Course Descriptions:
Algebra I
Algebra I aims to deepen and extend student understanding built-in previous courses by focusing on developing fluency with solving equations and inequalities and systems; extending these skills to solving quadratic and exponential functions; exploring functions, including sequences, graphically, numerically, symbolically and verbally; and using regression techniques to analyze the fit of models to distributions of data. On a daily basis, students use problem-solving strategies, questioning, investigating, analyzing critically, gathering and constructing evidence, and communicating rigorous arguments justifying their thinking. Students learn in collaboration with others, sharing information, expertise, and ideas. The course is well balanced between procedural fluency (algorithms and basic skills), deep conceptual understanding, strategic competence (problem solving), and adaptive reasoning (extension and transference).
A school-owned TI-84 graphing calculator will be used in this course. $5 course fee - OR - four AAA batteries will be collected from each student using a school graphing calculator. Students are also required to have blue-lined graph paper for class.
Stem Math
Prerequisites: Algebra 1 or Instructor Approval. This course is required while participating in the 10th Grade STEM Program. The 10th Grade STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Program is a unique opportunity for students to start preparing for a career in manufacturing, engineering, and other skilled trades while still in high school. This one-year program provides the opportunity for 10th grade students to be engaged in an “in-house” manufacturing experience where individuals will fill specific roles within the organization in order to collectively produce a marketable product and/or service. The program will run for two consecutive periods each day. Participation in the program will be based on an application, recommendation, and an interview process for limited enrollment. Applications may be obtained from a Tech Ed teacher. Students will earn core course credits in Mathematics and Science, and are required to take a recommended math course concurrently with the STEM Math. The core courses taught within the STEM Program include Machine Tool Math and Physical Science. A combination (as needed) of Technical Education skills in Machine Tooling, Electronics, Woodworking, Automotive, and Principles of Engineering will be relied upon and taught for the success of the program.
Geometry
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I. This course calls on students to use their logical and analytical skills to solve a variety of problems. Topics include: triangle relationships, measuring areas and perimeters, right triangle trigonometry, volumes and surface areas of solids, parallel lines and related angles, proving triangles congruent, quadrilaterals, similarity, and circles. Proficiency in geometry is needed for success on the ACT and SAT. Daily assignments are given. Note: A school-owned TI-84 graphing calculator will be used extensively throughout this course. $5 course fee OR four AAA batteries will be collected from each student using a school graphing calculator.
Algebra II
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I and Geometry. Algebra II aims to apply and extend what students have learned in previous courses by focusing on finding connections between multiple representations of functions, transformations of different function families, finding zeros of polynomials and connecting them to graphs and equations of polynomials, modeling periodic phenomena with trigonometry, and understanding the role of randomness and the normal distribution in making statistical conclusions. On a daily basis, students use problem solving strategies, questioning, investigating, analyzing critically, gathering and constructing evidence, and communicating rigorous arguments justifying their thinking. Students learn in collaboration with others, sharing information, expertise, and ideas. The course is well balanced between procedural fluency (algorithms and basic skills), deep conceptual understanding, strategic competence (problem solving), and adaptive reasoning (extension and transference). Note: A school-owned TI-84 graphing calculator will be used extensively throughout the course. $5 course fee OR four AAA batteries will be collected from each student using a school graphing calculator.
Probability and Statistics
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. This is an introductory course where students learn counting methods, probability, expected value, descriptive statistics, sampling methods, confidence intervals, experimental design, graphs of data, statistical inference, linear regression, and the normal curve. A heavy emphasis on using technology (graphing calculators and computers) is applied throughout the course. All students would be encouraged to take this course before or after Pre-Calculus, but this course is not a prerequisite for Calculus. Note: A school-owned TI-84 graphing calculator will be used extensively throughout this course.
Functions, Statistics and Trigonometry
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra II. This course is designed as a college prep course for the student who is not necessarily majoring in a mathematics or science field. Successful completion of this course should prepare the student for Pre-Calculus or Calculus. The topics covered include statistics and a wide variety of functions with heavy emphasis on circular and trigonometry functions. Note: A school-owned TI-84 graphing calculator will be used extensively throughout this course.
