Pre-Calculus with Trigonometry

Section A: Wednesdays 11:00-12:40 Eastern Time (8:00-9:40 AM Pacific Time)

Prerequisites: Algebra 2 and Geometry (see below Resource for Placement Chart)

NOTE: This course is currently approved for optional Dual Enrollment Credit (MAT 115 Pre-Calculus with Trigonometry) through Kepler's Partnership with Colorado Christian University's Dual Credit Program via CCU Academy. See details below. Parents and students should schedule a meeting with Mrs. Santoro before enrolling in CCU's Dual Credit Program.

Precalculus with Trigonometry is a classical, Christian approach to the liberal arts of mathematics and geometry. Galileo Galilei proposed, “Mathematics is the language in which God has written the universe.” Math is the language... Math is a language? A language implies communication. While a language, like any language, can be learned by textbooks and one-way imparting of information, the ability does not imply it should be taught solely in that manner. To become fluent, one must speak conversationally. Utilizing a state-of-the-art eLearning system for the foundational framework of didactic instruction and diligent development of intellectual skills and habits, this course is designed to shepherd students through and beyond the curriculum and into deeper understanding and wisdom by employing various discussion methods of participation via the canons of rhetoric.

This course consists of two semesters and offers 1.0 high-school credit in Pre-Calculus, 0.5 high-school credit in Geometry, and optional 3.0 collegiate credits in Pre-Calculus through CCU. Each semester students will be assigned lessons, quizzes, and exams, record weekly journal entries, and attend live recitations as an active member. Students should expect to expend time and effort in line with an honors/advanced/AP Pre-Calculus course. An additional final exam is required for students enrolled in CCU's Dual Credit Program.

Course Objectives

1. To look at mathematics and geometry from a biblical viewpoint.
2. To build upon Algebra 2 & Geometry ½ knowledge and to gain a grasp of the topics and concepts of Precalculus with Trigonometry.
3. To learn, review, and practice intellectual skills of learning in the fundamentals of mathematics and geometry.
4. Within the rigor of the materials and calendar, to contemplate the truth, beauty, and goodness via journaling and actively participating in discussions of mathematics and geometry.
5. To study the language of mathematics and geometry with a goal of improving fluency.
6. To gain understanding and wisdom in the arts of mathematics and geometry using Cicero’s Five Canons of Rhetoric to participate in various methods of discussions.

Curriculum

• Shormann, David, PhD, Precalculus with Trigonometry, and CLEP Professor for CLEP Precalculus, (Required eLearning Course Subscriptions) NOTE: You MUST purchase the two non-refundable, 12-month school licenses for $89 through Kepler and not through DIVE.

Optional references

• Euclid, (Euclid's Elements Book One with Questions for Discussion, ISBN-13: 978-1888009460)
• Euler, Leonard (Elements of Algebra, ISBN-13: 978-1508901181)
• Nickel, James (Mathematics: Is God Silent?, ISBN-13: 978-1879998223)

Attendance

Attendance is a vital part of this course; therefore, students must attend class sessions and actively participate in discussions. Unless stated otherwise, students are expected to have completed the assignments before coming to class. Although the recitations will be recorded, a student cannot participate while watching a recording.

General Information for the Virtual Classroom

• Stable internet connection
• Working webcam, headset, and microphone
• Ability to convert written work into clear, readable portable document format (pdf)

NOTE: The first quarter includes a high-speed and intense review and preview of ten major math concepts: number, ratio, algebra, geometry, analytical geometry, measurement, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, and computer math. Adequately blocked time is necessary to diligently develop or polish skills and habits and avoid “cram, test, dump” mentality. Depending on student's math knowledge and fluency, consider blocking at least two hours per day for margins around a focused 1.5 hours of study four (or five) days a week, plus the weekly 1.5-hour recitation, especially in the first quarter.

Colorado Christian University's - Dual Credit Program | CCU Academy.

This dual-credit course must be completed with a grade of C- or higher to be considered for college transfer credit. Pre-Calculus (MAT 115) is a 3-credit course. Payment and registration are two separate actions. Be advised that a course's dual credit status with CCU is subject to change and is not confirmed until CCU Academy course enrollment is active in the fall. Parents and students should schedule a meeting with Mrs. Santoro before enrolling in CCU's Dual Credit Program.