MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT
The Mathematics Department offers a wide range of courses to provide
students with opportunities to actively participate in learning the
structure and the nature of mathematics, while developing analytic
skills that will help them apply basic principles to other areas of
study and everyday living. Students begin their mathematics program at
FHS at different points, based on their middle school programs. The
basic sequence of mathematics courses is Algebra I, Geometry, and
Algebra II. Many students enroll in higher-level mathematics courses
after successful completion of Algebra II. All mathematics courses make
use of technology in the form of computer software, such as Geometry
Sketchpad, Minitab and/or graphing calculators. Technology allows
students to visualize the mathematics that they are learning as well as
lessening the burden of voluminous and complicated numerical
computation. Students should check with their current mathematics
teachers for recommendations about appropriate types of graphing
calculators. The Mathematics Department requires that students purchase
their own calculators (which will be used throughout their math program
at the high school and beyond).
Courses Offered:
- Concepts in Algebra and Geometry 201 College Preparatory
- Algebra I 202 College Preparatory
- Algebra I 245 Honors
- Geometry 211 Honors
- Geometry 212 College Preparatory
- Algebra II 219 Honors
- Algebra II 220 College Preparatory
- Pre-Calculus 231 Honors
- Precalculus CP 246 College Preparatory
- Calculus H 244 Honors
- Calculus AB/AP 240 Advanced Placement
- Calculus BC/AP 230 Advanced Placement
- Calculus CP 247 College Preparatory
- Discrete Mathematics CP 249 College Preparatory
- Statistics/AP 260 Advanced Placement
- Statistics 262 Honors
- Statistics 263 College Preparatory
- Computer Science I 294 Honors
- Computer Science II/AP 296 Advanced Placement
Concepts in Algebra and Geometry 201 College Preparatory
Grade 10
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Concepts in Algebra and Geometry is a course that continues the
development of algebraic thinking established in Algebra 1 CP. The
content of this course is designed for those 10th grade students who
need more time to assimilate the basic algebraic concepts necessary for
the continuation of mathematics. Concepts in Algebra and Geometry will
focus on the following concepts: polynomials and operations with
polynomials, solving equations and inequalities, relations, systems of
equations and inequalities, rational expressions, nomenclature of
geometry, and deductive reasoning. For success in Concepts in Algebra
and Geometry, students will need familiarity with number facts and
operations and a commitment to work hard both in class and on the daily
homework (30 minutes or more). Students will be expected to participate
actively in class, both as individuals and as team members. Students
will use graphing calculators and are required to have their own
calculators to complete assignments both in class and at home. Grades
in this class will be based on homework, class work, tests, and
quizzes. Completion of Concepts in Algebra and Geometry will provide
students with a solid foundation in a comprehensive algebra program as
well as a foundation in the principles of geometry, which will afford
them greater success in more advanced mathematics courses.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to enroll in
Geometry CP or Honors based on grades and recommendation from Concepts
of Algebra and Geometry teacher.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1 CP and recommendation from
Algebra 1 CP teacher
Algebra I 202 College Preparatory
Grades 9,10,11,12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Algebra I is an entry level course offered in the college preparatory
program. The major topics to be covered include the properties of the
real number system, polynomials and operations with polynomials,
factoring, exponents, solving equations and inequalities, relations,
functions, systems of equations and inequalities, and rational
expressions. These algebraic topics will be integrated in real world
problems that also explore topics from discrete mathematics, such as
statistics, probability, graphs, and others. A major goal of the course
is to introduce the language of algebra and foster the integration of
geometry and technology in real world situations. Students will
evaluate formulas, apply the Pythagorean Theorem, Triangle Sum Theorem,
Triangle Inequality Theorem. They will determine algebraic expressions,
solve linear equations and inequalities, graph solutions, interpret
graphs, and other work that will prepare them with a foundation for
further study in mathematics. Since algebra permeates all of
mathematics, a strong foundation in this first course is essential for
success in future courses. For students to experience success in
algebra they will need familiarity with number facts and operations and
a commitment to work hard both in class and on the daily homework (30
minutes or more). Students will be expected to actively participate in
class, both as individuals and as team members. Since technology is
becoming increasingly more important, it is integrated into our
lessons. Students are required to have a graphing calculator for this
course in order to complete assignments both in class and at home.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to enroll in
Geometry CP or Honors based on grades and recommendation of Algebra 1
CP teacher
Prerequisite: Recommendation of 8th Grade Math Teacher
Algebra I 245 Honors
Grades 9
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Algebra I Honors is the entry level course offered in the honors
program. Topics are introduced at a high level of rigor and precision.
