop the algebraic and graphic skills needed to prepare students for Pre-Calculus.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II/Trig or Algebra III or 92 average in Algebra II. This course is not open to students who have taken Pre-Calculus.
Grades 10 - 12
Introduction to Probability and Statistics. This basic statistic course is a year-long course that allows students to examine probability and statistics through hands-on application. Students will use graphic calculators to explore data distributions, probability and relationships of data. This course will help prepare students for a college-level statistics course and is designed primarily for seniors.
Prerequisite: Algebra II
Grade 12
Statistics - Advanced Placement. Throughout this year-long course, students will use graphing calculators and computer output to explore data distribution and relationships. They will design experiments that apply probability and statistical concepts. Statistical inference is stressed during the last half of the course in preparation for the required AP exam.
Prerequisite: Minimum 88 average in Algebra II
Grade 11-12
Pre-Calculus. This full-year course examines trigonometric concepts, analytic geometry, algebraic functions, probability, and sequences and series. The course brings together all the skills necessary for the study of Calculus and the graphic calculator is utilized to help students develop the algebraic and graphic skills needed in Calculus.
Prerequisite: Minimum 86 average in Algebra II/Trig and permission of the instructor, 92 average in Trigonometry, or 86 average in College Algebra.
Grades 10 – 12
Introduction to Calculus. This full-year course prepares students for a calculus course, emphasizing trigonometry, pre-calculus limits, derivatives, and finite sums. Students should take this course in preparation for AP Calculus or Calculus I in college. Eligible juniors are strongly encouraged to take this course to maximize the benefit of AP Calculus in their senior year.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-Calculus with a minimum average of 84 or College Algebra with an average of 90.
Grades 10 – 12
Calculus AB - Advanced Placement. This full-year course explores differential and integral calculus with the use of the graphing calculator to aid in mathematical analysis. The course explores all topics found in a typical college Calculus I course as well as covering all the topics required in the AP Calculus curriculum. In addition, students work to prepare for the required AP exam in May.
Prerequisite: Seniors with a minimum of 88 average in Pre-Calculus or an 84 average in Introduction to Calculus. All Juniors considering this course must discuss their academic plan with the Department Chair. Juniors should take Introduction to Calculus in preparation for this course, but may be considered for a waiver with an average of at least 92 in Pre-Calculus.