Mathematics
(from the Chesapeake Public Schools Secondary Student Guide)

The mathematics program of study provides students with the strong mathematical knowledge and skills required to pursue higher education, to compete in a technologically oriented workforce, and to be informed citizens. Students will gain an understanding of fundamental ideas in arithmetic, measurement, geometry, probability, data analysis and statistics, algebra and functions, as well as develop proficiency in mathematics skills.

Graphing utilities, spreadsheets, calculators, computers, and other forms of electronic information technology are now standard tools for mathematical problem solving in science, engineering, business, and industry, government, and everyday living. Hence, the use of technology must be an integral part of teaching and learning. However, competence in the use of technology shall not be regarded as a substitute for a student’s understanding of quantitative concepts and relationships or for proficiency in basic computations.

The content of the mathematics program is intended to support the following five goals for students: (1) becoming mathematical problem-solvers, (2) communicating mathematically, (3) reasoning mathematically, (4) making mathematical connections, and (5) using mathematical representations to model and interpret practical situations.

 

Mathematics DEPARTMENT
Course Descriptions
ADVANCED AND ELECTIVE COURSES
MATH LINKS
McDougal Littell ClassZone
(requires text ISBN and creation of login)

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Algebra Foundations (403) 
Level of Difficulty:
Average
Credit
: 1 Unit for a Modified Standard Diploma or 1 Elective Unit

Prerequisite: Student in grade 9 with a grade of “D” or below in Pre-algebra(485)

Course Description: This course is provided for students demonstrating the need for additional preparation time before taking Algebra I. Students will be actively engaged, using concrete materials and appropriate technologies such as calculators, computers, spreadsheets, laser discs, and videos. A strengthening of the student’s ability to problem solve will be emphasized in this course. Students will be helped to develop a wide range of skills and strategies for solving a variety of problem types.

Algebra I (781)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Pre-algebra (485) or Algebra Foundations (403)
Standard of Learning End-of-Course Test:
Yes

Course Description: This course will help students make connections and build relationships between algebra and arithmetic, geometry, and probability and statistics. Connections also will be made to other subject areas through practical applications. This approach to learning algebra will help students attach meaning to the abstract concepts of algebra. The course will require students to use algebra as a tool for integrating and solving a variety of practical problems. Tables and graphs will be used to interpret algebraic expressions, equations, and inequalities as well as to analyze functions. Matrices will be used to organize and manipulate data. Graphing calculators, computers, spreadsheets, and other appropriate technology will be used as tools to assist in problem solving. Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to talk about mathematics, to use the language and symbols of mathematics in representations and communication, to discuss problems and problem solving, and to develop confidence in mathematics.

Algebra I - Part A (761)
Level of Difficulty
: Average
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Pre-algebra (485) or Algebra Foundations (403)

Course Description: This is the first course of a two-part program in Algebra I. This course is designed for students who need algebra but have difficulty with abstraction and/or basic math skills. The content includes topics that are learned in the first half of Algebra I. Graphing calculators, computers, spreadsheets, and other appropriate technology will be used as tools to assist in problem solving. Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to talk about mathematics, to use the language and symbols of mathematics in representations and communication, to discuss problems and problem solving, and to develop confidence in mathematics.

Algebra I - Part B (762)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Algebra I - Part A (761)
Standard of Learning End-of-Course Test:
Yes

Course Description: This is the second course of the two-part program in Algebra I. The content includes topics taught in the second half of an Algebra I course. Graphing calculators, computers, spreadsheets, and other appropriate technology will be used as tools to assist in problem solving. Throughout the course, students will be encouraged to talk about mathematics, to use the language and symbols of mathematics in representations and communication, to discuss problems and problem solving, and to develop confidence in mathematics.

Geometry (783)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit
: 1 Unit

Prerequisite: Algebra I (781) or Algebra I - Part B (762)
Standard of Learning End-of-Course Test:
Yes

Course Description: This course is designed for students who have successfully completed Algebra I. This course includes the properties of geometric figures, trigonometric relationships, and reasoning to justify conclusions. Methods of justification include paragraph proofs, two-column proofs, indirect proofs, coordinate proofs, and verbal arguments. Inductive and intuitive approaches to proof as well as deductive axiomatic methods also are used. The course objectives include emphasis on two- and three-dimensional reasoning skills, coordinate and transformational geometry, and the use of geometric models to solve problems. Calculators, computers, graphing utilities, and dynamic geometry software, and other appropriate technology will be used as tools for verification of solutions and for exploration.