The major topics to be covered include the properties of the real
number system, polynomials and operations with polynomials, factoring,
exponents, solving equations and inequalities, relations, functions,
systems of equations and inequalities, and rational expressions. These
algebraic topics will be integrated in real world problems that also
explore topics from discrete mathematics, such as statistics,
probability, graphs, and others. A major goal of the course is to
introduce the language of algebra and foster the integration of
geometry and technology in real world situations. Students will
evaluate formulas, apply the Pythagorean Theorem, Triangle Sum Theorem,
Triangle Inequality Theorem. They will determine algebraic expressions,
solve linear equations and inequalities, graph solutions, interpret
graphs, and other work that will prepare them with a foundation for
further study in mathematics. Since algebra permeates all of
mathematics, a strong foundation in this first course is essential for
success in future courses. For students to experience success in
algebra they will need familiarity with number facts and operations and
a commitment to work hard both in class and on the daily homework (30
minutes or more). Students will be expected to actively participate in
class, both as individuals and as team members. Since technology is
becoming increasingly more important, it is integrated into our
lessons. Students are required to have a graphing calculator for this
course in order to complete assignments both in class and at home.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to enroll in
Geometry CP or Honors based on grades and recommendation of Algebra 1
CP teacher.
Prerequisite: Recommendation of 8th Grade Math Teacher
Geometry 211 Honors
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Geometry Honors takes a formal approach to the discipline. Topics are
developed with a high degree of rigor and precision and include angle
relationships, line relationships, congruent and similar triangles and
polygons, circles, quadrilaterals, constructions, and area and volume
of plane and solid figures. The development of the course will
integrate algebra and discrete topics that will also be examined
analytically. Transformation functions will be employed in the analysis
of plane figures that are reflected, rotated, dilated or translated.
Three-dimensional figures, measurement and connection with other
disciplines are also given much attention in the course. Developing the
student’s mathematical power to explore, make conjectures, and reason
logically is a major goal. Students who elect this course will be
expected to work hard. A graphing calculator is required for this
course. Computer technology and other graphics utilities will be
employed to explore, conjecture, and simplify learning. Activities,
real world applications, continual review and the use of graphics
technology will be part of the pedagogical tools that will assist
student learning. Students will be assigned homework daily and will be
expected to actively participate in class activities and complete
out-of-class projects.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to enroll in
Algebra 2 Honors or CP based on grades and recommendation of Geometry
Honors teacher.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 1 Honors with minimum grade of C or
completion of Algebra 1 CP with minimum grade of B+ and recommendation
of Algebra 1 CP teacher.
Geometry 212 College Preparatory
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
The major topics covered in Geometry CP include angle relationships,
perpendicular and parallel lines and planes, congruent triangles,
quadrilaterals, similar polygons, circles, constructions, area of
polygons and lateral area, surface area and volume of three-dimensional
figures. Analytical relationships will be established, as topics from algebra and discrete mathematics are
integrated, using transformations of points and figures on the
Cartesian Coordinate system. Activities, real world applications,
continual review and the use of graphics technology will be part of the
pedagogical tools that will assist student learning. A graphing
calculator is required for this course. The use of applicable software
will assist students in learning the vocabulary and the concepts of
geometry along with the properties and characteristics of the plane
figures. Students will be assigned homework daily and will be expected
to actively participate in class activities and complete out-of-class
projects for successful completion of the course.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to enroll in
Algebra 2 Honors or CP based on grades and recommendation of Geometry
Honors teacher.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 CP/Honors or Concepts
in Algebra and Geometry
Algebra II 219 Honors
Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Algebra II Honors extends and further explores topics already developed
in Algebra I and Geometry, and the course includes new topics from both
continuous and discrete mathematics. Concepts will be developed with
rigorous and stringent attention to detail, processing and
understanding. Topics will include: polynomial, exponential,
logarithmic and trigonometric functions, matrices, graphs, systems of
equations, inverses, sequences, series and combinations. A real world
orientation has guided both the selections of the content and the
applications. Activities are included in many lessons, and up-to-date
technology is used and integrated throughout the course. Students will
explore, analyze and consider the mathematics from an algebraic,
numerical and graphical approach in an effort to synthesize their newly
acquired knowledge. Homework will be assigned daily. To be successful
in this honors course students must have a strong algebraic foundation
and fluency in algebra vocabulary. Willingness to work hard, to
participate individually and in groups, and effectively communicate
orally and in writing are requirements for success. Students are
required to have a graphing calculator for the course.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to enroll in
Pre-Calculus CP/H based on grades and recommendation of Algebra 2 H
teacher.
