Academics

Honors Algebra I – #M13A/B                                                      1 Credit Level 3                 NCAA

Algebra 1 is a critical element in secondary mathematics education. Topics introduced in Algebra 1 provide the foundation students require for future success in high school mathematics and help them strengthen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The primary goal of Algebra 1 is to help students transfer their concrete mathematical knowledge to more abstract algebraic generalizations. Algebra 1 topics include recognizing and developing patterns using tables, graphs, and equations. In addition, students will explore operations on algebraic expressions, and apply mathematical properties to algebraic equations. Students will solve problems using equations, graphs, and tables to investigate linear relationships. Technology will be used to introduce and expand upon the areas of study listed above. The use of computers and graphing calculators will be incorporated into each module.

Requirements for placement: Previous record; signature of school counselor.

Algebra I – #M12A/B                                                                      1 Credit Level 2                 NCAA

Algebra 1 is a critical element in secondary mathematics education. Topics introduced in Algebra 1 provide the foundation students require for future success in high school mathematics and help them strengthen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The primary goal of Algebra 1 is to help students transfer their concrete mathematical knowledge to more abstract algebraic generalizations. Algebra 1 topics include recognizing and developing patterns using tables, graphs, and equations. In addition, students will explore operations on algebraic expressions, and apply mathematical properties to algebraic equations. Students will solve problems using equations, graphs, and tables to investigate linear relationships. Technology will be used to introduce and expand upon the areas of study listed above. The use of computers and graphing calculators will be incorporated into each module. 

Requirements for placement: Previous record; signature of school counselor.

Algebra I – #M11A/B                                                                          1 Credit Level 1                 NCAA

This course is designed for students who need to strengthen their basic math and study skills. All Algebra I topics
will be covered. Emphasis will be on solving basic problems. A review of arithmetic will precede each topic in this Algebra course.  Requirements for placement: Previous record; signature of school counselor.

Honors Algebra II – #M33A/B                                                           1 Credit Level 3                 NCAA

This course is intended for the gifted mathematics student. The primary goal is to expand student understanding of functions and algebraic reasoning. The course explores new topics with relation to linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Pacing will be accelerated throughout the year.  Requirement for placement: Minimum grade of 90 in Algebra I Level 2 and signature of Algebra I teacher or minimum grade of 80 in Algebra I Honors and signature of Algebra I teacher.

Algebra II – #M32A/B                                                                          1 Credit Level 2                 NCAA

This course will review, reinforce, and expand upon the major topics presented in Algebra 1. The primary goal is to understand and execute linear, quadratic, polynomial, radical, and rational functions. This course will also include an exploration of more complex functions found in later courses.  Requirements for placement: Completion of Algebra 1 Level 2.

Algebra II – #M31A/B                                                                           1 Credit Level 1                

This course is designed for students who need to strengthen their algebra and study skills. This course will review, reinforce, and expand upon the major topics presented in Algebra 1 as well as an exploration of new types of functions such as quadratics and polynomials. Pacing will be comfortable and will reflect student needs.      Requirements for placement: Completion of Algebra 1 and signature of Algebra I teacher.

Honors Geometry – #M23A                                                                  0.5 Credit             Level 3                 NCAA

This course is intended as an exploration of plane geometry through the properties, measurement, and relations of lines and angles. Topics included in the course are the study of logic through deductive proof, angle relationships, polygons, right triangles, circles, and parallel line relationships.  Requirements for placement: Minimum grade of 80 in Algebra I Honors and Algebra 2 Honors, or minimum grade of 90 in Algebra I Level 2 and Algebra 2 Level 2 and signature of Algebra 2 teacher or placement exam.

Geometry – #M22A/B                                                                            1 Credit Level 2                 NCAA

This course examines the properties, measurement, and relation of lines and angles. Intuitive thought and the development of logical thought are emphasized and reinforced. Topics included are deductive proof, angle relationships, parallel lines, right triangles, congruent and similar triangles, circles,
area, and volume.  Requirements for placement: Completion of Algebra I and Algebra 2.

Geometry – #M21A/B                                                                            1.0 Credit             Level 1                                

The principal objective of this course is to introduce the student to the basic concepts of geometry and correlate formal geometric theorems with the student’s practical experience with the world around him. Students are introduced to formal logical reasoning. Emphasis is placed on working with diagrams such as parallel lines, right triangles, congruent and similar triangles, and circles, and discovering the relationships involved. Algebraic skills are reviewed and used to solve problems on a regular basis.  Requirements for placement: Completion of Algebra I and Algebra 2; signature of math teacher.

Honors Trigonometry – #M43A                                                          0.5 Credit             Level 3                 NCAA

Basic Trigonometry begins with a review of Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II topics. The course continues with the study of trigonometric functions using coordinate geometry and right triangle relationships. Included in the course are Trigonometric Identities, the Law of Sines and the Law of Cosines, applications, and the graphs of the functions. The unit Circle and Radian measure will be introduced.  Requirements for placement: Minimum grade of 80 or above in Algebra 2 Honors or minimum grade of 90 or above in Algebra 2 Level 2 and minimum grade of 90 or above in Geometry Level 2: signature of the Algebra 2 teacher.

