Mathematics
Radnor High School's mathematics curriculum accommodates students' various levels of mathematical abilities with the goal of developing thinking skills through emphasis on mathematical concepts.
Math Curriculum
Seminar (Honors)
Seminar (Honors)-level courses are intended for the highly motivated math students and designed to challenge the most mathematically capable students. The courses will involve both rigorous pacing and workload with teacher expectations intended to challenge the student. The course will require more independent and self guided learning (with an emphasis on writing explanations) than all other courses.
Honors
Honors-level courses are intended for the motivated math student who is very good with mathematics but needs more teacher guidance to assist in the mastery of the material. The course will involve accelerated pacing and a demanding workload with some written explanations expected. Students on this level will be prepared to take AP Calculus AB.
Advanced
Advanced-level courses will feature modified pacing and workload with teacher guidance to assist in the mastery of the material. Students enrolled on this level should be seeking to satisfy college requirements and/or college expectations of mathematics courses but the student may not necessarily have an interest in pursuing math related college majors.
Math Courses
View All Courses
| Algebra | Calculus | Geometry | Statistics | AP |
| Foundations of Algebra 1 A Part 1 | Calculus | Geometry | Statistics | AP Computer Science |
| Foundations of Algebra 1 A Part 2 | AP Calculus AB | Advanced Geometry | AP Statistics | |
| Algebra 2 | AP Calculus BC | Honors Geometry | ||
| Advanced Algebra 2 | Honors Pre-Calculus | Seminar Geometry | ||
| Honors Algebra 2 | Seminar Pre-Calculus | |||
| Seminar Algebra 2 | Advanced Pre-Calculus | |||
| Linear Algebra | Multivariable Calculus | |||
| Algebra 3 | Multivariable Calculus |
PRE-ALGEBRA COURSES
Foundations of Algebra 1 A Part 1
0.5 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets on cycle days
Prerequisite(s): Any student who took Intensive Math 8, or Teacher Recommendation, or has math IEP goals.
This course is meant to be a complement to Algebra 1 Advanced Part 1 following a teach/reteach model. The course will have students use guided practice to fortify their understanding of concepts and apply those concepts to applications. All topics taught in Algebra 1 Advanced Part 1 will be revisited in this course.
Foundations of Algebra 1 A Part 2
0.5 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets on cycle days
Prerequisite(s): Any student who took Algebra 1 A Part 1, or Teacher Recommendation, or has math IEP goals.
This course is meant to be a complement to Algebra 1 Advanced Part 2 following a teach/reteach model. The course will have students use guided practice to fortify their understanding of concepts and apply those concepts to applications. All topics taught in Algebra 1 Advanced Part 2 will be revisited in this course.
ALGEBRA 1 COURSES
Algebra 1 H
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 9, 10 Prerequisite(s): 90% or higher in 8th Grade Math and Teacher Recommendation
The goal of this course is to provide students with a foundation in the algebraic strand of mathematics through experiences that include understanding patterns, relations and functions, representing and analyzing mathematical situations and structures using algebraic symbols, using mathematical models to represent and understand quantitative relationships, and analyzing change in various contexts. Algebra is not just focused on calculations but also as a language, a process for logical thought, and as a field of study. This approach to Algebra 1 is organized around families of functions, with special emphasis on linear and quadratic functions. As students learn about each family of functions, they will learn to represent them in multiple ways: as verbal descriptions, equations, tables, and graphs. They will also learn to model real-world situations using functions to solve problems arising from those situations. Students will learn other foundational Algebra content including exponents, radicals, rational numbers, polynomials, operations, and solving real-world problems.
Algebra 1A
1.0 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 9, 10
Prerequisite(s): Teacher Recommendation or any student earning a ”C” or above in 8th Grade Math
The goal of this course is to develop algebraic skills and concepts and to enhance problem solving ability. Topics include: polynomial expressions and equations, quadratic functions, irrational numbers, coordinate graphing, graphing linear and quadratic functions, basic statistics, determining and analyzing the slope of lines, and factoring polynomial expressions. Algebra skills and concepts needed to solve equations, inequalities, and systems of equations/inequalities are developed. Algebraic problem-solving techniques are employed to solve relevant applications.
