Math Department


 


The mathematics department at The Hanal School emphasizes the understanding of mathematics as a universal discipline for logical thinking and problem solving.  The philosophy of the mathematics department mandates the building of the necessary abstract and conceptual skills that prepare students for the continuing of mathematics education at the college level. Our approach also provides the necessary background needed for courses where mathematics is a basis for validating hypotheses and developing and supporting new theories.  The vision of the school is to integrate mathematics with the natural sciences in order for students to have meaningful and direct comprehension of the many varied applications of mathematics.  Students methodically develop their skills through analysis, logic, reasoning, creativity, and collaboration.

9th Grade

Algebra 1

Here, students develop a solid foundation of the language of algebra, including number sense and theory, equation solving, and the application of what is learned through modeling real-world situations.  Units of study in this course include: operations with numbers, variable expressions and equations, solving equations, graphing, linear and quadratic functions, exponential functions, radicals, statistics, and probability.  Students apply what they have learned in algebra to organize, graph, analyze data, and draw conclusions as part of the scientific method process during laboratory investigations related to their science courses.

 

Algebra 1 Honors

This course is more rigorous and students develop the art of problem solving.  The complexity of the problems being asked is geared towards the development of analytic, logic, and reasoning skills students will need to develop to succeed in their standardized examinations.  Class work and homework problems assigned are very challenging and among the most difficult in the text.


9th / 10th Grade

Geometry

Units of study in geometry include:  validating proofs, triangle congruence, parallel and perpendicular lines, angle sums, quadrilaterals, trigonometry of the right triangle, coordinate geometry, transformations, and probability.  Students develop the necessary abstract and conceptual thinking skills, as well as the factual information and knowledge base that will prepare them for higher level mathematical concepts and topics.

Geometry Honors

The course begins with a review of the fundamentals of algebra followed by a rigorous full year of geometry concepts that will prepare them for future courses in mathematics, as well as prepare them for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT).  Students will engage in conducting two column proofs that will develop their analytical ability and their logical reasoning skills.  Additional content covered in this course includes:  operations with fractions, further work with quadratic equations, logic, and loci.


10th / 11th Grade

 

Algebra II

The year begins with a basic review of fundamental algebra concepts that include equations and inequalities, linear and quadratic functions, and system of equations and inequalities.  Units of study in Algebra II include:  quadratic, polynomial, and radical equations and inequalities, polynomial functions, radical equations and inequalities, rational expressions and equations, exponential and logarithmic functions, conic sections, sequences and series, and probability and statistics.

Algebra II Honors

This course is designed to present algebra as a system of real and complex numbers.  In addition to the content in Algebra II, students investigate concepts of trigonometry, mathematical systems, imaginary numbers, and geometry of the circle.  This course will challenge students in many ways and students will acquire novel problem solving skills and strategies.  Students will become very proficient in comprehending the abstract nature of mathematical concepts.

Pre-Calculus

This is an introductory course to calculus.  Students begin the year with a review of algebra concepts followed by an extensive study of polynomial functions, geometry, trigonometry, matrices, and an overview of derivatives and integrals.  This course is designed for students who wish to pursue studies in business, computer science, mathematics, and science.  This course is a prerequisite to the AP Calculus course.

Pre-Calculus Honors

This is an introductory course to calculus.  Students begin the year with a review of algebra concepts followed by an extensive study of polynomial functions, geometry, trigonometry, matrices, and an overview of derivatives and integrals.  This course is designed for students who wish to pursue studies in business, computer science, mathematics, and science.  This course is a prerequisite to the AP Calculus course.

 


11th / 12th Grade

Calculus

This is an introductory course to calculus.  Students begin the year with a review of algebra concepts followed by an extensive study of polynomial functions, geometry, trigonometry, matrices, and an overview of derivatives and integrals.  This course is designed for students who wish to pursue studies in business, computer science, mathematics, and science.  This course is a prerequisite to the AP Calculus course.

 

AP Calculus AB, BC

AP Calculus is a full-year advanced placement course that prepares students for college requirements pursuant to other math and science college-level courses.  Students receive college credit through meeting certain requirements of the course work and performance on the Advanced Placement Examination in calculus.  Pre-requisites for this course include completion of algebra 1, geometry, algebra 2 / pre-calculus, and departmental approval.