 

Geometry - Part A (460)
Level of Difficulty
: Average
Credit:
1 Elective Unit

Prerequisite: Algebra I (781) or Algebra I - Part B (762)

Course Description: This is the first course of a two-part program in geometry. It is intended for students who have demonstrated difficulty with abstractions or algebraic thinking required to complete geometric proofs. The content includes topics found in the first half of geometry. Calculators, computers, graphing utilities, and dynamic geometry software, and other appropriate technology will be used as tools for verification of solutions and for exploration.

Geometry - Part B (461)
Level of Difficulty
: Average
Credit: 1 Unit

Prerequisite: Geometry Part A (460)
Standard of Learning End-of-Course Test: Yes

Course Description: This is the second course of a two-part program in geometry. The content includes topics found in the second half of geometry. Calculators, computers, graphing utilities, and dynamic geometry software, and other appropriate technology will be used as tools for verification of solutions and for exploration. Students will be actively engaged in learning using concrete materials and appropriate technologies. This approach to geometry will help students apply geometric concepts to real-world applications.

Algebra II (782)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Geometry (783)
Standard of Learning End-of-Course Test:
Yes

Course Description: A thorough treatment of advanced algebraic concepts is provided through the study of functions, “families of functions”, equations, inequalities, systems of equations and inequalities, polynomials, rational expressions, complex numbers, matrices, sequences and series. Emphasis will be placed on practical applications and modeling throughout the course of study. Oral and written communication concerning the language of algebra, logic of procedures, and interpretation of results also permeate this course. Included is a thorough study in transformational graphing using translation, reflection, dilation, and rotation to generate a family of graphs from a given graph demonstrating the connection between algebraic and graphic representations of functions. Graphing utilities, computers, spreadsheets, and other appropriate technology will be used as tools to assist in learning and to enhance the understanding of realistic applications through modeling and to aid in the investigation of functions and their inverses.

Algebra II – Part A (420)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit: 1 Elective Unit

Prerequisite: Geometry (783) or Geometry - Part B (461)

Course Description: This is the first course of a 2-part program of Algebra II.

The content contains topics covered in the first half of Algebra II. Graphing utilities, computers, spreadsheets, and other appropriate technology will be used as tools to assist in learning. Students will be actively engaged in learning using concrete materials and appropriate technologies.

Algebra II – Part B (421)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Algebra II - Part A (420)
Standard of Learning End-of-Course Test:
Yes

Course Description: This is the second course of a 2-part program of Algebra II. The content contains topics covered in the second half of Algebra II. Graphing utilities, computers, spreadsheets, and other appropriate technology will be used as tools to assist in learning. Students will be actively engaged in learning using concrete materials and appropriate technologies.

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ADVANCED AND ELECTIVE COURSES

Mathematics for Personal Finance (422)
Level of Difficulty
: Average
Credit:
1 Unit for Modified Standard Diploma or 1 Elective Unit

Prerequisite: Algebra 1 (781) or Algebra 1- Part A (761)

Course Description: This course includes topics of computing and understanding taxes, preparing and balancing a personal/family budget, managing debt including retail and credit card debt, examining and comparing various savings options as well as identifying consumer rights and responsibilities. Graphing utilities, computers, spreadsheets, and other appropriate technology will be used as tools to assist in learning.

Computer Math Using the Graphing Calculator (455)
Level of Difficulty
: Average
Credit
: 1 Unit

Prerequisite: Algebra I (781) or Algebra I - Part B (762)

Course Description: To provide students with course materials that address the Computer Mathematics Standards of Learning using the graphing calculator as the primary computing device. The revision of the Computer Mathematics standards in 2001 provided an opportunity to think about mathematical problem solving through computer programming while avoiding the need to dedicate a computer lab to the course. Because all high schools already have graphing calculators on hand, a computer mathematics course that could be taught using the programming capabilities of the graphing calculator would allow any interested high school to offer students the opportunity to take Computer Mathematics.