Algebra 1A Part I
1.0 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 9, 10
Algebra 1A Part I is a course that features moderate pacing and workload with teacher guidance to assist in the mastery of the material. Students enrolled on this level should be seeking to satisfy college requirements/expectations of mathematics courses but not necessarily have an interest in pursuing math related college majors. The goal of this course is to develop algebraic concepts, skills and abstract thinking. Problem solving will be used to enhance the understanding of the skills and concepts. Topics will include solving equations and inequalities in one or two variables, concept of function, graphs of linear, absolute value, and quadratic functions, factoring, rational expressions and equations, and matrices. This course moves at a moderate pace with a rigorous approach to algebraic concepts, skills, and applications. Students in this class will learn the first half of the algebra curriculum and finish it the following year in Algebra 1A Part II.
Algebra 1A Part II
1.0 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 9, 10
Algebra 1 Part B is a course that features moderate pacing and workload with teacher guidance to assist in the mastery of the material. Students enrolled on this level should be seeking to satisfy college requirements/expectations of mathematics courses but not necessarily have an interest in pursuing math related college majors. The goal of this course is to develop algebraic concepts, skills and abstract thinking. Problem solving will be used to enhance the understanding of the skills and concepts. Topics will include solving equations and inequalities in one or two variables, concept of function, graphs of linear, absolute value, and system of equations. This course moves at a moderate pace with a rigorous approach to algebraic concepts, skills, and applications. Students in this class will complete the algebra curriculum started in Algebra 1A Part I the previous year.
Foundations of Algebra I
0.5 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets on cycle days
Prerequisite(s): Any student earning less than a “B” in 8th Grade Math, students who took Intensive Math 8, or Teacher Recommendation
This course is meant to be a complement to Algebra I Advanced following a teach/reteach model. The course will have students use guided practice to fortify their understanding of concepts and apply those concepts to applications. All topics taught in Algebra I Advanced will be revisited in this course.
GEOMETRY COURSES
Seminar Geometry H
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 9
Prerequisite(s): 8th grade Algebra with a Grade of “A” or Teacher Recommendation
This course is a challenging, rigorous, proof-based approach to Geometry. Students in Seminar Geometry analyze geometric figures using deductive reasoning, make conjectures and formulate hypotheses, draw conclusions, make connections with other mathematical concepts, and model situations geometrically as a problem-solving strategy. Algebraic and geometric skills and interactive computer software may be integrated throughout the curriculum.
Geometry H
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 9, 10
Prerequisite(s): 8th grade Algebra 1 with a “B” and Teacher Recommendation.
Note(s): Students with a grade of “C” or lower in Algebra 1 are strongly encouraged to enroll in Algebra 1 A (0414) or take Algebra 1 in a summer school program before taking the course.
This course uses a disciplined approach to traditional Geometry, integrating the concepts and skills previously developed in Algebra 1. Students in Geometry H apply geometric concepts to solve problems, use two-column proofs to establish relationships among triangles and parts of triangles, apply similarity theorems to geometric figures, relate knowledge of parallel and perpendicular lines to solve practical problems, combine algebraic and geometric skills to solve perimeter, area and volume problems, and apply skills involving trigonometry and transformational geometry. Interactive computer software may be integrated throughout the curriculum.
Geometry A
1.0 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 9,10, 11
Prerequisite(s): Algebra 1 A or a “B” in 8 t grade Algebra 1
Note(s): Students with a grade of a “C” or lower in Algebra 1 are strongly encouraged to enroll in Algebra 1 A (0414) or take Algebra 1 in a summer school program before taking this course.
This class is a concept-based approach to traditional Geometry designed to reinforce and extend previous algebra skills while integrating new geometric concepts. Students in Geometry derive and use formulas for perimeter, circumference, area, surface area, and volume of many types of figures, use the Pythagorean Theorem, use congruence and similarity in describing relationships between figures, and analyze geometric figures. Some computer lab work may be performed during the year. Throughout the course, algebra skills will be reviewed and reinforced through the application of geometry concepts.
Foundations of Geometry
0.5 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets on cycle days
Grade(s): 9, 10, 11
Prerequisite(s): Any student earning less than a “B” in Algebra 1A, or Teacher Recommendation
This course is meant to be a complement to Geometry Advanced following a teach/reteach model. The course will have students use guided practice to fortify their understanding of concepts and apply those concepts to applications. All topics taught in Advanced eometry will be revisited in this course.
