• Why Study Math?

    Math is not just calculation and formulas. The study of mathematics helps students develop critical thinking and problem solving skills, discover patterns and order in the world, develop logical arguments, and make valid inferences. The aim of all mathematics courses is to help students see and understand mathematical relationships, reason logically, and use mathematical strategies to solve real-world problems.

    Graduation Requirements:

    In 2007 the State of Oregon raised the number of math credits required for an Oregon Diploma from 2 credits to 3. The new requirements took effect fully in 2014 and required that the  3 math credits must be at the Algebra I content level and higher. In addition, all students must meet the Essential Skills requirement. For more information about graduation requirements for an Oregon High School Diploma click here.

    Calculators

    We use graphing calculators in all of our math classes. Our recommendation is a TI-83 Plus but if you have an older TI-83 laying around or you purchase a TI-84 Plus they will also meet the requirement. Most students get a calculator at the start of 8th or 9th grade and use it for class work, homework, and assessments in math and science through all four years of high school.

    Math Courses Flow Chart

    Below are some typical pathways for students to earn the required 3 math credits. Students who plan on attending college/university should consider either the Traditional or Advanced pathway. Please speak with Counseling or someone in the Math Department for questions about which math classes you should take.

    Math Flow Chart

    Notes:

    ++ College Credit Course

    + Algebra Foundations will not be accepted by most universities as a math credit. Students starting on the Alternative Path
    who wish to be 4-year University bound need to notify their Algebra Foundations teacher within one month of beginning
    class. The teacher will then monitor progress and could make additional recommendations.

    See the Curriculum Guide for more information

    Course Descriptions

  • Algebra 1
    1 Credit
    Grades: 9-11
    Prerequisites: Placement Test

    This is a basic course in abstract reasoning as it relates to
    our number system. Topics include variables and
    variable expressions, integers, solving equations and
    inequalities, polynomials, rational and irrational
    numbers, and linear and quadratic functions. Algebra 1
    is the prerequisite for all other math courses. You must
    pass both semesters plus 2 other math classes to
    graduate.

     

    Algebra 2
    1 Credit
    Grades: 9, 11-12
    Prerequisites: Algebra I or Placement Test
    College Credit Available

    The course is designed to build understanding of the
    concepts that provide a strong foundation for future
    courses. The course will connect Algebra to the real
    world and to other subjects, involve students in
    exploration and discovery of math concepts and assess
    student’s progress in ways that support learning. The
    course uses functions as a unifying theme with emphasis
    on graphing and the relationship between graphs and
    equations.

     

    Algebra Foundations
    1 Credit
    Prerequisites: Placement Test Grades: 9-10

    A course designed to bridge the gap between 8th grade
    math/Pre-Algebra and Algebra 1, covering topics such as
    proportions, ratios, solving one, two, and multi-step
    equations, inequalities, and other math skills to prepare
    for future math courses. This an alternative course to
    Algebra 1, which individualizes instruction through
    Algebra 1 standards.

     

    Algebra Projects
    0.5 Credit
    Grades: 10-12
    Prerequisites: Algebra I or Algebra Foundations


    This course combines Algebra 1, Geometry and some
    Algebra 2 skills in solving real-world application
    problems.

    Geometry
    1 Credit
    Grades: 10-12
    Prerequisites: Algebra 1


    Geometry is the study of the relationships between lines,
    angles, and other geometric figures. Emphasis is on
    deductive reasoning and the writing of proofs relating to
    the logical developments of geometry. Recommended
    for college bound students.

     

    Geometry Projects
    0.5 Credit
    Grades: 10-12
    Prerequisites: Algebra 1 or Algebra Foundations


    This class uses geometry concepts and skills to complete
    projects based on real-life applications.

     

    Informal Geometry
    1 Credit
    Grades: 10-12
    Prerequisites: Algebra 1 or Algebra Foundations


    This course will develop the basic concepts and the
    applications of geometry, without the rigors of proof
    writing. This will include practical applications, problem
    solving, hands on activities and projects.

     

    Math Block
    0.5 Credit
    Grades: 9-12
    Prerequisites: Enrolled in a Mathematics course


    This is a class for a student who is really busy and needs
    time to work on math or for students struggling in math
    that need help while working on math homework.

  • AP Calculus AB
    1 Credit
    Grades: 11-12
    Prerequisites: Trigonometry
    College Credit Available


    Calculus courses include the study of derivatives,
    differentiation, integration, the definite and indefinite
    integral, and applications of calculus. Typically, students
    have previously attained knowledge of pre-calculus
    topics (some combination of trigonometry, elementary
    functions, analytic geometry, and math analysis).

     

    AP Calculus BC
    1 Credit
    Grades: 12
    Prerequisites: AP Calculus AB
    College Credit Available


    An extension of AP Calculus AB with more techniques for
    Taylor series, parametric equation, integration by parts,
    polar coordinate function and curve interpolations.

     

    Coding with Python
    0.5 Credit
    Grades: 10-12
    Prerequisites: Algebra 1 or Algebra Foundations


    This is a course in applying mathematical and analytical
    thinking to computer programming. In the course,
    students learn how to use the Python 3 programming
    language to solve mathematical problems. Students will
    also get an introduction to basic electronics by building
    and programming a number of projects using the
    Raspberry Pi computer platform. This course will apply
    Algebra 1 and Geometry concepts, so a familiarity with
    these topics is encouraged.

     

    College Algebra/Trigonometry
    1 Credit
    Grades: 11-12
    Prerequisites: Alg 2 & Geometry
    College Credit Available


    The College Algebra course examines functions and
    related inequalities using a graphing calculator. Students
    will focus on polynomial, rational, exponential,
    logarithmic and related piecewise defined functions. This
    course includes a study of the complex number system,
    the algebra of functions, the applications of functions in
    sequences and series. High-order linear systems will be
    solved using a calculator. For Trigonometry it is expected
    that you understand the theorems, corollaries and
    postulates from geometry and be able to do rudimentary
    proofs. It is also expected that you have an
    understanding of functions, fractions and solving
    equations by a variety of means as learned in Algebra 2.

     

    Senior Math Essential Skills (ES) Lab
    0.5 Credit
    Grade: 12th only
    Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation only


    This class is specifically designed for seniors who have
    yet to meet their essential skill requirements in math.
    Students will begin the year by identifying his or her own
    weaknesses and finding strategies to fix these.
    Throughout the semester students will track
    improvements until the requirements have been met
    through state testing or work samples.

     

    Statistics
    1 Credit
    Grades: 11-12
    Prerequisites: Algebra 2


    This is a class designed to introduce probability and
    statistics. We will address both theoretical problems and
    explore statistics in our everyday lives. Topics include
    random samples, organizing data, averages and
    variation, probability theory, and distributions.

     

    Transitional Algebra
    1 Credit
    Grades: 11-12
    Prerequisites: Algebra 1 or Algebra Foundations;
    Geometry, or Informal Geometry


    Transitional Algebra reviews and extends algebra
    concepts for students who have already taken Algebra 1
    and Geometry. Transitional Algebra includes a study of
    linear and quadratic equations and expands this to a
    study of general parent functions for cubic, exponential,
    hyperbolic, and radical functions. Sequences and series
    are introduced as well as properties of higher degree
    functions.