Curriculum Detail

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Mathematics

  • Advanced Abstract Mathematics

    (Academic)  10-12 grades  0.5 credits  Fall Semester

    Not offered 2024-2025

    Students who enroll in this course should be independent learners with a strong interest in and a high aptitude for mathematics, but there is no course prerequisite.

    This course is intended to enrich the current mathematics curriculum through the study of important mathematical ideas that are not fully developed in the current curriculum. These topics may include (but are not limited to) graph theory, number theory, numerical methods, logic, classic problems, and data analysis. Through the exploration of these abstract topics, students will broaden their understanding of mathematics to become more well-rounded mathematicians. Students will have some input into the selection of topics, but the instructor will make the final determination in order to establish a cohesive theme. 
  • Advanced Algebra II

    (Academic) Grade: 10  1 credit  Year Course  Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry and approval of Mathematics Department 

    Advanced Algebra II is a challenging course designed for capable students who intend to continue their study of mathematics through Calculus. This course includes a study of the linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, rational algebraic, and polynomial functions. Students learn to approach problems algebraically, graphically, and numerically. Students use the graphing calculator extensively as a tool. The content of the course includes an emphasis on problem-solving, abstract thinking and application. Students are expected to enjoy and be serious about mathematics, to assume responsibility, and to take initiative for their own learning. A calculator from the TI-83 or TI-84 family is required.
  • Advanced Geometry

    (Academic)  Grade: 9  1 credit  Year course 

    Prerequisite: Algebra I and approval of Mathematics Department  

    Required: TI-83 or TI-84 Calculator

    Advanced Geometry is a more extensive and intensive version of geometry for capable students who expect to continue their study of mathematics through Calculus. Advanced Geometry moves at a faster pace than regular geometry and students investigate topics in greater depth. The course includes traditional Euclidean geometry, coordinate geometry, and transformational geometry, and there is a heavy emphasis on reasoning and proof.
  • Advanced Precalculus

    (Academic) Grade: 11  1 credit  Year Course  

    Prerequisite: Advanced Algebra II and approval of Mathematics Department 

    Advanced Precalculus is a challenging course in the advanced mathematics sequence. This course is designed for students who have successfully completed Advanced Algebra II and who plan to continue in mathematics through Calculus. The course includes the study of trigonometry and circular functions, mathematical modeling, probability, combinatorics, vectors, matrices, sequences and series. Solving real-world problems will be a significant part of the course. Only students who genuinely like mathematics and are willing to work hard should consider this course. A calculator from the TI-83 or TI-84 family is required.
  • Algebra I

    (Academic)  Grade: 9/10  1 credit  Year course   

    Offered Alternating Years; To be offered 2025-2026

    In Algebra I, students deepen and extend student understanding built in previous courses by focusing on developing fluency with solving linear equations, inequalities, and systems. These skills are extended to solving quadratic equations, exploring linear, quadratic, and exponential functions graphically, numerically, symbolically, and as sequences, and by using regression techniques to analyze the fit of models to distributions of data.  Students learn in collaboration with others, sharing information, expertise, and ideas.  A graphing calculator of the TI-84 family is required for the course.
  • Algebra II

    (Academic) Grades: 10-11  1 credit   Year Course   Prerequisite: Algebra I, Geometry  

    This course builds on mathematical concepts that have been presented in Algebra I and Geometry. The study of the real numbers and their properties serves as a basis for an understanding of algebra. Students will engage in an in-depth study of the concept of functions and their properties. The linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions are studied. This functional approach lends itself to real-world problem solving. The course is taught using a variety of methods ranging from students working in groups, student projects, class discussion and informal lecture. A calculator from the TI-83 or TI-84 family is required.
  • AP Calculus AB

    (Academic) Grade: 12  1 credit  Year Course  

    Prerequisite: Precalculus or Advanced Precalculus and approval of Mathematics Department  

    This is a college level calculus course with an emphasis on presenting each topic from geometric, numerical, and algebraic perspectives. Formal definitions and procedures evolve from the investigation of practical problems. Students will continue the study of functions and will develop fluency in integral and differential calculus. Students are expected to be responsible, independent learners. Graphing calculators and calculator programs facilitate development of essential concepts in this course. The TI 83+ or TI-84 calculator is required. Students will be required to take the AB Advanced Placement Calculus examination.
  • AP Calculus BC

    (Academic) Grade: 12   1 credit  Year Course  

    Prerequisite: Advanced Precalculus and approval of Mathematics Department 

    This is a rigorous Advanced Placement college level course which provides a study of functions, limits, continuity, differential and integral calculus, and more advanced topics. The course will prepare the student for the AB or BC level Advanced Placement Calculus examinations. This course moves at a quicker pace and covers more material than the AB course. Students are expected to be able to work well both independently and with others. Students are required to have a calculator from the TI-83 or TI-84 family. Students will be required to take the BC Advanced Placement Calculus examination.
  • AP Statistics

