Welcome to Precalculus

Course Description
Pre-Calculus is a preparatory course for Calculus for students who have successfully completed Algebra II. Pre-Calculus includes development of higher-level mathematical skills. Trigonometric functions, polynomial functions, functions and their graphs, complex numbers, polar coordinates, infinite series, conic sections, and vectors are stressed in this course.
 
Textbook
 
Advanced Mathematics, A Pre-Calculus Approach (by Prentice Hall)
 
Topics Covered
 
Semester 1
Functions
Graphing Functions
Trigonometric Functions
Graphs and Inverses of Trigonometric Functions
Applications of Trigonometry
Trigonometric Identities and Equations
 
Semester 2
Polynomial Functions
Inequalities
Exponents
Polar Coordinates
Conic Sections
Vectors
Sequences and Series
 
Evaluation
 
Each nine-weeks grade will be determined by a minimum of three major grades (usually tests) and a minimum of six daily grades. Daily grades may include homework grades, quizzes, worksheets, small group classwork, and notebook grades. The major grade average and the daily grade average will each count as 50% of the nine-weeks grade. The semester grade will be determined by adding the 9-weeks averages twice and the final exam once and then dividing by 5. Therefore, each nine weeks grade is 40% of the semester average and the final exam is 20% of the semester average.
 
Frequently Asked Questions
 
What is Pre-Calculus?
Pre-Calculus is a bridge from Algebra to Calculus. It includes what was previously a separate Trigonometry course as well as an extension of topics introduced in Algebra II.
 
What type of calculator will the student need?
Graphing calculators are highly recommended to be successful in this course. Although there are many models and a few manufacturers to choose from, the most commonly used at this campus are the TI-83 plus and TI-84 models. TI83 plux models can be checked out from the bookroom.
 
Is Pre-Calculus required for college?
More and more of the larger universities are looking for at least one semester credit in Pre-Calculus as a minimum level of mathematical background. There are other universities that only require successful completion of Algebra II, however. Check with the individual institutions the student is interested in for their requirements.
 
How often should students expect to have homework?
Homework is assigned daily. The amount given and the length of time necessary to complete each assignment varies with each particular lesson.
 
When is tutoring available?
Mathematics tutoring is available for all math subjects on Mondays through Friday before school from 6:30-7:00 in Room 2311. If students feel a need for more extensive tutoring than this, they may check with their teacher to see if there is time when they can get extra help. Some students additionally hire private tutors. A list of private tutors is generally available in the Counselors Office.