Math

The goals of the Valley Christian High School Mathematics Department are to:

  • Guide each student to understand how God reveals His character in the laws of mathematics.
  • Ground each student in the mathematical skills necessary for success in their adult life.
  • Develop in each student the critical thinking skills required to solve problems.
  • Equip each student with tools and strategies needed to be lifelong learners and Christian leaders in the world.

Math Department Courses

Pre-Algebra
Prerequisite:  None

Although Pre-Algebra is taught through the VINE program, it is a general education class. The purpose of Pre-Algebra is to focus on the basics of arithmetic functions and to introduce algebraic concepts. There is no pre-requisite for this class. It is offered for students who have basic mathematics skills, but who are not prepared to enter either Algebra 1 or VINE Algebra 1.  This class satisfies the prerequisite for Algebra 1.

Full year – 1 credit

Algebra I
Prerequisite:  Pre-Algebra or satisfactory completion of an equivalent course.

The purpose of Algebra 1 is to lay the foundation for all other math courses.  The primary focus is on writing, solving, and graphing linear equations, linear inequalities, and quadratic equations.  Coordinate geometry will be introduced.  Quadratic equations will be solved by factoring, completing the square, graphically, or by application of the quadratic formula. The course also includes study of monomial and polynomial expressions, inequalities, exponents, functions, rational expressions, ratio, and proportion. Algebraic skills are applied in a wide variety of problem-solving situations, while continuing to strengthen students’ confidence in their basic math skills.  This class satisfies the prerequisite for Geometry.

Full year – 1 math credit

Geometry
Prerequisite:  Algebra 1 or satisfactory score on the VCHS Geometry Entrance placement test.

This course develops an understanding of the properties and relationships of geometric shapes. It introduces axiomatic systems and stresses deductive reasoning.  The primary focus will be on Euclidean geometry with some review of coordinate geometry from Algebra 1. This class satisfies the prerequisite for Algebra 2.

Full year – 1 credit

Algebra II
Prerequisite:  Algebra 1 and Geometry or satisfactory score on the VCHS Algebra 2 Entrance placement test; may be taken concurrently with Geometry

This course is an extension of Algebra 1 and continues to lay foundation for higher level math courses.  The primary focus is on graphing and solving functions. These functions include linear, absolute value, quadratic, polynomial, rational, radical, exponential and logarithmic, trigonometric.  This class satisfies the pre-requisite for Advanced Math Topics or Pre-Calculus.

Full year – 1 math credit

Advanced Math Topics
Prerequisite:  Algebra 2

This course is designed as a 4th year math course for students who are interested in pursuing studies or careers in humanities rather than in math or science.  Advanced Math Topics prepares students for university level math and science courses by continuing the process of grounding students in the essential algebra and geometry concepts (including trigonometry).  This course is an extension of Algebra 2. This course meets the state university requirements and is offered as an alternative to Pre-Calculus.  This class satisfies the prerequisite for Pre-Calculus.

Full year – 1 credit

Pre-Calculus
Prerequisite:  Grade of C or better in Algebra 2.

Pre-Calculus prepares students for calculus and other university level math and science courses by finishing the process of grounding students in the essential algebra and geometry concepts (including trigonometry), while emphasizing problem solving.  Methods which use a graphical approach will be learned, using the TI-89 calculator as the graphing utility. This class satisfies the prerequisite for AP Calculus AB.

Full year – 1 credit

AP Calculus AB
Prerequisite:  Grade of “A” (minimum of 90%) in Pre-Calculus or teacher approval.

Advanced Placement Calculus AB is the equivalent of a 1st semester university calculus course.  Covering basic differential and integral calculus and applications, this course prepares students for the Advanced Placement Calculus AB Exam given in May. This class satisfies the prerequisite for AP Calculus BC.

Full year – 1 credit

AP Calculus BC
Prerequisite:  Calculus AB

Advanced Placement Calculus BC is the equivalent of a 2nd semester university calculus course. Covering advanced differential and integral calculus and applications, this course prepares students for the Advanced Placement Calculus BC Exam given in May.

Full year – 1 math credit