Secondary Mathematics
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Mathematics is the theoretical and applied study of the orderly relationships between quantities, symbols, and shapes in the universe created by God (Psalm 8).
Our philosophy of mathematics is to equip our students with the math skills and concepts necessary to be: * wise stewards and consumers of God's resources * precise communicators of quantities and theoretical concepts * unashamed workers who are prepared for God's calling in their lives * critical thinkers who are able to make wise decisions based in biblical principles We strive to create an environment where each student can learn at a pace that is best for him or her, so the Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2 classes may each be offered at two different levels. Additionally, we recommend a couple of online tools for students at any grade. To master the basic facts, students can use the Arithmetic Game Speed Drill or print math worksheets at Math Drills. To get additional instruction and/or review of concepts, we recommend the Khan Academy. An overview of the topics in each course is provided below. 7th Grade:
Seventh grade math focuses on problem solving using estimating and a variety of other strategies. Students use the basic operations they have previously learned in whole numbers, fractions, and decimals, as well as learn about positive and negative numbers, ratios and proportions, percents, exponents, graphs, plane geometry, and measurement. Pre-Algebra: This course introduces many of the concepts, skills, and problem-solving techniques of algebra. It further emphasizing equation-solving procedures throughout the remaining chapters along with the properties of fundamental geometry and statistics. Algebra 1 and 1A: Foundations are taught for algebra, solving multi-step equations, ratios, and percents, solving inequalities, an introduction to functions, linear functions, systems of equations and inequalities, exponents and exponential functions, polynomials and factoring, quadratic functions and equations, radical expressions and equations, and rational expressions. Geometry: Concepts taught are tools of geometry, reasoning and proof, parallel and perpendicular lines, congruent triangles, relationships within triangles, polygons and quadrilaterals, similarity using ratios and proportions, similar polygons and triangles, right triangles and trigonometry, transformations, area, surface area and volume of different geometric shapes, and tangent lines, chords, arcs and inscribe angles of circles. Algebra 2 and 2A: Concepts taught are expressions, equations and inequalities, functions, equations, and graphs, linear systems, quadratic functions and equations polynomials and polynomial functions, radical functions and rational exponents, exponential and logarithmic functions, rational functions, sequences and series and quadratic relations and conic sections probability and statistics, and matrices. Advanced Math: The goal of this pre-calculus class whose goal is to prepare students for rigorous college-level classes. We start with linear equations and inequalities and then develop polynomial and rational functions, trigonometric functions, the complex number system, exponential and logarithmic functions, and statistics and data analysis. We use graphing to solve and model real world applications. We spend nearly a semester on the trigonometric functions to prepare future engineering students . Then we add sequences and series, as well as combinations and probability (as time allows). Personal Finance: This is a class designed to help students manage their money now and in the future. Students will develop critical thinking skills that emphasize biblical stewardship. The course will cover topics including credit card charges, taxes, interest on loans and savings, personal banking, and costs of transportation, food, clothing, utilities, and insurance. It also includes instruction about filling out tax forms. This class is a tool needed by every student for their financial independence. Photo credit: Joao Trindade, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ |
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