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Curriculum

Mathematics

The primary objective of the Mathematics Department is to help each student develop his mathematical abilities to their utmost. This is accomplished by making sure that each student is placed in the math course best suited to his background and potential and by individualizing the instruction for each student as much as possible. We pride ourselves on the fact that we teach the student first and the subject second and that we meet our above-stated objectives.
  • Algebra I - 211

    211- Algebra I (College Prep A) Grade 9
    Algebra I gives students the mathematical foundation needed for success in high school mathematics and the physical and social sciences. Beginning with the concept of variables, students learn to calculate with signed numbers, use correct order of operations, interpret, and write mathematical expressions, and solve linear 
    equations and inequalities. Students apply algebra to the modeling of real-world problems by graphing, writing equations from given information, and the solving of systems of equations. The course also covers exponents, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, radicals, and solving and graphing of quadratic equations.
    Prerequisite: Placement by the Office of Academic Affairs
  • Geometry - 224

    224 - Geometry (College Prep B) Grade 9, 10
    In this course students are introduced to Euclidean Geometry, its theoretical and practical aspects. Topics include parallel and perpendicular lines, congruency and similarity of polygons, the properties of circles, and the volume of surface area of solids. Emphasis is placed on the practical application of geometric concepts and preparation for the SAT exams.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & successful completion of Algebra I
  • Honors Geometry - 226

    226 - Honors Geometry Grades 9, 10
    In this course students are introduced to Euclidean Geometry, its theoretical and practical aspects. Topics covered include angles, parallel and perpendicular lines, congruent triangles, triangle inequalities, quadrilaterals, similar polygons, circles, areas of polygons and circles, areas and volumes of solids and constructions.
    Prerequisite: Top 15% on Math Placement Test or teacher recommendation & grade of 96 or higher in 
    course 211
  • Algebra II - 232

    232 - Algebra II (College Prep A) Grades 9, 10, 11
    This course extends and deepens the foundational concepts and skills from Algebra I. The course material is organized according to the concept of families of equations, relations, and functions: linear, quadratic, polynomial, radical, exponential, and logarithmic, rational, and the conics. The course examines the roles of both real and complex numbers. Connections between algebraic, tabular, and graphic representations of mathematical ideas are emphasized throughout the course.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & successful completion of Geometry & Algebra I
  • Honors Algebra II - 236

    236 - Honors Algebra II Grades 9, 10, 11
    This enriched course is designed to give advanced students an in-depth knowledge of the concepts of Algebra II. The topics of functions, systems of equations, polynomials, radicals, and exponentials are enriched with a discussion of matrices, probability, and conic sections. Emphasis is also placed on factoring, logarithms, and exponentials. A substantial introduction to trigonometric equations, identities and graphing completes the course in the second semester.
    Prerequisite: Exceptional performance on Math Placement Test, completion of Algebra I and Geometry, or a grade of 85 or higher in H Geometry (226) or a grade of 95 or higher in Geometry (222) and department approval.
  • Precalculus - 241

    241 - Pre-Calculus (College Prep A) Grade 10, 11, 12
    This course covers all the pertinent aspects of trigonometry including proving identities, solving trigonometric equations, and applied problems. Both graphical and analytical properties of functions are explored. Algebraic functions, polynomials, rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, sequences, and series are investigated in detail. Preliminary calculus topics of limits and derivatives are introduced at the course's end.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & successful completion of Algebra II and Geometry.
  • Finite Math Trigonometry - 244

    This course introduces students to fundamental topics in probability and statistics. Statistical analysis of data will be explored with topics including sampling methods, data organization, standard deviation, the bell curve, and linear regression.
  • Honors Precalculus - 245

    245 - Honors Pre-Calculus Grades 10, 11, 12
    This course investigates the behavior and the properties of mathematical relationships (primarily functions) in two variables. Polynomial, exponential, trigonometric, inverse, and rational functions are included. Conic sections and polar relationships are also included. The course places emphasis on the graphing of relationships. Techniques to analyze relationships are presented, including domain, range, symmetry, shifts, and reflections. Students are challenged to identify the connections between the different relationships. An introduction to Calculus is presented through sequences and series, limits, and derivatives. Mathematical rigor is stressed. The graphing calculator is integrated into the course.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & 85 or higher in Honors Algebra II (236).
  • Statistics - 250

    250 - Statistics (College Prep A) Grade 11, 12
    This course introduces students to the concepts and procedures for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students will learn how to plan a statistical study; will explore data for patterns and departure from patterns; will create models of real-world situations; will use statistical inference to draw conclusions from data; and will use probability to describe how confident one can be about the conclusions. The course provides preparation for college statistics courses typically required in business, social and natural science, and health science.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & Department approval.
  • AP Statistics - 251