ALGEBRA 2 COURSES
Seminar Algebra 2 H
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 10
Prerequisite(s): Seminar Geometry H with a grade of “B” or Teacher Recommendation
Seminar Algebra 2 H is an enriched and extended study of the topics of Algebra 2 H (0453). In addition, it includes an in-depth study of exponential and logarithmic functions, quadratic relations (conics), sequences and series, probability, matrix algebra and the graphs of rational functions. This course uses an exploration/discovery approach to develop course content. There is a heavy emphasis on real-world applications. Written explanations are a part of assessment. Students are required, on a regular basis, to make connections within and between mathematical concepts.
Algebra 2 H
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 10, 11
Prerequisite(s): 8th grade Algebra 1 with a “B” and Geometry H with a “B”, Seminar Geometry with a “B”
This course reviews and extends the number system, formulas, equations and graphs. Subject matter includes quadratics, radicals, exponents, and complex numbers. An emphasis is placed on both the development of the concept of function and graphing functions using a transformational approach. Logarithms, exponential functions, theory of equations and sequences and series are introduced during the course. Students are challenged to apply skills to new problems and to connect skills and concepts. Students are expected to handle a demanding workload.
Algebra 2 A
1.0 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Geometry A with a “C”
Note(s): This course cannot be used as a prerequisite for Precalculus H (0443). A graphing calculator is required.
This course reviews and extends an understanding of the number system, formulas, equations and graphs. Subject matter includes quadratics, radicals, exponents, complex numbers and the mathematical concept of function. Logarithms, exponential functions and theory of equations are introduced during the course. This course involves the use of a graphing calculator to develop and practice concepts, rather than the theoretical approach used in Algebra 2 H. Students are expected to handle an appropriate workload at a moderate pace.
Algebra 2
1.0 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 11,12
Prerequisite(s): Geometry A
The Algebra 2 course focuses on the application of mathematics to solve functional problems, emphasizing real-world applications in fields like engineering, science, and technology. Algebra 2 topics include linear equations, inequalities, systems of equations, functions, quadratic equations, logarithmic functions, polynomials, distributions, probability, simulations, methods of data collection and visualization, and interpretation of data using digital tools. Students will use mathematical models and data trends to make predictions to address real-world problems.
Foundations of Algebra 2
0.5 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets on cycle days
Prerequisite(s): Any student earning less than a “B” in Geometry A or Algebra 1 A, or Teacher Recommendation
This course is meant to be a complement to Algebra 2 Advanced following a teach/reteach model. The course will have students use guided practice to fortify their understanding of concepts and apply those concepts to applications. All topics taught in Algebra 2 Advanced will be revisited in this course.
ALGEBRA 3 COURSES
Algebra 3 and Trigonometry A
1.0 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Algebra 2 A or Teacher recommendation
This Algebra 3 course is designed for the students who need to strengthen their knowledge and skill sets of Advanced Algebra 2 before taking a full year course in Trigonometry. Time will be spent reviewing, strengthening and reinforcing skills and concepts involving functions, equations, inequalities and applications. Additional topics will include exponential and logarithmic functions, sequences and series and complex and imaginary numbers. Trigonometry will be introduced through the unit circle and extended to include solving triangles.
ADVANCED MATHEMATICS & CALCULUS COURSES
AP Precalculus
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length:Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 9-11
Prerequisite(s): B or better in Seminar Algebra II
The AP Precalculus course not only provides an excellent foundation for calculus but also serves as an appropriate capstone mathematics course that will open pathways to success in STEM fields. The curriculum, while remaining true to traditional seminar precalculus topics such as logarithmic and trigonometric functions, also includes additional tools and skills such as the use of logarithmic scales, modeling discrete dynamical systems with matrices, and the study of vectors. These, together with an emphasis on rates of change and applications, provide students the mathematical knowledge and skills that will prove tremendously beneficial in biology, chemistry, environmental science, kinesiology, and other sciences. This is a PLTW + AP Pathway course. For more information, please see our PLTW+AP section of the program.
Precalculus H
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Algebra 2 H with a Grade of “B” or Seminar Algebra 2 H with a "C” or Teacher Recommendation
This course prepares students to take a college level Calculus or Advanced Placement Calculus AB course. Emphasis is on making connections and in-depth explanations of mathematical processes that demonstrate an understanding of concepts. Real world applications are used to enhance mastery. Topics covered are linear, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, piecewise, quadratic, polar and inverse functions, sequences and series, math induction, laws of sines and cosines, trigonometric identities and equations.