Prerequisite: Completion of Geometry Honors with minimum grade of C or
completion of Geometry CP with minimum grade of B+ and recommendation
of Geometry CP teacher
Algebra II 220 College Preparatory
Grades 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
The Algebra II CP course includes all the topics covered in the honors
program: linear relations, functions, graphs, matrices, systems of
equations, powers, inverses, radicals, trigonometry, series,
combinations, etc. The development of the course, however, is less
rigorous and applies more intuitive understanding. The graphing
calculator and other technology prompts will be used to clarify
concepts and analyze the concepts from a graphical and numerical as
well as an algebraic perspective. Algebra is an important component of
all mathematics, and since students will be confronted with complex
algebraic manipulations in any college math course they take, it makes
sense to continue the development of algebraic algorithms and
procedures. In this course students will develop skills in carrying out
various algorithms; identify mathematical properties and relationships;
apply mathematics in real-world situations; and produce graphical
representations of concepts. Homework will be assigned daily. Students
are expected to be active participants in class, both individually and
in group work. A solid background in basic algebra and geometry is
essential for success. Students are required to have a graphing
calculator for this course.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to enroll in
Pre-Calculus (Honors or CP), based upon grades and recommendation of
Algebra 2 CP teacher.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Geometry CP/Honors
Pre-Calculus 231 Honors
Grades 10, 11
Full Year 5.0 Credits
This course has as its objective the development of a broad base
foundation in mathematics upon which to build the concepts of calculus.
A solid foundation in algebra and geometry is essential, and students
are expected to have successfully completed both Algebra II Honors and
Geometry Honors. Students will continue to develop and extend
previously learned topics and encounter new concepts that are necessary
in future study. All topics will be explored in detail and in depth,
analyzing the concepts from an algebraic as well as from a numerical
and graphical perspective. The topics include polynomial, rational,
exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and circular functions.
Vectors, polar equations, parametric equations, systems, sequences,
series and other topics from discrete mathematics, are also part of the
curriculum. The concepts are explored and applied in real world
problems integrated with graphics utilities and other technological
prompts. Success in this course requires a great deal of focus and
work, both in class and at home. Students are required to have a
graphing calculator for this course. Those students who successfully
complete the course with a grade of B+ or better will be prepared for
the AP Calculus course offered at the high school.
Upon completion of Pre-Calculus Honors, students will be able to enroll
in Calculus (AP, Honors, or CP), Statistics ( AP, Honors, or CP) or
Discrete Mathematics CP based on grades and recommendation of
Pre-Calculus teacher.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2 Honors with minimum grade of C or
completion of Algebra 2 CP with minimum grade of B+ and recommendation
from Algebra 2 CP teacher.
Precalculus CP 246 College Preparatory
Grades 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
This course has as its objective the development of a broad base
foundation in mathematics upon which to build the concepts of calculus.
A solid foundation in algebra and geometry is essential. Students will
continue to develop and extend previously learned topics and encounter
new concepts that
are necessary in future study. All topics will be explored in detail
and in depth, analyzing the concepts from an algebraic as well as from
a numerical and graphical perspective. The topics include polynomial,
rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and circular
functions. Vectors, polar equations, parametric equations, systems,
sequences, series and other topics from discrete mathematics, are also
part of the curriculum. The concepts are explored and applied in real
world problems integrated with graphics utilities and other
technological prompts. Success in this course requires a great deal of
focus and work, both in class and at home. Students are required to
have a graphing calculator for this course.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to enroll in
students will be able to enroll in Calculus (AP, Honors, or CP),
Statistics (AP, Honors, or CP) or Discrete Mathematics CP based on
grades and recommendation of Pre-Calculus teacher.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2 CP/Honors
Calculus H 244 Honors
Grades 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
This calculus course will develop most of the topics that are on the
syllabus of the Calculus Advanced Placement Program at a slower rate
and with a less rigorous tone. The syllabus will include a preliminary
review of polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric
transcendental and other functions, their properties, and applications.