    (Academic) Grades: 11-12  1 credit  Year Course 

    Prerequisite: Algebra II or Advanced Algebra II and approval of Mathematics Department  

    This course is equivalent to the one semester non-calculus based statistics course offered by most colleges. A college statistics course is required for many majors such as psychology, sociology, the health sciences, business, political science, and economics. Topics for this course are divided into four major themes: exploratory analysis, planning a study, probability, and statistical inference. Students will become fluent users of technology and will use computers and their calculators to develop their understanding of statistical ideas. Students will learn to interpret data and to communicate clearly and effectively. Students must have a TI-83+ or TI-84 calculator to use every day in class and for assignments; other models of calculator such as TI-82, TI-85, TI-89, etc. are not acceptable. Students will be required to take the AP Statistics examination or meet the instructor's exemption requirements.
  • Linear Algebra

    (Academic)  0.5 credits  Spring Semester  12th grade

    Prereq: Adv. Precalculus
     
    Linear algebra provides a valuable framework for studying several of the ideas of calculus, computer science, statistics, and many other far-reaching realms of math and science.  The main ideas covered in this course will be row-reduction, existence and uniqueness of solutions of linear systems, vector spaces and subspaces, the rank-nullity theorem, and eigenvectors.  Students will learn how to construct a basis of eigenvectors and how to express a given linear transformation in terms of the eigenbasis.  Time permitting, the course will cover orthogonal projections and how they are related to least-squares approximations.  Every good linear algebra course has a thorough treatment of proof-writing and its logical foundations, and this course will be no exception!
  • Math/EngSem: Storytelling with Data

    (Academic)  0.5 credits  11-12 grade  Spring Semester

    Core senior English course

    Understanding and making meaning of data is essential to making sense of the world. Figuring out, then, how to interpret and communicate that data in ways that are effective and intentional, in ways that make an argument and can affect change, is the next step. In this course, students will learn a variety of creative ways to understand, represent, and talk about data; they will learn about ways that data can be interpreted– and misinterpreted. They will learn to use data as a tool of communication in concert with writing, presentations, podcasts– they will discover ways to use data and language to build arguments, tell meaningful stories, persuade, and understand how to communicate effectively to make an impact. For example, students might write an opinion article that uses data to shape their perspective; they might write a braided essay combining data, literature, and personal experience; they might present a narrative as a podcast that is based on data and fact, aiming to name a problem and possible solutions. Through a variety of case studies, students will explore questions of interest and find ways to think about the purpose and audience in their sharing of their work.
  • Mathematics of Personal Finance

    (Academic)  11-12  0.5 credits  Spring Semester

    Have you ever wondered what you needed to know to make financial decisions? The Mathematics of Personal Finance is designed to develop a strong foundation in logical thinking and problem solving that will enable students to make more informed decisions about money and finances in the future. We will use our understanding of the families of functions to explore topics such as budgeting, banking, car and homeownership, credit card financials, income taxes, and other uses of mathematics in everyday life.
     
  • Multivariable Calculus

    (Academic)  12th grade  0.5 credits  Fall Semester

    Prereq: BC Calculus 

    The ideas of calculus in one dimension are covered in BC Calculus, and they generalize readily to the study of functions of multiple variables.  This course will investigate the ideas of calculus as applied to functions of multiple variables by studying vectors, partial derivatives, tangent spaces, integration in higher dimensions, and their applications.  
  • Precalculus

    (Academic) Grades: 11-12 (see sequence) 1 credit  Year Course

    Prerequisite: Algebra II 

    The PreCalculus course is designed for students who have completed Algebra II. This course extends the ongoing emphasis on continuous mathematics by examining the linear, quadratic, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic functions from an applied point of view. The course also introduces students to some topics from discrete mathematics. These topics may include probability, combinatorics, statistics, matrices, sequences and series. Projects present opportunities for students to develop their understanding of mathematics with creative and independent activities. A calculator from the TI-83 or TI-84 family is required
  • Statistics: Lies and Power

    (Academic)  Fall Semester  0.5 credits  11-12 grades

    Not offered 22-23

    Prerequisite: Precalculus

    As we attempt to seek truth and make sense of our experience in today's world, we are constantly besieged by startling facts. Politicians, activists, journalists, and entertainers attempt to drive and shape society with clever and subtle arguments, all relying on a common tool: statisticsStatistics: Lies and Power will examine statements and claims made in popular media to prepare students to identify misuse of statistics and develop a familiarity with the tools of statistics to communicate valid information effectively. The course is intended to provide interesting insights into today's world while demystifying statistics used in mass communication. By utilizing data from mass media sources or by collecting data with their own surveys and experiments, students will have opportunities to form and critically discuss ideas using data and statistics.
  • APL Lab

