Mathematics Department    
 

Mr. O'Neill explaining an Algebra II problem

The study of mathematics forms the basis of logical thought and problem solving.  In an increasingly technological world, the knowledge of how mathematics is applied to present day problems is as important as the skill to apply these mathematics.  Math courses are intended to show the student the variety and depth of the topics where mathematics has made a significant impact in our present day world and to give them an appreciation for the power of mathematics as a problem-solving tool.  The following core values are fundamental to all math courses:

  • Thinking clearly and creatively.
  • Listening attentively and perceptively.
  • Applying critical thinking skills and basic arithmetic and algebraic skills to problem solving.
  • Instilling disciplined work habits.
  • Appreciating the usefulness of mathematics in understanding the real world.
  • Recognizing the application of mathematics to other fields of study.
The Math Department’s Curriculum includes:  Algebra I, Algebra II and Honors Algebra II, Geometry and Honors Geometry, Pre-Calculus and Honors Pre-Calculus, Calculus and AP Calculus, Statistics and Honors Statistics, and Discrete Mathematics.  This curriculum provides all cadets with a solid mathematics foundation to pursue their college degree of choice whether it be the math intense programs found at our nation’s service academies which several of our graduates attend or the diverse offerings found throughout the prestigious colleges in Virginia that are well attended by our graduates.   
Faculty    
Michael A. Bumbulsky
B.S., United States Military Academy; M.S., Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
 
Kurt McLaughlin
B.A., Humboldt State University; M.S., Humboldt State University 
 
M. Todd O'Neill
B.S.E., Princeton University
 
Gary D. Williams, Sr.
B.S., Concord University
Courses Offered:    

Algebra I

Level I consists of the application of the properties of real numbers to algebraic expressions and equations. Emphasis is placed on solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities, factoring and its applications, and developing and applying the properties of exponents and radical expressions. Students are taught to develop and use visual aids to problem solving, including charts, tables, graphs, and diagrams. Quadratic functions are introduced.

Prerequisite: Eighth Grade Pre-Algebra or Foundations of Algebra
Credits: 1


Geometry

Primary emphasis of this course is placed on traditional plane geometry with formal proofs. The course also includes an introduction to solid and coordinate geometries.

Prerequisite: Algebra I
Credits: 1


Geometry (Honors)

In addition to the course prescribed for regular geometry, this course covers more extensive work with areas and volumes of solids; and coordinate geometry. The course is designed to offer challenging and thought-provoking discussions and problems for the math-oriented student.

Prerequisites: B+ in Algebra II and teacher recommendation
Credits: 1


Algebra II and Honors Algebra II

In Level II, the skills and concepts of Algebra I are strengthened and expanded to include complex numbers. Additional emphasis is placed on the properties of exponents and roots, quadratic equations and functions, conics and polynomial functions. Logarithms are introduced. An honors section is available for strong math students.

Prerequisite: Algebra I
Prerequisites for honors: B+ in Algebra I; A standardized math score in the 85%tile on the SSAT, or a passing score on the Algebra I SOL test, or a passing score on the Diocesan Algebra I test, is recommended for ninth graders placed in the honors level.
Credits: 1


Algebra Functions and Data Analysis

In this course students will investigate, graph and analyze function families and their characteristics; collect data and determine the curve of best fit to predict outcomes: determine optimal values in problem situations using linear programming: explore exponential, logarithmetic and polynomial functions and explore, graph and apply trigonometric and circular functions.

Prerequisite: Algebra II
Credits: 1


Statistics

This course prepares the student to develop statistical and probabilistic reasoning skills; to use curve fitting to predict from data; to apply measures of central tendancy, variability, and correlation; to design a statistical experiment and to use sampling techniques and graphing calculators. Students needs a TI83 or later graphing calculator

Prerequisites: Three years of math including Algebra II
Credits: 1


Statistics (Honors)

This course prepares the student to develop statistical and probabilistic reasoning skills; to use curve fitting to predict from data; to apply measures of central tendancy, variability, and correlation; to design a statistical experiment and to use sampling techniques and graphing calculators. Students needs a TI83 or later graphing calculator

Prerequisites: Three years of math with B+ or higher in Algebra II, and teacher recommendation
Credits: 1 


  
Pre-Calculus

This course is designed to provide a solid foundation for those who wish to continue their study of mathematics. It covers a wide variety of topics, including algebraic, exponential and logarithmic functions; systems of equations, matrices and determinants; sequences; trigonometric functions and graphs.

Prerequisites: B in Algebra II, satisfactory score on pre-test, and teacher recommendation
Credits: 1


Pre-Calculus (Honors)

This course is designed to prepare the student to perform well in Calculus and all college-level mathematics. The course covers a wide variety of topics, including algebraic, exponential and logarithmic functions; systems of equations, matrices and determinants; sequences; trigonometric functions and graphs. A pre-test test is required.

Prerequisites: B+ in Algebra II and Geometry; PSAT math score of 53 or SAT math score of 530, satisfactory score on the Pre-Test, PLAN math score of 20, ACT math score of 22 or better, and teacher recommendation.
Credits: 1


Calculus

This is an introductory course in Calculus and is designed to prepare the student to perform well throughout the calculus sequence in college. The course covers limits and continuity, differential and integral calculus with applications, logarithmic and exponential functions, calculus of trigonometric functions and integration techniques.

Prerequisites: B+ in Pre-Calculus or Honors Pre-Calculus, math PSAT score of 53 or SAT score of 530, ACT math score of 23, satisfactory score on the Pre-Test, and teacher recommendation
Credits: 1


AP Calculus (AB)

This course is designed to prepare students for the AP Calculus AB test and to perform well throughout the calculus sequence in college. The students cover limits and continuity, differential and integral calculus with applications, logarithmic and exponential functions, calculus of trigonometric functions, advanced integration techniques and, if time permits, sequences and series.

Prerequisites: B+ in Honors Pre-Calculus, PSAT math score of 58 or SAT math score of 580, ACT math score of 23 or better, and teacher recommendation
Credits: 1


AP Calculus (BC)

In this second year AP Calculus course the students continue the study of calculus, which includes multi-variable calculus. They prepare for the AP Calculus BC Exam.

 

Prerequisites: AP Calculus AB
Credits: 1

 

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