Program of Studies » Mathematics

Mathematics

 
Math Department Vision Statement
 
The vision of the South Allegheny Mathematics Department is to provide quality instruction essential to maximize every student’s mathematical ability to prepare them to become responsible and productive members of an increasingly complex and technological society.  
Regular Classes
Algebra I
 
Title: Algebra I Credit: 1
Course Number: 0311 Grade: 9, 10
Prerequisite: N/A Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description
 
Students will develop problem solving skills by using algebraic terminology and various equation solving techniques. Also, students will develop the ability to interpret written information into mathematical sentences. 
PSP Algebra I
 
Title: PSP Algebra I Credit: 1
Course Number: 0313 Grade: 9, 10
Prerequisite: N/A Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description
 
Students will develop problem solving skills by using algebraic terminology and various equation solving techniques. Students will also develop the ability to interpret written information into mathematical sentences.  Finally, other topics such as dimensional analysis, direct variation and other higher level Algebra 1 skills will be incorporated.
Honors Geometry
 
Title: Honors Geometry Credit: 1
Course Number: 0315 Grade: 9
Prerequisite: "A" in Algebra I Difficulty Rating: 2
 
Description
 
Students will learn the basic definitions and principles of plane geometry in an effort to understand the relationships between various geometric figures as they pertain to congruence and similarity. The course will stress the concepts of triangles, parallel lines, polygons, and other solids. Students will also strengthen their critical thinking and logical skills. They will also reinforce their knowledge of algebraic concepts.
Geometry
 
Title: Geometry Credit: 1
Course Number: 0323 Grade: 9, 10
Prerequisite: Algebra I Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description
 
Students will learn the basic definitions and principles of plane geometry in an effort to understand the relationships between various geometric figures as they pertain to congruence and similarity. The course will stress the concepts of triangles, parallel lines, polygons, and other solids.
Algebra II
 
Title: Algebra II Credit: 1
Course Number: 0321 Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Geometry Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description
 
Students will study the advanced concepts of algebra including:  linear functions, systems of equations, quadratic equations/functions, conic sections, and rational functions.  Students will continue to enhance their equation-solving and problem-solving skills.
Honors Algebra II
 
Title: Honors Algebra II Credit: 1
Course Number: 0322 Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: "A" or "B" in Geometry Difficulty Rating: 2
 
Description
 
Students will study algebraic concepts such as: linear functions, systems of equations, quadratic equations/ functions, conic sections, and rational functions. Students are also introduced to the topics of compound probabilities, exponential and polynomial functions, and other advanced algebraic concepts. Students will also work to enhance their equation and problem-solving skills.
Pre-Calculus
 
Title: Pre-Calculus Credit: 1
Course Number: 0331 Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: "C" or better in Algebra II Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description
 
This course takes an in-depth yet slower pace look at the characteristics, properties, graphs, application, and behavior of quadratic, polynomial, exponential, logistic, and trigonometric functions.  Other topics include Vectors, Matrices, Conic Sections, Polar Coordinates, Sequences and Series, and Statistics.
Honors Pre-Calculus
 
Title: Honors Pre-Calculus Credit: 1
Course Number: 0332 Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: "C" or better in Algebra II Difficulty Rating: 2
 
Description
 
This course takes an in-depth look at the characteristics, properties, graphs, application, and behavior of quadratic, polynomial, exponential, logistic, and trigonometric functions.  Other topics include Vectors, Matrices, Conic Sections, Polar Coordinates, Sequences and Series, and Statistics.
Calculus
 
Title: Calculus Credit: 1
Course Number: 0342 Grade: 12
Prerequisite: "C" or better in Pre-calculus or Honors Pre-Calculus Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description
 
This course is primarily concerned with developing the students' understanding of the concepts of calculus and providing experience with its methods and applications. The course emphasizes a multi-representational approach to calculus with concepts, results, and problems being expressed graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally. The three big ideas are limits, derivatives, and integration.
AP Calculus
 
Title: AP Calculus Credit: 1
Course Number: 0340 Grade: 12
Prerequisite: "C" or better in Pre-Calculus Difficulty Rating: 3
 
Description
 
AP Calculus is primarily concerned with developing the students’ understanding of the concepts of calculus and providing experience with its methods and applications. The courses emphasize a multi-representational approach to calculus, with concepts, results, and problems being expressed graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally. The connections among these representations also are important.
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Probability and Statistics
 
Title: Probability and Statistics Credit: 1
Course Number: 0333 Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: Passing grade in Algebra II Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description
 
This course is an introduction to Probability and Statistics.  This class will study the basic tools of probability theory and statistics.  It is designed to provide a basic understanding of descriptive and inferential statistics. Topics include the measures of central tendency, standard deviation, combinations and permutations, probability, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, sampling, variance, regression, and various discrete and continuous probability distributions.
Electives
Computer Science Principles
 
Title: Computer Science Principles Credit: 1
Course Number: 0304 Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: N/A Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description
 
This course covers a broad range of foundational topics such as programming, algorithms, the Internet, big data, digital privacy and security, and the societal impacts of computing. This course is designed to be an introduction to computer science.
AP Computer Science Principles
 
Title: AP Computer Science Principles Credit: 1
Course Number: 0305 Grade: 11, 12
Prerequisite: N/A Difficulty Rating: 3
 
Description
 
This course covers a broad range of foundational topics such as programming, algorithms, the Internet, big data, digital privacy and security, and the societal impacts of computing. This course is designed to be an introduction to computer science.
Honors Calculus (CIHS)
 
Title: Honors Calculus (CIHS) Credit: 1
Course Number: 0340 Grade: 12
Prerequisite: “C” or better in Pre-Calculus Difficulty Rating: 2
 
Description

The Honors Calculus course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of differential calculus. Students explore the fundamental concepts of functions, limits, and derivatives, learning how to compute derivatives using various differentiation rules. Emphasis is placed on understanding the derivative as a measure of change and its applications in real-world scenarios such as optimization and related rates problems. The course also covers the basics of integral calculus, including antiderivatives and definite integrals. Through a combination of theoretical explanations and practical problem-solving exercises, students develop analytical skills and mathematical reasoning abilities essential for success in higher-level mathematics and related fields. Skills and mathematical reasoning abilities essential for success in higher-level mathematics and related fields.

Information Technology Fundamentals
 
Title: Information Technology Fundamentals Credit: 1
Course Number:   Grade: 9-12
Prerequisite: None Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description

This course offers a foundational understanding of essential IT concepts and terminology, ideal for those new to the field or transitioning into IT careers. It covers a range of topics including hardware, software, networking, security, and database fundamentals.

PC Pro & A+
 
Title: PC Pro & A+ Credit: 1
Course Number:   Grade: 9-12
Prerequisite: None Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description

This course is designed to validate the foundational skills and knowledge required for entry-level IT professionals. It covers a wide range of topics related to hardware, software, networking, security, troubleshooting, mobile devices, cloud computing, and professionalism.

SAT Prep
 
Title: SAT Prep Credit: .5
Course Number: 0954 Grade: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: N/A Difficulty Rating: 1
 
Description
 
This course will require students to practice all sections of the SAT test.  Four sections involve mathematics. Three sections involve reading and grammar. Improvement of performance within each section is the goal.  Students will constantly improve their vocabulary by mastering an ongoing list of words that adapt in difficulty to their understanding.  Students’ grades are based mostly on their completion of vocabulary words and practice questions.  An ongoing minimum set of requirements in each category is monitored as students will work at their own pace.
Learning Support staff in our Math Department co-teach with our teachers in basic mathematics classes and are present during classroom instruction.