Precalculus A
1.0 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 12
Prerequisite(s): Algebra 2 A
The goal of this course is to examine trigonometric concepts and application and explore appropriate discrete topics. Trigonometry is taught using both a right triangle and unit circle approach. Exponential and logarithmic functions, sequences and series, and as time allows other topics in discrete math are introduced. Many of these topics have applications in engineering, management, and the social sciences. Algebra skills necessary for success in subsequent mathematics courses will be reviewed throughout the year.
Advanced Placement Calculus BC
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 12
Prerequisite(s):Recommended by Department and B or better in AP Pre-Calculus
Note(s): This college-level course prepares students to successfully take the Calculus BC Advanced Placement Exam and receive 2 or 3 semesters of college credit and/or placement as a result.
In addition to the topics listed under Advanced Placement Calculus AB, students electing this course engage in a thorough study of: L’Hopital’s Rule for evaluating some limits, use of derivatives to analyze polar, parametric, and vector functions, integration techniques and applications, numerical solutions to differential equations using Euler’s Method, and sequences and series, including the use of tests for convergence and the development of Maclaurin and Taylor polynomials and their convergence. This is a PLTW + AP Pathway course. For more information, please see our PLTW+AP section of the program.
Advanced Placement Calculus AB
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 12
Prerequisite(s): Precalculus H with a “B” or Teacher Recommendation
Note(s): This college-level course prepares students to successfully take the Calculus AB Advanced Placement Examand receive 1 or 2 semesters of college credit and/or placement as a result.
Students electing this course engage in a thorough study of limits and continuity, differentiation, integration, and differential equations as well as appropriate applications. The functions studied in previous mathematics courses will be used to develop these themes. This is a PLTW + AP Pathway course. For more information, please see our PLTW+AP section of the program.
Calculus 1 A
1.0 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 12
Prerequisite(s): Precalculus H or Trigonometry/Discrete Math A with a “B” or Teacher Recommendation
Traditionally, calculus has been the mathematics course taken by college freshmen. There is currently a growing realization that students also need to be prepared in the areas of linear algebra, probability and statistics, logic, and other discrete mathematics topics. This need arises because of the ever-increasing role of computing in all disciplines and the importance of discrete mathematics in computing. The objective of this course is to provide an introduction to traditional first semester calculus and to introduce students to the many topics in discrete mathematics – both of which have important applications in engineering, management, and the social sciences.
Linear Algebra H
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, or teacher recommendation
This college level course is designed to prepare the student for eventual courses in multivariable calculus and modern algebra. Students will study systems of equations, vectors and vector spaces, linear transformations and matrix representations, determinants, vectors and values, and a variety of applications. Linear algebra is used in abstract algebra, functional analysis and has extensive applications to both natural sciences and social sciences. This is dual enrollment course. For more information, please see our Dual Enrollment section of the program.
Multivariable Calculus H
1.0 Credit; Weighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): AP Calculus BC with a B or better.
This college level course is designed to prepare the student for eventual courses in differential equations. Students electing to take this course will review polar and parametric curves as well as infinite series. They will study vectors and the geometry of space, vector functions, vector calculus, partial derivatives, multiple integrals, and second order differential equations.
STATISTICS COURSES
Advanced Placement Statistics
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 11, 12
Prerequisite(s): Seminar Algebra 2 with a Grade of "C" or Algebra 2 H with a Grade of a "B" or Teacher Recommendation
AP Statistics introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad concepts: exploring data for patterns and departures from patterns, sampling and experimentation in planning and conducting a study, anticipating patterns while exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation, and statistical inference during estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses Students who successfully complete this course and the College Board AP Statistics examination may receive advanced credit for one semester of introductory college statistics.
Statistics A
1.0 Credit; Unweighted
Length: Year; Format: Meets Daily
Grade(s): 11,12
Prerequisite(s): Algebra 2 A
The four major themes of statistics of describing data through graphical means, sampling and experimentation, anticipating patterns, and statistical inference are explored along with the basic concepts of probability. Various computer and statistical projects are given to complement the course throughout the year.
Math Center (Room 203)
Students are invited to drop by the Math Center in Room 203 and study during their free or study periods. If a student is in study hall, a pass is need from the student's regular math teacher to allow the student to go to the Math Center during that period. The Math Center functions as a student assist/student study center, with a certified mathematics teacher available during certain periods to answer questions. Should technology be needed, several computers are available, along with a dedicated printer.
