Math

To graduate from Altamont Community High School a student must obtain twenty-eight total credits.  Three of those credits are required to come from the mathematics department. Most colleges want students to have their credits in: Algebra, geometry, algebra II and trigonometry

Algebra:
Here at Altamont Community High School we offer three different levels of Algebra.  The first level is Algebra 1.The focus of this course is around families of functions, with an emphasis on linear and quadratic functions.  Students will learn multiple ways of representing these functions including: verbally, as equations, tables, and graphs with and without the use of technology.  Students will also study how to apply functions to different real-world situations. Another option to Algebra 1 is Algebra 1A.The focus of this course is linear equations and graphs.  Students will learn order of operations, distributive property, solving equations and inequalities with multiple variables. To follow up on Algebra 1 and 1A we have Algebra 2 (A, B & C). This intermediate algebra course is a continuation of Algebra I; students will make connections between algebraic, tabular, and graphical models.  An emphasis is placed on understanding relations and functions, including linear equations, polynomials, rational, and radical functions.

Geometry:
To begin with students will study a standardized Geometry. Students will develop reasoning and problem solving skills as they study topics such as congruence and similarity, and apply properties of lines, polygons, and circles.  They will apply skills involving length, perimeter, area, circumference, surface area, and volume to solve real-world applications.  Another option of geometry that we offer includes Informal Geometry. This course focuses on the key topics that provide a strong foundation in the essentials of geometry.  The key topics include inductive/deductive reasoning, polygons, circles, and trigonometric functions.

Trigonometry, Calculus & Statistics:
Our Trigonometry class is offered as a dual credit class in partnership with Lakeland College.  This course prepares students for eventual work in calculus. Topics include the study of right trigonometric and circular functions, inverses, and graphs; trigonometric identities and equations; solutions of right and oblique triangles; complex numbers; numerical tables; polynomial, logarithmic, exponential, and rational functions and their graphs; and mathematical induction.

Our Calculus class is offered as a dual credit class in partnership with Lakeland College. Students will learn to conduct statistical experiments, evaluate results and understand a variety of statistical measurement techniques.  Topics typically include event probability, normal probability distribution, collection and description of data, frequency tables and graphs, measures of central tendency and variability, random variables, random sampling, correlation, central limit theorem, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing.

Last but not least, our Calculus is our third math class that is offered as a dual credit course at Lakeland College.  The course will cover differential and integral calculus of elementary functions of one variable.  Applications studied will include rates of change, optimization, curve sketching, and area under a curve.