The American Academy

The major emphases of the Pre-Algebra course are rational numbers, proportionality, measurement, data collection and analysis, probability, and beginning algebra concepts that serve as a transition into formal algebra and geometry. Students will develop a deep understanding of rational number concepts, become proficient in rational number computation, and learn to think flexibly about relationships among fractions, decimals, and percents.

The main goal of Geometry is for students to develop the structure of Euclidean geometry logically and apply the resulting theorems, proofs, and formulas to address meaningful problems. Students will use experimentation and inductive reasoning to construct geometric concepts, discover geometric relationships, and formulate conjectures. Students will employ deductive logic to construct formal logical arguments and proofs. Students will extend their pre-existing experiences with algebra and geometry to trigonometry and coordinate geometry. Students will use dynamic geometry software, compass and straightedge, and other tools to investigate and explore mathematical ideas and relationships and develop multiple strategies for analyzing complex situations. Students will apply mathematical skills and make meaningful connections to life’s experiences.

Pre-calculus fills the minimum mathematics course requirement for students who plan to participate in post-secondary training. It also serves as the prerequisite for Advanced Placement Calculus or Statistics courses. In preparation for this course, students should have mastered linear and quadratic functions, concepts from discrete mathematics involving sequences and series, and data analysis and probability techniques. They should also be able to confidently work with expressions containing rational exponents and radical and rational terms.

Students in Elementary Algebra will learn algebra as a style of thinking for formalizing patterns, functions, and generalizations. In this course, students will expand previously learned quantitative rational number relationships to include the irrational numbers.

Algebra II will build upon the knowledge previously learned in Algebra I and Geometry. It will provide students with the reasoning skills necessary for many careers the mathematical tools they will need to be successful in advanced mathematics classes.

A course in calculus consists of a full academic year of work in calculus and related topics comparable to courses in colleges and universities.