Academics: Math

The St. Francis DeSales Math Department utilizes new technologies as well as traditional methods of instruction to take students from Algebra I to Calculus. Students can get a head start on college with AP Calculus AB or AP Calculus BC, both of which are dual enrollment courses through Ohio Dominican University. The nine experienced, enthususatic and caring teachers offer a myriad of teaching styles and techniques in 3 levels of classes to meet the needs of each students.

Algebra I

This course helps the student develop an understanding of the basic structure of algebra, including equations and inequalities in one or two variables, polynomials, and graphing linear functions.

College Prep Algebra I

College Prep Algebra I helps the student develop an understanding of the basic structure of algebra and develop skills in applying algebraic concepts. Some of the topics considered are: operations with rational numbers, equations and inequalities in one or two variables, polynomials, factoring, graphing linear functions and simplifying square roots.

Honors Algebra I

This course is designed to go beyond the basic concepts. Topics are covered at a faster pace and more in-depth. Some of the topics considered are: equations and inequalities in one or two variables, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions and equations, linear and quadratic functions.

Geometry

Geometry develops a deductive mathematical system, beginning with points, lines, and planes and including parallel lines, special right triangles, the Pythagorean theorem, congruent triangles, and the distance
formula.

College Prep Geometry

This course develops a deductive mathematical system, beginning with three basic elements: points, lines, and planes. Some of the topics covered are: segments, angles, triangles, polygons, congruence, similarity, ratios, proportions, circles, and constructions.

Honors Geometry

This course develops a deductive mathematical system, beginning with three basic elements: points, lines, and planes. Some of the topics covered are: segments, angles, triangles, polygons, congruence, similarity, ratios, proportions, circles, and constructions. This course involves a heavy concentration on proofs in two-column form.

Algebra II

Algebra II is intended to help the student comprehend the function concept and to acquire facility in applying algebraic concepts and skills.

Algebra II-Trigonometry

This course is designed to enable the student to comprehend algebraic and trigonometric concepts. Some of the topics considered are: functions and relations, linear and non-linear equations and inequalities, polynomials, rational expressions and equations, irrational numbers, complex numbers, quadratic formula, polynomial functions and equations, analytic geometry and trigonometry.

Honors Algebra II-Trigonometry

Honors Algebra II-Trigonometry is intended to prepare college-bound students for Calculus. It is fast-paced and covers concepts and ideas from both Algebra
II-Trigonometry and Pre-Calculus.

Algebra III

An extension of Algebra II, this course covers matrix algebra along with further discussion of topics introduced in Algebra II. Basic trigonometry and other topics such as functions, conics, and systems of equations will be covered.

Pre-Calculus

Pre-Calculus is intended to prepare college-bound students for a first course in Calculus. Some topics considered are: polynomial functions, logarithmic functions, rational functions, and trigonometry.

Calculus

Intended to introduce seniors to different calculus topics prior to college. The main topics of Pre-calculus will be reviewed.

Calculus AP Track

Intended to accelerate the math skills of students who are intending to take AP Physics, this course is a prerequisite for AP Calculus BC, which will be preparing for the BC exam in the AP curriculum. Topics include polynomial functions, logarithmic and exponential functions, trigonometry, rational functions, limits, differentiation of algebraic, and trigonometric functions, basic integration concepts and techniques.

Calculus AB

Equivalent to Calculus I at the collegiate level. Some of the topics considered are limits, differentiation of algebraic, trigonometric, and exponential functions, applications, integral calculus with methods and applications. College credit can be earned through Ohio Dominican University.

AP Calculus BC

AP Calculus BC is approximately equivalent to two quarters of college calculus. The course of study follows the BC-AP Calculus exam preparation. Some of the topics considered are: parametric, polar, and vector functions, limits, differentiation and application, integration and applications, polynomial approximations and series. College credit can be earned through Ohio Dominican University.