Mathematics & Computer Science
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Overview
Mathematics & System Dynamics
- Geometry 1-2
- Algebra 1-2
- Advanced Algebra 3-4
- Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry
- Pre-calculus
- AP Calculus (AB level)
- AP Calculus (BC level)
- AP Statistics
- Math Modeling and Dynamic Systems 1-2
- Math Modeling and Dynamic Systems 3-4
Computer Science
- Computer Science 1-2
- Computer Science 3-4
- Computer Science 5-6
- Computer Science 7-8
- Computer Science 9-10
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Courses
The Wilson High School Math Department takes pride in providing a broad course selection that will provide a foundation in mathematics appropriate for all students regardless of their abilities and future plans. The traditional sequence for college–bound students has been enhanced by the introduction of technology, an integrated approach and an emphasis on discrete topics. Course offerings will challenge all students.
Mathematics & System Dynamics
Geometry 1–2 Year 9 – 12 Prerequisite: None 1 unit, 1 period
In this course students study two and three-dimensional shapes and their relationships in plane and space. It is a visual as well as analytical subject, integrating spatial and numerical concepts. Students classify and describe shapes in terms of congruence, similarity and transformations. The course introduces students to different forms of mathematical logic, including inductive and deductive reasoning. Students solve measurement and algebraic problems using properties, proportions, and trigonometric relationships. Algebraic concepts are reviewed with geometric applications. Students use the software available with the TI–84 calculator and/or Geogebra to deepen their understanding of key ideas.Algebra 1–2 Year 9 – 12 Prerequisite: None 1 unit, 1 period
In the first year course in algebra, the representation of functions is used as a unifying theme. Students are introduced to linear, quadratic, exponential, and polynomial functions through graphical, numerical and symbolic representations. Students learn to solve linear equations, inequalities, systems of equations, and quadratic equations. They deepen their understanding of basic algebraic concepts using hands on activities, TI–84 calculator lessons, and problem solving and develop confidence in their ability to think mathematically as they work both individually and collaboratively. Homework is required in this class.
This course is aligned with Common Core Standards and Skills (CCSS).Advanced Algebra 3–4 Year 9 –12 Prerequisite: Algebra 1–2 or concurrent enrollment in Geometry 1–2 with teacher permission. 1 unit, 1 period
This course emphasizes modeling data and problem situations with functions, specifically linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential, rational, radical and logarithmic functions. The course also introduces students to sequences and series, solving systems with and without matrices, complex numbers, problems in trigonometry and some discrete topics such as probability. Students deepen their understanding of these topics as they work both individually and in groups to solve problems, to apply the mathematics and to communicate their reasoning. Students will use the TI–84 graphing calculator in class to study these topics. Homework is required in this class. This course is aligned with Common Core Standards and Skills (CCSS).Pre–Calculus Year 10 – 12 Prerequisite: “C” or better in Advanced Algebra 3–4 or teacher recommendation. 1 unit, 1 period
Proficiency in algebra as the language underlying modeling is stressed in pre–calculus and the graphing calculator is used extensively. The particular functions that are explored in detail are: polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric. In addition, the discrete topics of matrices, probability, counting, and sequences and series are covered. Conic sections and the polar coordinate system are also introduced.
Functions, Statistics and Trigonometry (FST) Year 11 – 12 Prerequisites: completion of Advanced Algebra 3–4 or teacher recommendation. 1 unit, 1 period This course is for a student who found Algebra 3-4 difficult but wishes to continue their study of mathematics while not necessarily having the goal of eventually taking Calculus. The first semester covers basic statistics, such as producing and organizing reliable data, probability, and inference. Oftentimes statistics will be explored through focused areas such as sports analytics, financial statistics, etc. The second semester reviews numerous pre–calculus topics that were originally learned in Algebra 3-4, including functions, graphs, and trigonometry, plus it introduces some related information and skills that one would need for a basic college math course.AP Calculus (AB Level) Year 10 – 12 Prerequisite: Precalculus or teacher recommendation. 1 unit, 1 period
This course offers a rigorous approach to basic calculus for accelerated students. Topics include, but are not limited, to those covered in the first two terms of college calculus (introduction to derivatives, integrals and differential equation). This is an Advanced Placement (AB level) course. Students are encouraged to take the AP exam that will provide college credit at most universities. Graphing calculator required.AP Calculus (BC Level) Year 11 – 12 Prerequisites: AP Calculus AB or teacher recommendation. 1 unit, 1 period
This course offers a rigorous approach to basic calculus for accelerated students. Topics include, but are not limited to, those covered in the third term of college calculus (infinite series, polar and parametric equations, vectors and advanced integration techniques). This is an Advanced Placement (BC level) course. Students are encouraged to take the Advanced Placement exam that will provide college credit at most universities. Graphing calculator required.