AP Statistics – #M94A/B                                                                     1 Credit Level 4                 NCAA
This course will provide a rigorous introduction to statistics by exploring data and how it is used to picture and describe the world.  Students in this course will be prepared to take the Advanced Placement Exam. The main topics covered in the course include data collection, surveys, sampling, measures of central tendency, probability, normal distribution, and statistical inference.  Requirements for placement: Minimum grade of 85 or above in Honors Algebra I, Honors Algebra II, and Geometry Honors/Trig Honors and signature of Geometry Honors/Trig Honors teacher; minimum grade of 90 or above in Algebra 1, Level 2, Algebra 2, Level 2 and Geometry, Level 2 and signature of Geometry teacher.

Statistics – #M92A/B                                                                             1 Credit Level 2                NCAA

This course will provide an introduction to statistics by exploring data and how it is used to picture and describe the world. Students in this class will be prepared for college-level work in statistics. The main topics covered in the course include data collection, surveys, sampling, measures of central tendency, and probability.  Requirements for placement: Completion of Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry.

Honors Pre-Calculus – #M63A/B                                                         1 Credit Level 3                 NCAA

This course is intended for gifted mathematics students and builds upon the algebraic foundation of previous courses. It offers students opportunities to develop their skills in problem-solving and deepen their conceptual understanding of functional relationships. It provides a comprehensive overview of the properties of a variety of functions, techniques for graphing functions, and an introduction to trigonometry to prepare students for Calculus.   Requirements for placement: Completion of Geometry Honors and Trigonometry Honors with a minimum grade of 75 or above in each course; signature of Geometry Honors/Trigonometry Honors teacher.   

Pre-Calculus – #M62A/B                                                                       1 Credit Level 2                 NCAA

This course offers students opportunities to develop their skills in problem-solving and deepen their conceptual understanding of functional relationships. It provides a comprehensive review of algebra topics and introduces properties of a variety of functions, techniques for graphing functions, and an introduction to trigonometry to prepare students for Calculus.  Requirements for placement: Completion of Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry.

AP Calculus – #M84A/B                                                                        1 Credit Level 4                 NCAA

This is a college-level course which provides students with the analytical skills necessary for advanced work in the sciences and mathematics. Students in this course will be prepared to take the Advanced Placement Exam. This course includes topics in Calculus and analytic geometry such as limits, differentiation, and integration. Applications of topics in physics, engineering, and economics are also studied.  Requirements for placement: Minimum grade of 90 or above in Geometry Honors/Trig Honors and signature of Geometry Honors/Trig Honors teacher.

Honors Calculus – #M73A/B                                                                 1 Credit Level 3                 NCAA

This is a high school level course in Calculus. It meets the needs of students planning to study advanced mathematics in college. This course includes topics in Calculus and analytic geometry such as limits, differentiation, and integration. Applications of topics in physics, engineering, and economics are also studied.  Requirements for placement: Minimum grade of 85 or above in Geometry Honors/Trig Honors and signature of Geometry Honors/Trig Honors teacher.

IB Mathematics

IB Maths: Analysis and Approaches (SL/HL) I

IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches recognizes the need for analytical expertise in a world where innovation is increasingly dependent on a deep understanding of mathematics. The focus is on developing important mathematical concepts in a comprehensible, coherent and rigorous way, achieved by a carefully balanced approach.  Students are encouraged to apply their mathematical knowledge to solve abstract problems as well as those set in a variety of meaningful contexts. This course serves to accommodate the range of needs, interests and abilities of students, and to fulfill the requirements of various university and career aspirations.  This course will enable students to develop mathematical knowledge, concepts and principles, and logical, critical and creative thinking. Students employ and refine their powers of abstraction and generalization. IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches concentrates on foundational topics including functions, sequences and series, coordinate geometry, and introduction to statistics. The IB internal assessment in Maths is an individual Exploration. This is a piece of written work that involves investigating an area of mathematics allowing students to develop independence in mathematical learning. Requirements for placement: Two-year course. Must be enrolled as an IB student. 

IB Maths: Analysis and Approaches (SL/HL) II

IB Maths: Analysis and Approaches II is a continuation of IB Maths: Analysis I with a strong emphasis on the ability to construct, communicate and justify correct mathematical arguments. Students should expect to develop insight into mathematical form and structure and should be intellectually equipped to appreciate the links between different topic areas. Students are encouraged to continue to develop their mathematical knowledge and thinking, and their mathematical growth in other learning environments. IB Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches II concentrates on trigonometry, probability, and calculus topics. Students will prepare for IB external assessments for May of
senior year. Requirements for placement: Two-year course. Must be enrolled as an IB student.

The Notre Dame Math Team is made up of a dedicated group of students who not only excel in mathematics but also share a passion for problem-solving and mathematical exploration. The Math Team provides a supportive and challenging environment for students to develop their skills and complete again other schools in the greater New Haven area. Beyond competitions with area high schools, the Math Team fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and the pursuit of excellence in mathematics, helping students build valuable skills for their future academic and career paths. 

The Stock Market Club is a self running virtual stock market game for students interested in the world of finance and Wall Street. Stock Market Club offers students a hands-on introduction to the world of finance through a self-run virtual stock market simulation. Student's have an opportunity to learn the dynamics of stock trading, portfolio management, and market analysis in a competitive environment. Students who are curious abut finance, business, or economics are encouraged to join to deepen their knowledge and skills. 

The Finance Club provides students with a unique opportunity to explore the fundamentals of finance, investing, and personal money management.