The course follows the general goals and objectives of the regular Algebra 1 course. In addition, advanced topics of algebra are introduced: absolute value equations and inequalities, linear programming, polynomial functions and their graphs, analytic techniques to explore various curves, and an introduction to topics of geometry and trigonometry. Finally, students will be given challenging problems appropriate for an accelerated course. A Texas Instruments TI-83 or TI-84 series graphing calculator is required.
Algebra 1
Algebra 1 is a traditional course in elementary algebra with an emphasis on solving problems. The course falls into four basic parts: 1) the four operations on real numbers and their use in the solution of simple equations and related problems; 2) polynomials, factoring, and fractions, leading to the solution of more complicated problems; 3) inequalities, functions and relations, and systems of open sentences; and 4) irrational numbers and quadratic functions and equations. A Texas Instruments TI-83 or TI-84 series graphing calculator is required.
Mathematics Teaching Assistant
Math Teaching Assistants provide support for the math department (1 hour/week) either before school, after school, or during resource period in one or more of the following ways:
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- Assist students taking courses in which the Teaching Assistant has demonstrated mastery.
- Assist with grading assignments that require no teacher interpretation.
Students interested in being a Teaching Assistant are required to fill out a short application available from their teacher or the math department chair. Teaching Assistants are typically supervised by an individual teacher, whose signature is required at the time of application. Students will be selected based on department needs and student qualifications. In some cases, students taking AP math courses will have priority in being a Teaching Assistant due to their qualifications in offering peer assistance.
AP Calculus BC
AP Calculus BC is an extension of AP Calculus AB rather than an enhancement. This course includes all topics covered in the AP Calculus AB course, with similar emphases and similar depth of understanding required. The course also presents intensive study of parametric, polar, and vector functions; sequences and series; and elementary differential equations. A Texas Instruments TI-83 or TI-84 series graphing calculator is required.
*Class receives honors weighting in SI weighted GPA and UC/CSU GPA calculations
Math Analysis
This course is designed to give each student thorough preparation in basic Trigonometry and Statistics. THIS COURSE IS NOT MEANT TO BE A PREPARATION FOR CALCULUS. Topics include the Trigonometric and Circular functions and their applications, Identities, Oblique Triangle Trig, and Vectors (in two dimensions) in rectangular and polar form. The course also includes an introduction to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. A Texas Instruments TI-83 or TI-84 series graphing calculator is required.
AP Statistics
This course is designed to give students a foundation for further studies in math while emphasizing preparation for majors in psychology, sociology, and other non-calculus fields. The course is intended for students wishing to complete the equivalent of a one-semester non-calculus based college course in statistics and will introduce them to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. A Texas Instruments TI-83 or TI-84 series graphing calculator is required.
*Class receives honors weighting in SI weighted GPA and UC/CSU GPA calculations
Introduction to Finance
Students taking this elective will develop the skills needed to make sound financial decisions. Topics will include planning your career, payroll and taxes, banking, credit, budgeting, purchasing, basic economics, an introduction to stats and business ethics. All of these topics will be taught through a lens of fiscal and ethical responsibility. This course also extends beyond personal finance to some topics more relevant to college level business and finance courses. Therefore, it can provide a stronger foundation for students considering that path of study in college.
Religious Studies 101: Finding God in All Things
This class is an exploration into the complexity and depth of the human experience through a Catholic lens. St. Ignatius will be a key dialogue partner, using his life as a springboard for students to uncover their own spiritual path and desires. Animated by the Catholic belief in the sacramentality of all creation, students will be challenged to reflect on the rituals, objects and symbols that charge their own lives with meaning. Core learning outcomes are to support student’s promotion of human dignity and developing a desire to build the Reign of God. Special focus will be on forming students to do a faith that does justice, exploring questions of inclusion, conscience, culture and identity. Toward this end, all students participate in the Frosh Retreat in the context of this course. The retreat includes a service project and reflection activities organized by the campus ministry department. Finally, students will conclude the year examining the relational and sexual dimension of human experience, probing ancient wisdom for guidance in discerning how to live towards greater healing and liberation.
Chemistry Honors (Physical Science)
The honors course differs from the non-honors course in that each topic is covered in more detail, at a faster pace, and with greater mathematical rigor.
Physics (Physical Science)
Physics is the scientific study of the most fundamental laws of nature. This course aims to further develop students’ appreciation for and competence in the scientific method. This course also aims to develop students’ conceptual and quantitative understanding of physical principles. Students perform experiments to develop proficiency in laboratory technique in applying physical principles to the analysis of experimental data. Units of study in this course include motion, Newton’s Laws, collisions, energy, thermodynamics, waves, sound, light, fundamental particles of nature, radioactivity, quantum mechanics, and electricity and magnetism.