    251 - AP Statistics Grade 11, 12
    The course of study follows the syllabus of the Advanced Placement Program of the College Entrance Examinations Board. This non-calculus-based statistics course is typically required by colleges for majors in social sciences, health sciences and business. It is an effective preparation for the calculus- based statistic courses that are usually taken by science, mathematics, and engineering majors. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: explorations of data using numeric statistics and graphs; design of statistical observational studies and experiments; probability; and drawing conclusions based on statistical inference. The course will include the use of technology, writing, and critical reading. Students are required to take the AP Exam.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & completion of or enrollment in Pre-Calculus or Calculus concurrently.
  • Honors Calculus - 261

    261 - Honors Calculus Grade 10, 11, 12
    Topics covered are commensurate with those offered in a semester of college calculus with a concentration on limits and derivatives. Many topics in a traditional Calculus II course will also be introduced as time allows, including integration, volumes, and areas. Analysis of functions and applications are emphasized with a thorough review of the skills introduced in Pre-calculus. Some theory is included for those students who wish to
    continue their mathematical studies more thoroughly in college.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & successful completion of Honors Pre-Calculus (245) or Pre-Calculus (241).
  • AP Calculus AB - 263

    263 - Advanced Placement Calculus: AB Grade 11, 12
    This course is designed to prepare the student for the AP Calculus Test AB. As a requirement of the course, students must take the AP Exam. Topics for the AB test will include functions, graphs, and Limits with a concentration on graph analysis, domain, range, asymptotic behavior, and continuity. It will also cover derivatives and the application of such as related to graphs, related rates, implicit differentiation, tangents to 
    curves, instantaneous rates of change and maximums and minimums. This course will also provide a very comprehensive exploration of integrals related to areas, volumes, curve lengths and all techniques of integration including partial fractions, substitution, and parts to help prepare the student for further calculus courses. Students are required to take the AP Exam.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & a grade of 85 or higher in Honors Pre-Calculus (245).
  • AP Calculus BC - 265

    265 - Advanced Placement Calculus: BC Grade 11, 12
    The course of study follows the outline set forth by the Advanced Placement Program of the College Entrance Examination Board and parallels the full year course offered in many colleges. In particular, the course encompasses the theory and differentiation and integration of algebraic and transcendental functions and their applications. Students are required to take the AP Exam.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & a grade of 95 or higher in Honors Pre-Calculus (245).
  • Hon Multivariable Calc & Adv Analysis Dual Enrollment - 268

    268 - Honors Multivariate Calculus Advanced Analysis Grade 11, 12
    This course covers a number of advanced topics in Calculus including calculus in polar coordinates, vectors, dot products, cross products, vector valued functions, and motion in space, multivariable functions, and partial derivatives. Gradients, extreme values, directional derivatives, multiple integrals, line integrals, and path independences are also covered.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & successful completion of AP Calculus BC (265) or AP Calculus 2.5 (264).

    This course is designed as a Dual Enrollment course. If you sign-up for this class, you will be charged a fee of $300 and your grade will be transcribed on an NDMU transcript earning 4 college credits for successful completion. 
  • Honors Programming - 271

    271 - Honors Computer Programming I Grades 10, 11, 12
    This course is an introduction to computer programming using Java. Topics include fundamentals of Java, packages and interfaces, classes and objects, methods, algorithms, data structures, event handling, and graphics, web page design with HTML, and the development of Java applets. Programming projects are based on real-life 
    problem solving and interactive computer applications. Emphasis is placed on good programming techniques, algorithm development, syntax and style, and the concepts of object- oriented programming. This is a “hands-on” course with computer lab activities comprising at least 50% of the course.
    Prerequisite: A grade of 83 or higher in Algebra II/Geometry & Department approval.
  • AP Computer Programming - 285

    285 - Advanced Placement in Computer Science Grade 12
    This course is the second in a sequence of computer science courses designed to make students confident programmers in Java who are prepared to take the AP CS exam. The course is accredited to follow the curriculum dictated by the AP Course Description in Computer Science developed and documented by the College Board. Students will build upon Programming I skills with more in-depth analysis of classes, data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving techniques. Students will be required to develop a portfolio of creative programs as a foundation for continued development at the college level. Students will practice a variety of AP questions throughout the year. Students are required to take the AP Exam.
    Prerequisite: Successful completion of Honors Computer Programming I and/or Department Approval.
  • AP Cybersecurity -281

    281 – AP Cybersecurity   Grades  11, 12
    The course offers students the opportunity to learn about the practices, protocols and processes utilized to protect against digital attacks. Students will become more adept to identifying potential viruses, worms, threats, and malware as they examine the purpose of cyber-attacks and how they evolve. The hands-on course calls for a strong emphasis on problem-solving skills and teamwork as students work together to counter digital attacks as well as the challenges and opportunities that may occur during implementation of necessary security measures for proper cyber responses. Students are required to take the AP Exam. This course is an elective; it does not replace a core math requirement.
    Recommendation from current math teacher.
  • Cybersecurity Essentials - 280

     
     
    280 - Cybersecurity Essentials (College Prep A & B) Grade 12
    The course offers students the opportunity to learn about the practices, protocols and processes utilized to protect against digital attacks. Students will become more adept to identifying potential viruses, worms, threats, and malware as they examine the purpose of cyber-attacks and how they evolve. The hands-on course calls for a strong emphasis on problem-solving skills and teamwork as students work together to counter digital attacks as well as the challenges and opportunities that may occur during implementation of necessary security measures for proper cyber responses.
    No Recommendation required.
  • Foundations of Computer Science - 275

    275 - Foundations of Computer Science (College Prep A) Grades 10, 11, 12 
    This course is an introduction to the field of computer science using the Python programming language. Students will learn the rudiments of computational thinking and design, and learn fundamental concepts such as variables, lists, functions, and elementary class design. This course will prepare students for further coursework in Computer Science.