Trigonometry and Discrete Mathematics (788)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Algebra II (782) or Algebra II - Part B (421)

Course Description: A thorough treatment of trigonometry is provided through the study of trigonometric definitions, applications, graphing, and solving trigonometric equations and inequalities. Emphasis is placed on using connections between right triangle ratios, trigonometric functions and circular functions. Graphing utilities are used to enhance the understanding of realistic applications through modeling and to aid in the investigation of functions and their inverses. Discrete mathematics is the study of mathematical properties of sets and systems that have a countable (discrete) number of elements. With the advent of modern technology, discrete (discontinuous) models have become as important as continuous models. As students solve problems, they will analyze and determine whether or not a solution exists, investigate how many solutions exist, and focus on finding the best solution. Additionally, connections will be made to other disciplines.

Mathematical Analysis (785)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Trigonometry and Discrete Mathematics (788)

Course Description: This course is intended to develop student understanding of algebraic and transcendental functions, parametric and polar equations, sequences and series and vectors. The content of this course will serve as appropriate preparation for a calculus course. Graphing calculators, computers, and other appropriate software will be used by students to enhance their ability to use technological tools for investigation, and exploration, to make connections to the real world, and for solving and verifying equations and inequalities. 

Calculus - Part A (163)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit:
1 Elective Unit

Prerequisite: Trigonometry and Mathematical Analysis (162) or Mathematical Analysis (785)

Course Description: This is an introductory course intended to provide college-bound students with a working knowledge of the concepts of calculus. Students will study limits, continuity of functions, and the derivative and its applications. Graphing calculators, calculator-based labs, calculator-based rangers, probes, computer, and advanced software will be used by students to enhance their ability to use technological tools for investigation, and exploration, as well as to make connections to the real world. Emphasis will be placed on applications of differential calculus to the fields of business, engineering, and technology.

Calculus - Part B (164)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Calculus - Part A (163)

Course Description: This is a continuation of the study of calculus concepts begun in Calculus - Part A. Students will study the definite integral and its applications. Graphing calculators, calculator-based labs, calculator-based rangers, probes, computer, and advanced software will be used by students to enhance their ability to use technological tools for investigation, and exploration, as well as to make connections to the real world. Emphasis will be placed on applications of differential calculus to the fields of business, engineering, and technology.

Advanced Placement Calculus - AB (789)
Level of Difficulty
: Advanced Placement
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Calculus (786) or a grade of “B” or above in Mathematical Analysis (785)

Course Description: The purpose of this course is to prepare the student for advanced placement in college calculus. The material covered roughly equals the mathematics covered in a semester of calculus in college and is aligned with The College Board Advanced Placement Course Description Syllabus. This course is intended for students who have a thorough knowledge of analytic geometry and elementary functions in addition to college preparatory algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Graphing calculators, calculator-based labs, calculator-based rangers, probes, computer, and advanced software will be used by students to enhance their ability to use technological tools for investigation, and exploration, as well as to make connections to the real world.

Advanced Placement Calculus - BC (793)
Level of Difficulty
: Advanced Placement
Credit
: 1 Unit

Prerequisite: Calculus (786) or Advanced Placement Calculus AB (789)

Course Description: The purpose of the course is to prepare the student for advanced placement in college calculus. The material covered roughly equals the mathematics covered in two semesters of calculus in college and is aligned with The College Board Advanced Placement Course Description Syllabus. This course is intended for students who have a thorough knowledge of analytic geometry and elementary functions in addition to college preparatory algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Graphing calculators, calculator-based labs, calculator-based rangers, probes, computer, and advanced software will be used by students to enhance their ability to use technological tools for investigation, and exploration, as well as to make connections to the real world.

