Program of Studies Program of Studies 2019-2020 | Page 34
are defined in terms of ratios, are used routinely
in calculations made by surveyors, navigators,
machinists and carpenters. Trigonometric functions
also have many applications in the physical and life
sciences. Triangle solution problems, trigonometric
identities, and trigonometric equations require
knowledge of elementary algebra.
Pre-Calculus with Functions
0.5 credit
Prerequisite: Algebra II and Geometry
Students will explore mathematical models which
will include exponential, logarithmic, rational and
piecewise functions. Additional topics will include
probability and sequences and series.
Probability and Statistics
0.5 credit
Prerequisite: Algebra II and Geometry
This course, an introduction to the study of
probability, interpretation of data, and fundamental
statistical problem solving, will encourage student
awareness of the importance of mathematics in the
modern world by addressing questions like, “Why is
my automobile insurance so expensive?” Students
will explore and analyze data by observing patterns or
the absence of patterns, interpret information from
graphical and tabular displays, apply appropriate
statistical models including measures of centrality and
spread to infer information from data, and learn to use
technology in solving statistical problems.
The following course sequence is designed to provide
necessary mathematical knowledge and skills for
students who, following graduation from Thornton
Academy, plan to attend a four-year college program
and may major in a math or science field, or who may
apply to a selective four-year college regardless of
major.
Honors Algebra I
1 credit
This course provides students with the skills
necessary for the successful transition into Honors
Geometry and Honors Algebra 2. Students will gain
a thorough and extensive study of linear functions
and graphing on the xy-coordinate system. Students
will learn to graph linear equations, calculate and
identify slope, solve and graph inequalities, and work
with systems of linear equations. Students will use
equations to model and solve authentic problems,
interpret graphs, make predictions based on data, and
create graphs from a table or list of values. The course
may also include the study of quadratic functions.
Honors Geometry
1 credit
Prerequisite: Honors Algebra 1
Students will develop spatial concepts and insight
into the relationships between plane figures such as
points, lines, polygons, and circles. Students will apply
algebraic principles, including the use of coordinates,
to geometric problems and explore the measurement
of two and three-dimensional figures. The concept
of proof is a focus of this course, fostering an
appreciation of the power of logic as a tool for
understanding the world. Students will be expected to
utilize the concepts of Honors Algebra I throughout
the Honors Geometry course.
Honors Algebra II
1 credit
Prerequisites: Honors Algebra I and Honors
Geometry, or placement by instructor
This course will provide a challenge for the serious
and motivated mathematics students by focusing on
the study of functions, including linear, quadratic,
polynomial and rational functions. When studying
quadratic functions students will calculate maximum
income of a business by locating the vertex of
a parabolic graph. Throughout the year similar
examples will give students a more complete
understanding of how algebra is applicable to other
disciplines. A complete unit on conic sections
including ellipses and hyperbolas will be incorporated.
NOTE: Honors Geometry may be taken
concurrently by placement only.
Honors Pre-Calculus
1 credit
Prerequisite: Honors Algebra II and Honors
Geometry
Students will study the unifying nature of functions
with an emphasis on trigonometric, exponential and
logarithmic functions. Visualization and analysis
of graphs will help students develop insight into
mathematical ideas. The course will encourage
students to appreciate the importance of mathematics
in daily life by connecting mathematical principles
to situations in the natural world (e.g., the periodic
nature of ocean tides). Study of sequences and series
and probability will be incorporated.
Honors Statistics
1 credit
Prerequisite: Honors Pre-Calculus
Statistics is used more commonly than any other
kind of math. Students will see clearly the answer to
the question “When are we ever going to need this?”
Honors Statistics is a yearlong course that will focus
on collecting, organizing, analyzing, and interpreting
data. Topics will include exploratory data analysis,
study planning, probability, and statistical inference.