    No previous coding experience is necessary.  No Recommendation required 
  • Hon Algebra I - 211H

    211H - Honors Algebra I Grade 9
    Algebra I gives students the mathematical foundation needed for success in high school mathematics and the physical and social sciences. The major topics covered are solving linear and quadratic equations, polynomial arithmetic, solving systems of equation, inequalities, sketching lines and parabolas, and mathematical models within each of those units. The course also covers exponents, rational expressions, and solving equations involving radicals. The course covers more topics and, more in-depth, than Algebra I (211). Tests and assignments will have more at the higher end of Bloom’s taxonomy than Algebra I (211).
    Prerequisite: 80% or higher on HSPT/Standardized testing and/or approval of the Office of Academic Affairs
  • Honors Data Structures and Algorithms - 277H

    277H –Honors Data Structures and Algorithms  Grades 12 
    This course is a continuation of the material covered in AP Computer Science A and is focused on the theoretical underpinnings of the programs we create in the C programming language. Students will learn how to analyze the time complexity of searching and sorting algorithms as well as learn how to use greedy and dynamic approaches to computational problems. In the second semester, students will learn common data structures such as linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs, and the tradeoffs between them. Special topics might include probabilistic algorithms, amortized analysis, and parallel processes.

    Prerequisites: Successful completion of 285 AP Computer Science and teacher recommendation.   
  • Honors Differential Equations and Linear Algebra Dual Enrollment - 258

    258 - Honors Differential Equations and Linear Algebra Grade 11,12
    In this course, students are introduced to solution techniques and mathematical analysis of linear operations and differential equations. During the first semester, the study of linear algebra and matrix theory is of primary focus. Topics of emphasis include matrix operations, solution techniques for systems of linear equations, vector spaces, inner product spaces, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, and diagonal and orthogonal matrices.

    During the second semester, the study of ordinary differential equations includes both applied and proof-based elements. Second semester content includes solutions to linear and nonlinear differential equations, applications of such equations, and an introduction to linear systems of differential equations.
    Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation & successful completion of Honors Multivariate Calculus & Advanced Analysis (268).

    This course is designed as a Dual Enrollment course. If you sign-up for this class, you will be charged a fee of $300 and your grade will be transcribed on an NDMU transcript earning 4 college credits for successful completion.
  • Honors Foundations of Computer Science - 276H

    Honors Foundations of Computer Science                                                         Grades 10, 11, 12 

    This course is an introduction to coding using the computer language Python. This experience-based course provides a framework of concepts, techniques and process associated with variables, functions, lists, and proper Python formatting. Students will prepare students for future coding courses. No previous coding experience is necessary.  This course is an elective; it does not replace a core math requirement. Recommendation from current math teacher.  

  • Introduction of Computer Algorithms - 277

    277 – Introduction of Computer Algorithms (College Prep A) Grades 11, 12
    This course continues the student’s development of programming, problem solving abilities and logical skills by 
    introducing object-oriented principles (OOP) such as classes, encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism, as 
    well as basic data structures and algorithms (DSA) including singly and doubly linked lists, binary trees, and 
    depth and breadth first search. 
    Prerequisites: Successful completion of 275 Foundations of Computer Science, or 271 Honors Computer Programming, or 285 AP Computer Science.

Faculty

  • Photo of Jeffrey Blake
    Jeffrey Blake
    Mathematics - Department Chair
    (410) 825-4266
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  • Photo of Joseph Baker
    Joseph Baker
    Chief Administrative Officer and Director of Advancement
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  • Photo of Christopher Barczak
    Christopher Barczak
    Religion - Department Chair
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  • Photo of Jack Basmaci
  • Photo of Donna Bridickas
    Donna Bridickas
  • Photo of Richard Brown
    Richard Brown
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  • Photo of Verena Brown
    Verena Brown
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  • Photo of Rachael Browne
    Rachael Browne
  • Photo of Taylor Connor
    Taylor Connor
  • Photo of Edward Fioravante
    Edward Fioravante
  • Photo of Mary Lou Healy
    Mary Lou Healy
  • Photo of Robert Howard
    Robert Howard
  • Photo of Roy Lobdell
    Roy Lobdell
    Read Bio
  • Photo of Madeline Makowski
    Madeline Makowski
  • Photo of Tim Trotta
    Tim Trotta
    teacher
  • Photo of Meghan Wilmot
    Meghan Wilmot