Pre-Calculus

Students extend their learning from Geometry and Algebra II / Trigonometry to prepare themselves for topics in Calculus. Pre-Calculus uses the language of mathematics to express ideas precisely through reasoning, representations, and communication.
• Students investigate and identify the characteristics of trigonometric functions, polynomial functions and rational functions in order to graph these functions and solve equations and practical problems. Connections of these functions are made to previously learned topics and physics.
• Students simplify expressions and prove identities using trigonometric functions as well as use the Law of Sines and the Law of Cosines to solve problems.
• Students revisit and further deepen their knowledge of linear functions and quadratic functions. They solve three or more systems of equations using elimination and substitution methods.
• Polynomials and the relationship to power functions are investigated as well as roots, turning points, and graph analyses.
• The course uses the language of mathematics to express ideas precisely through reasoning, representations, and communication.
• Students extend their understanding of rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions from Algebra II, different aspects of discrete mathematics, including counting principles, the binomial expansion theorem, and sequences and series.
• The course concludes with the study of vectors and parametric functions and their application to the solution of real-world problems.