Bellarmine Preparatory School

Students / Academics / Math


MATHEMATICS

See Algebra and Pre-Algebra Competency Exam Info

DEPARTMENT PHILOSOPHY

Mathematics education at Bellarmine strives for a proper balance between mathematical reasoning, problem solving, and computational facility. The analysis and presentation of data and the use of equations to model real phenomena are coupled with fundamental number skills and a solid understanding of standard algorithms. The use of technological tools to speed computation is put into perspective along with the ability to estimate and assure the reasonableness of solutions. Mathematical foundations begin with Algebra and Geometry courses, while the upper-level curriculum is broad, embracing the fields of Calculus and Statistics

. . . . God's universe is written with the language and characters of mathematics. --Galileo

DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS

3 credits required.  One year of algebra and one year advanced math are required for graduation.

DEPARTMENT CHAIR

Susan Flagg, flaggs@bellarmineprep.org, ext. 465


CURRICULAR PROGRAMS & PATHWAYS

Different levels of courses are offered in order to provide a pathway of mathematics that is appropriate for each individual student. All pathways are designed to meet the minimum requirements for most universities. The mathematics curriculum is designed so that all students receive the same core concepts, skills, and applications. Honors level courses go well beyond the core curriculum, providing an enriched, challenging course for students with high math ability and interest, particularly those interested in the natural/physical sciences and/or other quantitative fields. Such a course is fast-paced and exceeds the expectations of a standard college preparatory curriculum.

Other pathways of study in mathematics present strong preparation for the college-bound student. A wide range of mathematical disciplines is explored, and four years at this level are recommended for students entering any collegiate field.

Summer school may be recommended or required in order to prepare or review for one of the fundamental courses (Algebra or Geometry). Only Pre-Algebra and Algebra Review are offered in Bellarmine's summer program; upper division courses are only offered during the regular school year, and may not be available in any other summer programs in the Tacoma area. Summer school is not recommended as a way of accelerating the student's position in the curriculum. Every course has the prerequisite of completion of the previous course or its equivalent. In addition, the recommendation of the previous instructor or the Math Department is also required for every selection.

COURSES

Algebra 1
Algebra Enriched
Geometry
Geometry Honors
Algebra 2
Advanced Algebra with Trigonometry
Advanced Algebra with Trigonometry Honors
Trigonometry, Functions, and Statistics
Pre-Calculus
Pre-Calculus Honors
Introduction to Calculus
Advanced Placement Calculus AB
Advanced Placement Statistics

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS  (to come)