Brentwood Academy
Mathematics Department Course Descriptions
Middle School
Mathematics 6
This course follows a sequentially arranged course of study. Using entering sixth grade students’ prior knowledge in the areas
of standard operations with whole numbers, decimals, fractions and integers, the course continues student learning to include
ratio, proportion, percent, geometry, data analysis, and pre-algebra skills. Some class work will be done in collaborative
groups, using visual representations of concepts and operations to develop students’ reasoning ability. The computer
component enhances students’ understanding of mathematical concepts, as it records progress and individualizes learning
paths. This approach provides self-pacing options to students.
Mathematics 6 Honors
This course follows a sequentially arranged course of study. Using entering sixth grade students’ prior knowledge in the areas
of standard operations with whole numbers, decimals, fractions and integers, the course continues student learning to include
ratio, proportion, percent, geometry, data analysis, and pre-algebra skills. Some class work occurs in collaborative groups,
using visual representations of concepts and operations to develop students’ reasoning ability. The computer component
enhances students’ understanding of mathematical concepts, recording progress and individualizing learning paths, and
provides self-pacing options to students.
Pre-Algebra 7
This course is designed to help students’ transition to algebra I. While reinforcing and reviewing math concepts and skills,
the student is challenged with algebraic expressions, integers, solving equations, factors, ratios, proportions, and geometry
concepts.
Pre-Algebra 7 Honors
This course is designed to help students’ transition to algebra. While reinforcing and reviewing math concepts and skills,
students are challenged with algebraic expressions, integers, solving equations, factors, ratios, proportions, and geometry
concepts. This course also includes a basic introduction to linear functions, graphing and radicals.
Pre-Algebra 8
This course emphasizes mastery of basic math skills in addition to beginning algebra skills. Pre- algebra concepts such as
variables, integers, equation solving, problem solving, coordinate plane, solving inequalities, and radicals will be included in
this course. Basic geometry skills involving area and volume will also be explored. This course is designed to provide a solid
foundation for Algebra I.
Algebra I
In Algebra I, there will be a continual striving for mastery in basic math fundamentals. Test taking strategies and study
skills will be taught and reinforced. Concepts covered include the properties of mathematics, order of operations, steps
to solving equations, solving linear equations, graphs and functions, four operations with rational numbers, probability,
square roots and radicals, ratios and proportions and percent formulas. The coordinate plane will be explored by
learning different ways to graph linear equations, slope, parallel and perpendicular lines, and using point-slope form,
slope-intercept form, and standard form. Other topics include solving systems of linear equations and inequalities,
operations with polynomials and factoring.
Algebra I Honors
In Algebra I Honors, students will prove mastery of basic arithmetic skills, and fundamentals will be reinforced. Strategies
will be taught to bring success in standardized testing. Concepts covered include the properties of mathematics, solving
equations, strategies of solving word problems, the four operations with polynomials and algebraic fractions, factoring
patterns, ratios, proportions, percent, and exponents. More topics include solving and graphing linear and quadratic
functions, tables graphs, inequalities, systems of linear equations and inequalities, and operations involving radicals.
Geometry Honors
Geometry Honors course challenges students to explore and discover mathematical properties. Through intense problem
solving, students will strengthen their ability to think logically and work cooperatively. Students will learn to prove theories,
expand upon their knowledge of algebra skills and explore the mathematical properties of the following: points, lines, planes,
polygons, transformations, circles, and three-dimensional figures.
Upper School
Algebra I
In Algebra I, there will be a continual striving for mastery in basic math fundamentals. Test taking strategies and study
skills will be taught and reinforced. Concepts covered include the properties of mathematics, order of operations, steps
to solving equations, solving linear equations, graphs and functions, four operations with rational numbers, probability,
square roots and radicals, ratios and proportions and percent formulas. The coordinate plane will be explored by
learning different ways to graph linear equations, slope, parallel and perpendicular lines, and using point-slope form,
slope-intercept form, and standard form. Other topics include solving systems of linear equations and inequalities,
operations with polynomials and factoring.
Geometry
In the first semester, basic geometric shapes will be examined: points, lines, planes, angles, triangles, and quadrilaterals.
Logical thinking will be developed by the use of proofs. In the second semester, time is devoted to similarities, right triangles
and trigonometry, arcs and chords in circles, areas, and coordinate geometry.
Geometry Honors
Geometry Honors course challenges students to explore and discover mathematical properties. Through intense problem
solving, students will strengthen their ability to think logically and work cooperatively. Students will learn to prove theories,
expand upon their knowledge of algebra skills and explore the mathematical properties of the following: points, lines, planes,
polygons, transformations, circles, and three-dimensional figures.
