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Algebra II/Pre-Calculus

Course Overview

This course is a challenging, accelerated combination of Algebra II and Pre-Calculus. Fall semester will cover Algebra II, and spring semester will cover Pre-Calculus. The course is designed for students who:

  • Have a strong foundation in algebra and good problem-solving skills
  • Are highly motivated to learn mathematics
  • Are intrinsically motivated to succeed in this course
  • Are highly organized
  • Can take good notes
  • Have good self-advocacy skills
  • Are ready for a LOT of work

Algebra II builds on students’ knowledge of algebra and geometry as they encounter more challenging problems in newer contexts. It covers linear and quadratic functions, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, analytic geometry, graphing techniques, the use of matrices to solve systems of equations and inequalities, conic sections, and complex numbers. Students work closely with the expressions that define functions and develop their ability to model situations and solve equations.

Pre-Calculus provides the foundation for a thorough investigation into differential calculus. We start with a deep dive into trigonometry, covering ratio definitions, the unit circle and other graphical representations, identities and equations, and the law of sines and law of cosines. The course then expands upon the study of trigonometry by investigating the polar coordinate system along with graphs and vectors. In preparation for more complex topics in calculus, the course also covers parametric equations, partial fractions, systems of inequalities, and sequences and series. The last unit begins the study of limits and derivatives, providing a natural segue to the first topics of calculus.