Mathematics

MISSION STATEMENT

The Mathematics Department of St. Thomas Aquinas High School endeavors to provide students with a rigorous foundation in mathematics and the ability to extend their mathematical knowledge to real-world problems. Through a problem-solving strategy that focuses on thought and not reaction, students are challenged to recognize the equal importance of process and product. By developing their innate mathematical talents into competence at applying mathematics, students will develop their self-confidence and gain appreciation for the value of mathematics in their lives.

COURSE OF STUDY

All students are required to complete a minimum of 3 credits in mathematics, although it is highly recommended that college-bound students acquire 4 credits in mathematics. The normal course sequence is Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Precalculus (or Trigonometry/Statistics). Ninth grade students with excellent preparation and interest in mathematics and science may take Accelerated Integrated Mathematics (covering Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II in two years), followed by Precalculus during their junior year. Advanced Placement courses in Calculus and Statistics are offered to highly motivated seniors who have demonstrated strong aptitude in previous mathematics coursework.

HONORS PROGRAM

The Mathematics Department offers Honors courses to highly-motivated students who possess strong mathematical skills. Honors courses are fast-paced, covering a great breadth of topics at considerable depth. Abstract and theoretical material is often presented, and students are expected to learn independently by utilizing the textbook and solving open-ended, non-routine problems that extend and apply material covered in class. Students in Honors courses must assume full responsibility for homework and previously-covered material, and it is assumed that students will have thoroughly mastered material covered in prior courses. Honors courses in Mathematics are designed to meet the needs of students who excel in an independent learning environment.

ENRICHED COURSES

The St. Thomas Aquinas Math Department expects that all of our students will master the core topics in college-preparatory mathematics. In setting this goal for our students, we acknowledge that some may require additional support to achieve this mastery. The Math Department offers enriched sections of core college-preparatory courses (Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II) to students who would benefit from additional support in mathematics. These sections feature small class sizes, a focus on fundamental skills, and flexible pacing to ensure mastery of the material. Students taking enriched courses are supported by volunteer student tutors drawn from upper-level math courses, the Math Team, and the National Honor Society. These enriched sections will be offered on an as-needed basis, and students will be placed in them through the course recommendation process, with input from the teacher, student, guidance counselor, and parent.

CALCULATOR POLICY

The St. Thomas Aquinas Mathematics Department considers the graphing calculator to be a tool for enhancing learning, rather than a substitute for a solid understanding of mathematical concepts. Mathematics courses make use of the TI-83+ and TI-84 graphing calculator for exploration and application of many topics. Each student is expected to acquire a graphing calculator of his/her own and bring it to class daily.

FACULTY CONTACT INFORMATION

OFFERINGS

Algebra I CP
Accelerated Integrated Mathematics I H
Geometry CP
Geometry Honors
Algebra II CP
Algebra II Honors
Finite Mathematics CP
Trigonometry and Statistics CP
Precalculus CP
Precalculus Honors
Advanced Placement Statistics
Advanced Placement Calculus
Advanced Calculus – BC and Multivariable