[mathematics]
The study of mathematics at Boston Trinity Academy serves many purposes beyond grasping a firm understanding of the numeric and geometric relationships that govern the universe. From a utilitarian perspective, the curriculum teaches the fundamental concepts and problem-solving skills necessary to understand science, business, and other disciplines that rely on mathematics. Beyond acquiring those skills and knowledge, however, students increase their ability to think logically and in abstract terms. Our faculty instructs students to become complex problem-solvers able to unravel, reason, and explain.
The courses offered at BTA range from Transitions Math, which stresses the fundamentals of arithmetic, to Advanced Placement Calculus BC. Math placements are based on the student’s successful completion of prerequisite math courses and demonstrated proficiency, not grade level. The goal of each math course is to increase numeric literacy and inspire students to think carefully about numeric and geometric relationships and patterns in an increasingly scientific world.
[courses]
Transitions Mathematics (Grade 6 or 7)
Students in Transitions Mathematics master the basic concepts of simple functions: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Students will master multiplication and division of 2-digit numbers without a calculator, place value, decimals, and positive and negative numbers. Students also master work with fractions and become proficient with common fraction/decimal equivalency. Students learn how to interpret and create their own graphs and to define various geometric shapes and angles.
back to the top
Pre-Algebra (Grades 6-8)
Pre-algebra prepares students for the study of first-year algebra. A significant portion of the curriculum is spent on reviewing and mastering basic arithmetic skills. Students also broaden and enrich their math background by exploring more abstract topics and concepts, such as proportional reasoning and the volume of three-dimensional shapes, in order to promote the higher-order thinking required in more advanced math courses. An increasing use of variables and methods of isolating the variable are key themes to the course.
back to the top
Algebra (Grades 7-10)
The course is designed to give students a clear and thorough understanding of the foundational concepts within the field of algebra so they are prepared for their continuing study of mathematics. Students learn to relate their elementary and Pre-Algebra mathematical understanding with the concrete and abstract ideas presented in an Algebra I curriculum. Students develop a thorough knowledge of the traditional methods for solving algebraic problems and also the ability to use these models to solve a wide range of problems.
back to the top
Geometry (Grades 8-11)
Students are instructed in foundational geometrical concepts and given opportunities to apply these learned concepts. Students hone their algebraic understanding by using algebra to solve a wide range of geometric problems. Students develop their abilities to think and plan logically as they write varying forms of geometric proofs. This course is a bridge to many higher level courses in mathematics and provides students the knowledge and experiences to navigate successfully through the upper echelons of mathematics.
back to the top
Advanced Algebra (Grade 9-12)
Advanced Algebra expands on the topics of Algebra 1 and provides further development of the concept of a function. Topics include: relations, functions, equations and inequalities; conic sections; polynomials; algebraic fractions (rational functions); logarithmic and exponential functions; sequences and series; counting principles and probability; and introductory trigonometry.
back to the top
Pre-calculus (Grade 10-12)
Pre-calculus provides a study of polynomial equations, complex numbers, functions, logarithms, circles, trigonometry, transformational geometry, probability and statistics, and sequences and series. Pre-calculus prepares students for further study of calculus. Advanced Algebra or placement out of Advanced Algebra is a prerequisite for Pre-calculus.
back to the top
AP Calculus AB (Grade 11-12)
This is a first-semester college-level calculus course that is designed to span one year. Students have the opportunity to earn college credits if they earn a high enough score on the Advanced Placement exam at the end of this course. The instruction covers concepts of limit, derivative, definite integrals, and indefinite integrals. Students are expected to perform high-level thinking and college-level academic performance. Lessons are taught in lectures, discovery activities, group discussions, and experiments.
back to the top
AP Calculus BC (Grade 12)
This is a second-semester college-level calculus course that is designed to span one year. Students have the opportunity to earn college credits if they earn a high enough score on the Advanced Placement exam at the end of this course. The instruction covers concepts of convergence and divergence of functions, analysis of infinite series, various integration techniques, analysis of complex, hyperbolic, polar, and parametric functions, and vector calculus. Students are expected to perform high-level thinking and college-level academic performance. Lessons are taught in lectures, discovery activities, group discussions, and experiments.
back to the top