The concept of differentiation and integration, and their applications
in real world problems are then explored, developed, and analyzed. The
development of the course will encompass a theoretical approach as well
as a concrete understanding. All topics are explored numerically,
graphically and algebraically, always with application to the everyday
real world. The course is demanding both with respect to class work and
homework. Success in the course requires a strong and sound foundation
in logic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and analytic geometry, plus
a sincere devotion to hard work and persistent effort with a clear and
focused mind. Students who complete this course successfully will be
prepared to pass college entrance examinations in Mathematics. A
graphing calculator is required for this course. Also, summer work is
assigned, to complete during the summer, before entering the class.
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to enroll in
Stats (AP, Honors, or CP) or Discrete Mathematics CP based on grades
and recommendation of Calculus Honors teacher.
Prerequisite: Completion of Pre-Calculus Honors with a minimum grade of
C or completion of Pre-Calculus CP with minimum grade of B+ and
recommendation of Pre-Calculus CP teacher.
Calculus AB/AP 240 Advanced Placement
Grades 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Calculus AB/AP develops all the topics, which are on the syllabus of
the Calculus Advanced Placement Program. The topics include a
preliminary review of polynomial, exponential, logarithmic,
trigonometric transcendental and other functions, their properties, and
applications. The concepts of differentiation and integration, and
their applications to real world problems, are explored, developed and
analyzed in detail, and with a high degree of rigor and sophistication.
The development of the course will encompass a theoretical approach as
well as a concrete understanding. All the topics are explored
numerically, graphically and algebraically—always with application to
the everyday experiences of the real world. The course is demanding
with respect to class work and homework. Success in the course requires
a strong and sound foundation in logic, algebra, geometry,
trigonometry, and analytic geometry, plus a sincere devotion to hard
work and persistent effort, with a clear and focused mind. Students
completing this course take the Advanced Placement Examination for
college credit, and/or advanced placement. A graphing calculator is
required for a student enrolled in this course. Also, summer work is
assigned, and to be completed during the summer, before entering the
class.
Prerequisite: Completion of Pre-Calculus H with minimum grade of B+ and
recommendation of Pre-Calculus teacher. Refer to pages six and seven
for additional information and requirements.
Calculus BC/AP 230 Advanced Placement
Grade 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
This course is offered to those students who have completed the
Calculus AB syllabus. The course will complete the remaining topics of
a second semester of college calculus. The topics to be covered will
include a review and an extension of the differential and integral
topics covered in the AB syllabus and will expand the applications of
these concepts. Additional topics to be included are: Parametrics,
polar and vector functions and their derivatives, series including
Taylor Maclaurin and the applicable calculus, and polynomial
approximations of series, power series. Also included will be improper
integral, convergence and divergence tests, etc. This course will be
demanding and will require students to do summer work before entering
in September.
Prerequisite: Completion of Calculus AB with minimum grade of C or
Calculus H with minimum grade of B+ and recommendation of Calculus H
teacher.
Calculus CP 247 College Preparatory
Grade 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Calculus is a rigorous course designed to strengthen and extend
students’ mathematical background. Topics presented are from continuous
as well as discrete mathematics and include probability, polynomial and
logarithmic functions, sequences, series, and an introduction to the
derivative and integral concept of calculus. Since complex algebraic
manipulations permeate all college mathematics, it is reasonable to
continue skill development with patterns and algebraic algorithms at
this stage of the student’s education. Students will find that the
review and extension of the previously encountered concepts will
connect their knowledge and help them assimilate new understandings.
The use of the graphing calculator to explore the mathematical concepts
will further clarify and deepen their understanding and generate more
questions for exploration. Calculus will further connect topics and
extend the application of mathematics to real world problems. Students
are required to have a graphing calculator for this course. To
experience success the student must do daily homework, explore
out-of-class projects and actively participate in class.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-Calculus H/CP and
recommendation of Pre-Calculus teacher.
