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Required Courses
Algebra I (1 unit of credit)
This introduction to algebra covers real numbers and their
properties, linear equations and inequalities. The course
will also introduce students to functions and graphs, systems
of equations, polynomials and their graphs, and factoring.
Other topics include algebraic fractions, exponents, radicals
and quadratic equations. Algebra is approached through real
world applications, and graphing calculator techniques are
integrated into all topics.
Geometry (1 unit of credit)
Geometry is one of the oldest branches of mathematics, but
it is still widely used today in other branches of mathematics,
the sciences, engineering, the arts, and many everyday living
tasks. It provides a unique perspective on mathematics that
many students have never before experienced since it requires
an integration of the intuitive, artistic, and spatial thinking
of the right side of the brain with the analytic, logical
style of the left side. Although geometry is quite old, it
has not remained stagnant. Revolutionary developments have
occurred throughout its history and it remains on the cutting
edge of mathematical and scientific research today. Most of
this class will deal with applications of traditional Euclidean
Geometry with emphasis on discovering geometric conjectures
using the assistance of graphing calculators and computers.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra I or
its equivalent.
Algebra II (1 unit of credit)
This course is a continuation of Algebra I. Topics include
the following: properties of real numbers; relations and functions
(and their graphs); systems of equations and inequalities
(and their graphs); properties of quadratic functions (and
their graphs). The course will also introduce students to
complex numbers, properties of radicals, and conic sections.
There will be additional work covering other functions (and
their properties and graphs), polynomials-exponential, logarithmic,
rational and irrational. Algebra II emphasizes the applications
of functions. Graphing and numeric approaches to algebra will
complement traditional analysis. Graphing calculator skills
are integrated throughout the course. Prerequisite:
Successful completion of Algebra I with at least a C- or its
equivalent or have permission from the instructor based on
satisfactory completion of additional work in math prior to
the beginning of the 2004-05 school year.
Elective
Courses
Pre-calculus (1 unit of credit)
This is a one-year pre-calculus course. It presents relations
and functions, and their graphs, including polynomial functions,
rational and irrational functions, exponential and logarithmic
functions, and trigonometric functions. It also presents conic
sections and an introduction to analytic geometry, sequences
and series. Emphasis is placed on real world problems as accessed
through the power of graphing calculators.
Prerequisite: Candidates for this course must earn a B-
or higher in Algebra II, or have permission of the instructor
based on satisfactory completion of additional work prior
to the beginning of the 2004-05 school year.
 AP
Calculus AB (1 unit of credit)
This course is an introduction to differential and integral
calculus and their applications. In addition to traditional
analytic techniques, numerical and graphical solutions to
problems will also be stressed. Graphing calculators will
be integrated throughout. This course will prepare students
to take the AB Advanced Placement Examination.
Prerequisite: Candidates for this course must earn at
least a B in Pre-calculus, and have permission of the instructor.
AP Calculus BC (1 unit of credit)
This course is a second year of Advanced Placement Calculus
leading towards the BC level AP examination. Topics covered
will include techniques of integration, differential equations,
calculus with parametric and polar equations, series, and
Taylor and Maclaurin series. Further topics in multivariate
calculus will be covered time permitting after the completion
of the BC syllabus.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of the AB level AP
Calculus course with at least a B and have permission of the
instructor.
Statistics (1 unit of credit)
This course addresses four major themes: exploratory analysis
of data, planning a statistical study, probability, and a
study of statistical inference. The exploratory analysis includes
traditional statistics gathered from univariate and bivariate
data. Real world applications are stressed especially in the
planning of a study, the gathering of data, and the use of
the tools of statistical inference. The latest graphing calculator
tools are integrated throughout the course and serve as the
primary tools for the course. This course can prepare students
for the AP Exam but additional work is required.
Prerequisite: Candidates for this course must earn a B-
or higher in Algebra II, and have permission of the instructor.
Discrete Mathematics - Open to juniors
and seniors (1 unit of credit)
Intended as a full year alternative to Pre-calculus or Calculus
for students who do not intend to major in mathematics, engineering,
or the "hard sciences," this course will give special attention
to connections between the various types of mathematics and
connections between mathematics and other disciplines. Students
considering these majors may also enroll, but they should
also take Pre-calculus and/or Calculus before graduating.
Problem solving with real world applications, the use of technology,
critical thinking and mathematical reasoning will be emphasized.
Topics may include probability, statistics, combinatorics,
matrices and their applications, and the mathematics of finance.
Prerequisite: Satisfactory completion of Algebra II. This
course WILL NOT be taught during the 2004-2005 school year.
Independent Study in Mathematics (1/2
unit of credit each semester)
This program is designed to meet the needs of a highly motivated
student who wishes to pursue an interest in mathematics beyond
the courses listed here. Examples of independent studies in
past years include using the Internet resources available
at LCS to link to a course at a major research university.
Students will work closely with a faculty mentor who will
be available for instruction and guidance.
Prerequisite: Candidates must have demonstrated a passion
for the study of mathematics and must have the permission
of the department and the Head of Upper School.
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