Algebra II
This course includes the study of real numbers, algebraic expressions, functions, linear equations and inequalities, graphing,
systems of linear equations and inequalities, and related applications. This course also includes the study of quadratics,
polynomial expressions, quadratic equations and inequalities, rational expressions and equations, radical expressions and
equations, and matrices. The TI-83 or TI-84 Plus calculator is required and used throughout the course.
Algebra II Honors
Algebra II Honors enriches the same material as Algebra II by applying the concepts to problems that require higher order
thinking skills. Algebra II Honors seeks to build a strong mathematical foundation for students who will take PrecalculusHonors and Calculus-AP. The graphing calculator will be used extensively. Topics covered include equations, inequalities,
systems of equations, relations and functions, polynomials, polynomial equations and functions, rational expressions and
functions, irrational and complex numbers, quadratic equations and functions, analytical geometry, conic sections, rational
exponents, exponential functions, logarithms, logarithmic functions, and matrices.
Advanced Algebra/Trigonometry
Advanced Algebra and Trigonometry is designed to reinforce algebraic concepts and prepare the student for the next level
of mathematics. The ideas covered are ACT/SAT test preparation, trigonometry, conic sections, exponential and
logarithmic functions, probability, statistics, family of functions and polynomial functions.
Precalculus
The primary objectives of Precalculus are to help students understand the fundamental concepts of algebra, trigonometry, and
analytic geometry; to foreshadow important ideas of calculus; and to show how algebra and trigonometry can be used to model
real-life problems. Topics covered include trigonometry, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, arithmetic and
geometric sequences, rational functions, continuity, difference quotient, and introductory limits.
Precalculus Honors
The Precalculus Honors course prepares students in such important areas as graphical techniques, algebraic and
transcendental functions, and analytic geometry. Students will gain a deep understanding of the fundamental concepts and
relationships of functions, acquire a solid foundation in algebra and trigonometry, learn how algebra and trigonometry can
model and solve authentic real-world problems, and learn problem-solving skills, while fostering critical thinking.
Precalculus Honors provides a bridge to AP Calculus.
Calculus/Statistics
The Calculus/Statistics course offers college-preparatory seniors an opportunity to experience the content of three of the most
common introductory college mathematics courses: college algebra, statistics, and calculus. Topics for the semester of calculus
include algebraic procedures, function analysis, limits, derivatives and their applications. Topics for the semester of descriptive
statistics include data analysis, measures of center, position and variation, counting procedures and probability, normal distribution,
and correlation and regression.
AP Calculus AB
Advanced Placement Calculus AB develops methods for solving two large classes of problems: 1) finding the rate at which a
variable quantity is changing (differential calculus) and 2) finding a function when its rate of change is given (integral
calculus). This includes problems regarding slopes of curves, area between curves, volumes of solids, optimization, motion and
linearization. The goals of the course include the following: a) to understand and be able to apply calculus concepts; b) to
make connections among previously learned topics and calculus concepts; c) to understand the relationship between
analytical and graphical representations of problems; d) to be able to communicate ideas effectively, both in written and
verbal form; e) to become literate in mathematics by strengthening reading comprehension of mathematical text; and f) to
strengthen algebraic skills through the use of calculus.
AP Calculus BC
Advanced Placement Calculus BC includes all concepts and methods of Advanced Placement Calculus AB and adds more
advanced calculus concepts. Additional calculus concepts to Calculus AB include integrating polar, parametric and vector
quantities, representing a function using a Taylor and McLaurin series, evaluating improper integrals and an in depth
understanding of the logistic differential equations. The goals of the course include the following: a) to understand and be
able to apply calculus concepts; b) to make connections among previously learned topics and calculus concepts; c) to
understand the relationship between analytical and graphical representations of problems; d) to be able to communicate ideas
effectively, both in written and verbal form; e) to become literate in mathematics by strengthening reading comprehension of
mathematical text; and f) to strengthen algebraic skills through the use of calculus. In parallel, this class seeks to cover all
topics related to college level courses Calculus I and Calculus II.
AP Statistics
The AP Statistics course introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing
conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: exploring data, sampling and experimentation,
anticipating patterns, and statistical inference. Students who successfully complete the course and the exam may receive
credit, advanced placement, or both for a one-semester introductory college statistics course. A graphing calculator with a
statistical package is required for study during the course as well as for the AP Exam.