Discrete Mathematics CP 249 College Preparatory
Grades 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Discrete Mathematics covers a wide-scope curriculum. Topics, such as
logic, properties of integers, sequences, induction, recursion,
combinatories, graphs, and networks are all discrete topics important
in understanding current mathematics and its uses, particularly
relative to computers. All of the content is studied in detail for its
application to real-world problems using methods and applications
settings that are reality oriented. This course also gives strong
attention to the reason gin process used by mathematicians and those
that use mathematics. Since complex algebraic manipulations are
necessary in virtually all college mathematics courses that students
will encounter, we continue to practice these skills, and develop an
appreciation for the deductive approaches in many feels of study. The
instructional methods used are designed to maximize the student's
acquisition of skill and concept. The ability to analyze and carry out
algorithms, the ability to develop and use mathematical properties and
relationships, the ability to apply mathematics to real situations, and
the ability to represent or picture mathematical concepts are all goals
for students. Students enrolled in this course must have a solid
understanding of the algebra and geometry of their previous courses.
Students will be required to do homework daily, along with other
out-of-class projects. To be successful, students must be persistent
with their work, must assume responsibility for the content, and must
be actively involved in the process. A graphic calculator is required
for students enrolled in this course. Upon completion of this course,
students will be able to enroll in Algebra 2 Honors or CP based on
grades and recommendation of Geometry Honors teacher.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-Calculus H/CP and
recommendation of Pre-Calculus teacher
Statistics/AP 260 Advanced Placement
Grades 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
The Advanced Placement Statistics course introduces 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, probability, and statistical
inference. Students who successfully complete the course and
examination may receive credit and/or advanced placement for a
one-semester college course in introductory statistics. AP Statistics
is an excellent option for any student who has successfully completed a
second year course in algebra, regardless of the student’s intended
college major. At least one statistics course is typically required for
majors such as engineering, mathematics, psychology, sociology, health
science, and business. This course will explore examples in diverse
fields. Appropriate use of technology, student projects, and
alternative assessments will be incorporated. This is a non-calculus
based introductory course. A graphing calculator is essential for
success in this course. Summer reading will be assigned.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2 Honors with a minimum grade of B+
and recommendation of Algebra 2 Honors teacher. Refer to information
and requirements on page three and four.
Statistics 262 Honors
Grades 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Statistics Honors will explore and develop the four conceptual themes
of the Advanced Placement Statistics program in less depth. Successful
completion of this course will give students a preview and a firm
foundation for any college statistics course. Students will complete
group projects, including a culmination project employing inference. A
graphing calculator will be used in class and for the daily homework
assignments.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2 or Pre-Calculus H with a minimum
grade of C or completion of Algebra 2 CP or Pre-Calculus CP with a
minimum grade of B+ and recommendation of Pre-Calculus CP teacher.
Statistics 263 College Preparatory
Grades 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Statistics introduces students to the major concepts and tools for
collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Emphasis will
be placed upon statistical applications relative to data and concepts,
rather than formal probability and theory. Through active learning
students will learn ideas and skills that will allow them to integrate
their knowledge with other disciplines. Technological student projects,
including use of Mini-tab and other forms of assessment will be
incorporated, making Statistics an excellent option for any student who
has successfully completed a second year of algebra. Students are
required to have a graphing calculator for this course. Homework is
assigned daily.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2 CP/H or Pre-Calculus
CP/H
Computer Science I 294 Honors
Grades 10, 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
Students entering into the Computer Science I (CSI) course will be
exposed to many of the concepts essential in the understanding and
construction of computer programs. These concepts will be introduced
and explored using the Java programming language. The course will cover
a number of key topics crucial to software development including:
variables, branching, looping, arrays, objects, sorting, data
structures, and software engineering techniques. Students, upon
successful completion of this course, will be able to design, build and
modify Java components. Work will be primarily project-based, with a
concentration on developing actual hands-on skills. Most work and exams
will be on the computers and will be completed in class. To be
successful in this course, students are expected to do 30 minutes of
homework per day.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra 2 H with a minimum grade of C or
completion of Algebra 2 CP with a minimum grade of B+.
Computer Science II/AP 296 Advanced Placement
Grades 11, 12
Full Year 5.0 Credits
The second course of the Computer Science series focuses upon preparing
the student for the Advanced Placement Test in Computer Science AB. The
course will begin with a review of CSI. Additional concepts will be
introduced, such as analysis of algorithms, and advanced topics in
sorting, data structures, algorithms, and software engineering. The
class will participate in a full-lifecycle development project, with a
goal of completed application by the end of the year. The course will
expand beyond simple programming to involve homework, research, and
reports, as students begin to explore more of the history and theory
behind computer programming. To be successful in this course, students
are expected to do 30 minutes of homework per day.
Prerequisite: Completion of Computer Science I with a minimum grade of
C.
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