Math Courses
MATHEMATICS
Please consult the Math Department page to review the course pathways for students at https://sites.google.com/philasd.org/chsmath/information/course-descriptions
Core Mathematics Courses
Algebra I/ Algebra I Honors
This course lays the foundation needed for the study of all later mathematics courses. Some topics studied are the following; solving equations and inequalities, working with polynomials and rational expressions, graphing of functions, the quadratic equations and radical expressions. Interspersed throughout are many and varied word problems that provide opportunities to apply the material studied. The course also works to improve student’s basic number sense and ability to work confidently with rational numbers and fractional expressions.
Honors Eligibility: Incoming 9th grade students will be recommended for this course based on their performance on a placement examination given in the spring or summer.
Geometry/ Geometry Honors
This is the first mathematics course in which the student sees a mathematical system, developed from simple definitions and fundamental axioms grow into a full and useful body of knowledge. This logical development is a prime reason for the study of geometry. Topics studied include proofs of theorems about circles, triangles and quadrilaterals, as well as areas and volumes. An introduction to practical trigonometry is also included, including the laws of sines and cosines.
Algebra II / Algebra II Honors
Extending first year algebra, students explore the transformation of functions, complex numbers, the theory of polynomial equations and functions, exponential equations and functions, logarithmic equations and functions, linear and quadratic systems of three variables, matrices, conic sections, and probability.
Pre-Calculus/ Pre-Calculus Honors
Pre-Calculus introduces topics necessary for success in calculus as well as formally treating topics in discrete areas of mathematics not typically encountered in previous courses, such as sequences and series, combinatorics, the binomial theorem, and probability. Significant course time is devoted to circular angles and analytic approaches to trigonometry necessary for calculus and real applications in physics and engineering. If time permits, students will define the polar coordinate system and polar representation of complex numbers, vectors, and the concept of limits.
Calculus
This course is designed to introduce the students to the fundamental principles of differential and integral calculus. Topics covered include detailed study of limits, the derivatives of polynomial, algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions with applications to curve-tracing, maxima-minima related-rate problems, and the antiderivative. Students will also develop basic integration and its applications, including volumes of revolution.
AP Mathematics Courses
AP Calculus AB / AP Calculus BC
AP Calculus includes two courses, AP Calculus AB and AP Calculus BC, which were developed in collaboration with college faculty. The curriculum for AP Calculus AB is equivalent to that of a first-semester college calculus course, while AP Calculus BC is equivalent to the first two semester college calculus courses.
Both courses cover topics in differential and integral calculus, including concepts and skills of limits, derivatives, definite integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. BC additionally includes parametric, polar, vector functions, and series. Each course teaches students to approach calculus concepts and problems when they are represented graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally, and to make connections amongst these representations. Students learn how to use technology to help solve problems, experiment, interpret results, and support conclusions.
AP Statistics
The AP Statistics course is equivalent to a one-semester, introductory, non-calculus-based college course in statistics. The course introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. The course emphasizes understanding and analyzing statistical studies and the development of an intuitive understanding of statistics and probability. There are four themes in the AP Statistics course: exploring data, sampling and experimentation, anticipating patterns, and statistical inference. Students use technology, investigations, problem solving, and writing as they build conceptual understanding.
AP Computer Science Courses
AP Computer Science A
AP Computer Science A is equivalent to a first-semester, college-level course in computer science. The course introduces students to computer science with fundamental topics that include problem solving, design strategies and methodologies, organization of data (data structures), approaches to processing data (algorithms), analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing. The course emphasizes both object-oriented and imperative problem solving and design using Java language. These techniques represent proven approaches for developing solutions that can scale up from small, simple problems to large, complex problems. The AP Computer Science A course curriculum is compatible with many CS1 courses in colleges and universities.
AP Computer Science Principles
AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cyber security concerns, and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles also gives students the opportunity to use current technologies to create computational artifacts for both self-expression and problem solving. Together, these aspects of the course make up a rigorous and rich curriculum that aims to broaden participation in computer science.
*** A vs. Principles: What is the difference?
The AP Computer Science A course and exam focus on computing skills related to programming in JAVA. The new AP Computer Science Principles course complements AP Computer Science A and focuses on the fundamentals of computing, including problem solving, large-scale data, the Internet, and cyber-security.
As of 2019, a passing score on the AP Computer Science A exam typically gives students credit for a first semester computer programming course, while a passing score on the AP Computer Science Principles exam typically gives students credit for a one semester elective.
Other Elective Courses
Computer Science
This half-year (half-credit) course will introduce you to the field of computer science and the fundamentals of computer programming. Computer Science is specifically designed for students with no prior programming experience. Students will be introduced to the processing and JavaScript languages, along with logic, computer hardware and software, multimedia, computer security, web economics, and game design.
Statistics
This course is an introductory, non-calculus based statistics course that emphasizes understanding and analyzing statistical studies. Participants develop skills in sampling procedures, analyzing data, designing and analyzing surveys and experiments, as well as hypothesis testing. The course emphasizes the development of an intuitive understanding of statistics and probability. Students gain a sense of the importance/relevance of statistics in the real world and are able to evaluate the use and misuse of statistics.
IB Mathematics Courses
There is some content that is common with the Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations course but the Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches has a greater emphasis on calculus, numerical and algebraic approaches.
Mathematics: Applications and Interpretations SL
This one-year course emphasizes the applied nature of the subject and is designed for students who wish to understand how mathematics relates to the real world and to other subjects. This course is suitable for students who may go on to further study in subjects that utilize mathematics in this way such as social sciences, natural sciences, statistics, business, psychology or design.
The five topics below are covered during the SL course – each of these topics has sub-topics: Number and Algebra, Functions, Geometry and Trigonometry, Probability and Statistics, and Calculus.
In addition to this the course contains investigative and inquiry-based learning, supporting the students in their internally assessed exploration task.
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches SL
This one-year course is designed for students who wish to study mathematics as a subject in its own right or to pursue their interests in areas related to mathematics. It will appeal to students who are interested in exploring real and abstract applications of mathematical concepts. They will enjoy problem solving and generalization. This course is suitable for students who may go on to further study in subjects that have a significant level of mathematics content, for example mathematics itself, engineering, physical sciences or economics.
The five topics below are covered during the SL course – each of these topics has sub-topics: Number and Algebra, Functions, Geometry and Trigonometry, Probability and Statistics, and Calculus.
In addition to this the course contains investigative and inquiry-based learning, supporting the students in their internally assessed exploration task.
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches HL
This two-year course is designed for students who wish to study mathematics as a subject in its own right or to pursue their interests in areas related to mathematics. It will appeal to students who are interested in exploring real and abstract applications of mathematical concepts. They will enjoy problem solving and generalization. This course is suitable for students who may go on to further study in subjects that have a significant level of mathematics content, for example mathematics itself, engineering, physical sciences or economics.
The five topics below are covered during the SL and HL courses. Each of these topics has sub-topics with HL students covering some additional sub-topics or the same sub-topics at greater depth. Number and Algebra, Functions, Geometry and Trigonometry, Probability and Statistics, and Calculus.
In addition to this the course contains investigative and inquiry-based learning, supporting the students in their internally assessed exploration task.