    (X Block)  Quarter-length  9-12  0.25 credits  Pass/Fail

    A-P-L Lab (Academics, Planning/Prioritizing, Learning) is an individually tailored, Pass/Fail elective that provides students with learning and work support.  Students identify aspects of their learning, coursework and/or work habits that they would like to improve. A math teacher and learning specialist facilitate A-P-L Lab, conferring with students individually each week to help them progress towards their academic and learning goals. The math teacher is available to clarify math concepts, answer students’ questions while working on homework and help students prepare for math assessments. The Learning Specialist assists students with planning and revising written work, practicing brain-based learning strategies and time-management. Students use class-time to review course material and make progress on homework. As needed, they may also use class-time to consult with their teachers about course content and assignments. A-P-L Lab is open to students in 9th - 12th grade, with approval from their math teacher or advisor, and it can be taken multiple times.
  • Geometry

    Academic)  Grades: 9-10   1 credit   Year Course   Prerequisite: Algebra I   

    Required: TI-83 or TI-84 Calculator

    Geometry aims to formalize and extend the geometry that students have learned in previous courses. It does this by focusing on establishing triangle congruence criteria using rigid motions and formal constructions, building a formal understanding of similarity based on dilations and proportional reasoning, developing the concepts of formal proof, exploring the properties of two- and three-dimensional objects, working within the rectangular coordinate system to verify geometric relationships, proving basic theorems about circles, and using the language of set theory to compute and interpret probabilities for compute events.On a daily basis, students in Geometry pose questions, investigate, analyze critically, gather and construct evidence, and communicate rigorous arguments justifying their thinking. Students learn in collaboration with others, sharing information, expertise, and ideas.
  • MSON: Linear Algebra

    Academic  0.5 credit  12th grade  Fall semester  M/W 11:15-12:15

    Prerequisite: BC Calculus

    Instructor: Don Worcester, Trinity Preparatory Day School, Winter Park, FL


    A standard treatment of linear algebra as presented to university-level science and engineering majors. Course topics will include row-reduction, matrix equations, linear transformations, matrix operations, invertibility, subspaces of Euclidean space, dimension, rank, determinants (elementary product definition, expansion by minors, and row-reduction), vector spaces, null and column spaces, linear independence, bases, change of basis, eigen-theory, algebraic and geometric multiplicity, diagonalization, inner product, length, orthogonality, orthogonal sets, projections, the Gram-Schmidt process, QR-factorization, and the method least-squares. Basic programming in Python will be introduced and used to reinforce concepts and speed-up some of the more mundane computations characteristic of Linear Algebra. Regular problem sets will allow the students to practice and master the techniques introduced in class. Topic mastery will be exhibited through written and oral exams and group projects. Prior programming experience is not expected.
  • MSON: Multivariable Calculus

    (Academic)  0.5 credits  11-12 grade  Year-Long

    Monday/Wednesday, 2:30-3:30 pm EST
     
    Prerequisite: BC Calculus
     
    Instructor: Elena Zaurova, Stanford Online High School, Stanford, CA
     
    The mathematics of three dimensions is the emphasis of this college-level course. Multivariable Calculus will explore the geometry of three-dimensional space, including vector arithmetic. It will also explore three- dimensional surfaces, using the tools of derivatives and integrals expanded into multiple dimensions. A robust unit on differential equations will allow students to review the topics of single-variable calculus. The emphasis throughout the course will be on problem-solving and on real-world applications of the tools students learn in fields such as economics, astronomy, physics, engineering, and medicine.

Department Faculty

  • Photo of Cynthia Crenshaw
    Mrs. Cindy Crenshaw
    High School Math Teacher; Chair, Math Department
    (615) 321-8012
    Vanderbilt University - BS
  • Photo of Justin Fitzpatrick
    Dr. Justin Fitzpatrick
    High School Math
    Vanderbilt Univerisity - Ph.D.
    Vanderbilt University - M.S.
    Penn State University - B.S.
  • Photo of Andrew Hedman
    Mr. Andrew Hedman
    High School Math Teacher
    6153218000
    Florida Gulf Coast University - BS
  • Photo of Sarah Helms
    Sarah Helms
    High School Math Teacher
    College of Charleston - B.S
  • Photo of Jason Shuster
    Mr. Jason Shuster
    High School Math Teacher; Director of Summer Camps
    (615) 321-8000
    Middle Tennessee State University - M.Ed.
    St. John's University - B.A.
  • Photo of Teacher TBA
    Teacher TBA
  • Photo of Allison Van Konynenburg
    Allison Van Konynenburg
    High School Math Teacher
    Vanderbilt University - BS
  • Photo of Alexander Wankowicz
    Alexander Wankowicz
    Math / Science Teacher
    University of Massachusetts Amherst - BA
    University of Massachusetts Amherst - M.Ed
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