Calculus (786)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit
: 1 Unit

Prerequisite: Mathematical Analysis (785) or Trigonometry & Mathematical Analysis (162)

Course Description: This course is intended for students who have a thorough knowledge of analytic geometry and elementary functions. The course provides students with a study of limits, continuity of functions, the derivative and its applications, and the definite integral and its applications. Graphing calculators, calculator-based labs, calculator-based rangers, probes, computer, and advanced software will be used by students to enhance their ability to use technological tools for investigation, and exploration, as well as to make connections to the real world. This course can be used to prepare students for the rigors of Advanced Placement Calculus AB (789).

Computer Math Using the Graphing Calculator (455)
Level of Difficulty
: Average
Credit
: 1 Unit

Prerequisite: Algebra I (781) or Algebra I - Part B (762)

Course Description: To provide students with course materials that address the Computer Mathematics Standards of Learning using the graphing calculator as the primary computing device. The revision of the Computer Mathematics standards in 2001 provided an opportunity to think about mathematical problem solving through computer programming while avoiding the need to dedicate a computer lab to the course. Because all high schools already have graphing calculators on hand, a computer mathematics course that could be taught using the programming capabilities of the graphing calculator would allow any interested high school to offer students the opportunity to take Computer Mathematics.

Pre Advanced Placement Computer Science (458)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit
: 1 Unit

Prerequisite: Algebra I (781) or Algebra I - Part B (762)

Course Description: This course is intended to provide students with experiences in using computer programming techniques and skills to solve problems which can be set up as a mathematical models. Programming, ranging from simple programs involving only a few lines to complex programs with subprograms, will permeate the entire course and may include programming a graphing calculator or scripting a problem solution in a database or spreadsheet. Programming concepts, problem-solving strategies, and mathematical applications will be integrated throughout the course.

Advanced Placement Computer Science (750)
Level of Difficulty
: Advanced Placement
Credit: 1 Unit

Prerequisite: Pre Advanced Placement Computer Science (458)

Course Description: This is an advanced course in computer programming which covers the topics required by The College Board Advanced Placement Program. The JAVA programming language is studied in detail. Programming concepts, problem-solving strategies, and mathematical applications will be integrated through the course. Complex programming will permeate the entire course.

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Probability and Statistics (456)
Level of Difficulty
: Academic
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 (782) or Algebra II- Part B (421)

Course Description: The purpose of the course is to present basic concepts and techniques for collecting and analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and making predictions. Students will apply and interpret the logic of a hypothesis testing procedure. Tests will include large sample tests for proportion, mean, difference between two proportions, difference between two means (independent and paired) and Chi-square test for goodness of fit, homogeneity of proportions, and independence. This course can be used to prepare students for the rigors of Advanced Placement Statistics (161).

Advanced Placement Statistics (161)
Level of Difficulty
: Advanced Placement
Credit:
1 Unit

Prerequisite: Trigonometry and Mathematical Analysis (162) or Mathematical Analysis (785) or Probability and Statistics (456)

Course Description: This is an advanced course with the purpose to cover topics required by The College Board Advanced Placement Program. Topics include techniques for collecting and analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and making predictions.

 

Math Links
Here are some sites that offer help or educational sites related to mathematics. Some of the sites are commercial sites. A listing of the site is NOT an endorsement of the site or products that may be offered for sale at that site. The listing is offered solely as possible resources for the student and their parents.
  • McDougal Littell ClassZone - Website for current text for Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2. Access the text on-line, extra practice, and other features. Requires the book ISBN and creating an account for access.
  • Prentice Hall Mathematics - Tools for a Changing World - For students enrolled in Geometry A and Geometry B. Student and teacher resources avaible, and some other "neat" stuff link "Problem of the Week", etc. 
  • Algebrahelp.com - a commercial site which features lessons, worksheets, and other information related to algebra.
  • math.com - a commercial site with a variety of information.
  • Softronics Inc. - Home of MSWLogo, which can be downloaded FREE. 
  • Logo Foundation - "The Logo Foundation is a nonprofit educational organization devoted to informing people about Logo and supporting them in their use of Logo-based software and learning environments."
  • Ask Dr. Math - Submit a question for "Dr. Math". Sponsored by The Math Forum.
  • S.O.S. Mathematics - Help from S.O.S. Mathematics, from Algebra to Calculus and beyond.
Of Interest to Teachers   

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