Precalculus (Period 3)

The goal of this course is to prepare students to enroll in college level mathematics, including calculus. Semester 1 will focus on using functions to model real world scenarios. Students will use polynomial and rational functions to study physics topics such as distance, velocity, and accelerations; students will use exponential and logarithmic functions to model scenarios involving exponential growth and decay. Semester 2 will focus on using trigonometric functions to model periodic real world scenarios, such as tides, planetary orbits, sunrise data, and other naturally occurring phenomena. Students will also study an introduction to calculus topics such as limits, derivatives, and integrals. Students will learn definitions by using them to achieve mastery over new methods through rigorous practice. Students will use graphing calculators to explore functions and their behavior. Throughout the course, students will use advanced algebraic methods to model real world scenarios about rate of change.