Mathematics

Grade: 9
Credit: 10 units

Introduction to Algebra is intended for those students whose background in math needs strengthening. Basic mathematical operations are reviewed and incorporated into introductory algebra and geometry, preparing students to succeed in Algebra I. Topics such as order of operations, factoring, scientific notation, and Pythagorean Theorem will be covered. This course strengthens the student’s computation skills and prepares them for Algebra I.

Grades: 9 & 10
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

Algebra I is a first year course in algebra covering a wide range of introductory mathematical topics.  Students learn the use of the variable as a practical and theoretical tool through its use in operations, equations, functions, and graphing.  Students are introduced to group and discovery-based learning.  This course allows the student to strengthen their problem solving and thinking skills while giving them the mathematical background needed for other disciplines, e.g., science.
Prerequisite: A satisfactory grade in 8th grade mathematics, as well as a satisfactory grade on the entrance examination, or a C- or better in Introduction to Algebra. 
 

Grade: 9
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

This is an accelerated course that offers Algebra II to incoming freshmen who meet prerequisites.  Topics such as exponential and logarithmic functions, quadratics, and higher-order polynomials and conic sections will be taught.  A review of Algebra I concepts such as solving equations, factoring, functions, inequalities, graphing, rational expressions, and radicals will also be covered. This advanced course will build on the previous objectives described under Algebra I and prepare students for more advanced mathematics courses.
Prerequisite: Score 90% or above on  Salesian Math Placement Test (required).
 

Grades: 10 & 11
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

This is a discovery-based course in Euclidean geometry.  It provides an inductive approach to the principles of geometry, including line and angle relationships, congruency, similarity, polygons, circles, coordinate geometry, area, volume, constructions, logic, and proofs. This course will develop the student’s deductive and inductive reasoning skills as well as allow the student to see the interrelation between algebra and geometry, and to use algebra as a tool to solve geometric questions.
Prerequisite: A passing grade in Algebra I or a grade of B or better in Algebra I Second Semester (summer course) or equivalent. (Summer school is highly recommended for students receiving a D in Algebra I.)

Grades: 10
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

Geometry with Trigonometry is a course designed to meet the needs of students continuing in our Honors Math Program. These students will be taking Geometry in an accelerated fashion with Trigonometry at the end of the year. The course will cover all of the requirements of Geometry by exploring lines, circles, polygons and solids and their properties, constructions, how to formulate conjectures and proofs, and how to develop formulas for area, surface area, and volume, etc. On top of the trigonometry explored when studying triangles, right triangles, and the Pythagorean Theorem, students will be presented with all six trigonometric functions. They will be expected to know radian and degree measure, use a unit circle and a calculator to find the values of the regular and inverse trigonometric functions, graph them in a coordinate plane, and prove trigonometric identities.  Students will learn how to use the properties explored in Geometry and Trigonometry and further their abilities in arguing their findings through proofs and mathematical statements.
Prerequisite: C- or better in Accelerated Algebra
 

Grades: 11 & 12
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

In this course, students study algebra in greater depth, reinforcing concepts from Algebra I, while introducing additional ideas. The main topics covered are polynomials, rational expressions, real and complex number systems, conic sections, systems of equations, exponential and logarithmic functions and a brief survey of trigonometry. 
Prerequisite: A passing grade or better in Algebra I and a passing grade in Geometry. (Summer school is highly recommended for students receiving a D in Algebra I.)
 

Grades: 12
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

Statistics is a two-semester course that provides preparation to maximize the potential for success in an AP Statistics or a college statistics course. Topics include data analysis, probability, simulations, inferential statistics, normal and binomial distribution, techniques of sampling, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. Students use exploratory methods to identify patterns and make decisions. Emphasis is placed on applications and the use of statistics to solve real-life problems.

Prerequisite: A passing grade or better in Algebra II and a passing grade in Geometry.

Grades: 12
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

AP Statistics is an introductory college-level statistics course that introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students cultivate their understanding of statistics using technology, investigations, problem solving, and writing as they explore concepts like variation and distribution; patterns and uncertainty; and data-based predictions, decisions, and conclusions.

Prerequisite: A grade of A- or better in Algebra II and department chair approval.

Grades: 11 & 12
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

Pre-Calculus is a college preparatory course that integrates algebraic and geometric concepts, while additionally covering advanced algebra concepts, analytic geometry, trigonometry, exponents, logarithms, higher order polynomials, and an introduction to differential, and integral calculus. Students who successfully complete this course will be prepared for college level calculus.   
Prerequisite: A grade of C+ or better in Algebra II and the recommendations of previous mathematics teachers.
 

Grades 11 & 12
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

This is a college preparatory honors course that integrates algebraic and geometric concepts, while additionally covering advanced algebra concepts, analytic geometry, trigonometry, exponents, logarithms, higher order polynomials, matrices, sequences, and series.  Aside from learning the basics of Calculus, students will begin coursework from the AP Calculus AB program in that they will complete work on limits, continuity, derivatives and their applications.
Prerequisite: Completion of Geometry with Trigonometry or equivalent course
 

Grade:  12
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

Calculus covers the materials presented in the first semester of college calculus for mathematicians, scientists, and engineers. Students are presented with new concepts and given the opportunity to assess and reinforce their understanding through practice problems. The main topics covered in this AP course are functions, graphs, limits, derivatives, integrals and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Students will also work with functions represented graphically, numerically, analytically, or verbally, and should understand the connections among these representations. This course allows students to qualify for college credit through the AP Calculus test in May.
Prerequisite: A grade of B or better in Pre-Calculus, or a grade of B or better in Algebra II, and the recommendation of previous mathematics teachers. A summer school course covering pre-calculus topics may be required.

Grade: 12
Credit: 10 units
UC/CSU/NCAA Approved

AP Calculus BC covers material presented in the second semester of college calculus for mathematicians, scientists and engineers. In addition to covering the same topics from the AP Calculus AB course, the BC course covers polynomial approximations and series.  Students work independently to prepare themselves for the AP Calculus BC exam which gives students both a Calculus BC score and a Calculus AP subscore.  
Prerequisite: A grade of C- or better in Advanced Placement Calculus AB and the recommendation of the Calculus teacher.