Pre-Calculus
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II. 9th graders are not eligible to take this course unless recommended by TAG (Talented & Gifted) Course Plan.
THIS IS A PRIME CLASS – STUDENT MUST COMPLETE A PRIME COURSE CONTRACT.
This course is designed for college-bound students, no matter what their area of interest is. Specific topics covered will be functions and their graphs, inverse functions and relations, solving of equations of various degrees, transformation of functions, composite, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic and rational functions, unit circle and analytical trigonometry, parametric and polar equations. Mathematical modeling and real life applications are integrated throughout each unit. Note: A graphing calculator is required for this class. A TI-83 or TI-84 is recommended.
Math Test Prep
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Geometry. Algebra II is strongly recommended prior to taking this course but not required. This course will prepare students for taking the mathematics portion of standardized tests. Juniors will find this class helpful in preparing for the ACT, and Seniors will find it advantageous in preparing for college placement tests. Pre-Algebra, Elementary Algebra, Intermediate Algebra, Coordinate Geometry, Plane Geometry and Trigonometry will be reviewed. Students will learn helpful test-taking strategies and problem-solving techniques. They will also practice taking multiple-choice tests and gain confidence in taking timed math tests. Through practice, this class should help to reduce a student’s anxiety toward taking standardized tests. Students have the option to purchase a “The Real ACT” workbook (approximately $20).
Madison College - Elementary Algebra
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Geometry. This course offers traditional algebra topics with applications. Learners develop algebraic problem-solving techniques needed for technical problem solving and for more advanced algebraic studies. Topics include linear equations, exponents, polynomials, rational expressions, and roots and radicals. Successful completion of this course prepares learners to succeed in technical mathematic courses.
Math 143 - Finite Mathematics for Business and Social Sciences
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Pre-Calculus plus students must meet UW Whitewater requirements of a minimum of 3.25 cum GPA or Top 25% of class.
THIS IS A PRIME COURSE – STUDENTS MUST COMPLETE A “PRIME COURSE CONTRACT”.
Mathematical preparation for the understanding of various quantitative methods in modern management and social sciences. Topics included are sets, relations, linear functions, interest, annuities, matrix theory, the solution of linear systems by the graphical, algebraic, Gauss-Jordan, and inverse methods, linear programming by graphical and simplex methods, counting and probability, and decision theory. FERPA laws regarding Student Privacy apply.
STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF THE TUITION WHICH IS APPROXIMATELY $300 (BASED ON UW WHITEWATER TUITION RATES FOR THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR.) TUITION MUST BE PAID TO PCSD BY SEPTEMBER 30.
AP Calculus
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and Pre-Calculus.
THIS IS A PRIME COURSE – STUDENTS MUST COMPLETE A “PRIME COURSE CONTRACT”.
This course will discuss the topics covered in a first semester college Calculus class, including functions, limits, derivatives, and integrals. Emphasis will be placed on application problems and analysis of results. This course is recommended for students who will take Calculus in college. This course prepares students to take the highly recommended Advanced Placement (AP) exam (cost is approximately $94). Note: A graphing calculator is required for this class. A TI-84 is recommended.
Math 355 - Matrices and Linear Algebra
Prerequisites: Successful completion of AP Calculus plus students must meet UW Whitewater requirements of a minimum of 3.25 cum GPA or Top 25% of class.
THIS IS A PRIME COURSE – STUDENTS MUST COMPLETE A “PRIME COURSE CONTRACT”.
Systems of linear equations, matrices and determinants, finite dimensional vector spaces, linear dependence, bases, dimension, linear mappings, orthogonal bases, and eigenvector theory. Applications stressed throughout. FERPA laws regarding Student Privacy apply.
STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF THE TUITION WHICH IS APPROXIMATELY $300 (BASED ON UW WHITEWATER TUITION RATES FOR THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR. TUITION MUST BE PAID TO PCSD BY SEPTEMBER 30.
NOTE: To verify that any college course credit will transfer to a particular UW College System campus, go to UW Help's "Transfer Information System" website at https://www.tis.uwsa.edu
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