AP Statistics Year 11 – 12 Prerequisites: Pre–calculus or a Senior who has completed Algebra 3-4 with an A or B. 1 unit, 1 period
This is the equivalent of a non–calculus based introductory college course in the social sciences, business, engineering, or health sciences. There are four conceptual themes: exploring data, planning a study, modeling, and statistical inference. Students are encouraged to take the Advanced Placement exam that may provide college credit at most universities. Graphing calculators are required and computer statistics packages will also be used in the classroom. TI–84 or TI–89 calculator is recommended.Math Modeling and Dynamic Systems 1-2 Year 9-12 Prerequisite: Advanced Algebra (A or B) or permission of instructor. 1unit, 1 period
Students will use mathematics and the Stella modeling software to explore real world problems. Students will develop and enhance modeling skills in the first semester. In the second semester students will choose a problem to research, interact with experts on the problem, and create an original model to analyze their problem. Problems can come from physical science, social science, health science, environmental science, business and/or other disciplines.Math Modeling and Dynamic Systems 3-4 Year 10-12 Prerequisite: Math Modeling and Dynamic Systems 1-2. 1 unit, 1 period
This course is a continuation of Math Modeling 1-2; students will further explore modeling techniques and different types of modeling software. Students will have an opportunity to explore topics in Agent-Based Simulation, Cellular Automata, Game Theory, Genetic Algorithms and Evolutionary Biology. This field of study is often used to simulate
economics, swarms, migration behavior and many social situations. Students will have the opportunity to pursue areas of their own interest through independent projects in the second semester of the class.Support Classes
The following support classes can be taken in conjunction with the corresponding math class with teacher recommendation:
Algebra Support
Geometry Support
Advanced Algebra Support
Double-blocked Advanced Algebra
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Computer Science Courses
Computer Science 1-2 Year 9 – 12 Prerequisite: None. 1 unit, 1 period
Have you ever dreamed about making the next great app, website or game? This course is the first step in that journey! Our goal to give students with no experience an opportunity to explore programming. Students will develop a personal website using HTML/CSS (and learn how to optimize it for mobile screens), learn tools to create and code their own game and learn Python (one of the most widely used programming languages in science, finance and academic research). In addition to coding, students will build problem solving skills that form the foundation of computer science and are applicable to all their classes. This is part of the CS CTE track.Computer Science 3-4 Year 9 - 12 Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Advanced Algebra or higher-level math course or teacher recommendation or Completion of Comp Sci. 1-2. 1 unit, 1 period Dual Credit via PCC
Come join our award-winning CS department! CS 3-4 is a chance to create with technology and learn to solve problems through programming. This college-level course lets students take a deep dive into coding in C++ (one of the most widely used programming languages in the world) by developing games, apps and solving challenging coding puzzles. In addition to coding skills, students will develop robust problem-solving strategies and learn how to break complicated tasks into clear, concise instructions – something that is valuable to any student looking towards college, career and beyond. The course is organized to have students tackle a series of small projects (Quarters 1-3) and then propose and complete their own project to finish the year (perfect for building a portfolio for applying to college, summer programs and internships). This course earns credit at PCC as CS161 and is a core class in the Computer Science CTE track.Computer Science 5-6 Year 10 - 12 Prerequisite: Comp. Sci. 3-4 or teacher recommendation. 1 unit, 1 period (elective credit)
Extend your learning from CS 3-4 by developing algorithms, applications and games in Unity/C#. Unity is an increasingly important tool for developers of simulations, apps, games, virtual reality and augmented reality experiences. Students will spend the first semester building CS skills and familiarity with the Unity platform through a series of small projects (including interactivity, lighting, simulations and procedural generation). In the second semester students will have the opportunity to explore larger projects of their own choosing in a team setting. Many students focus on a project for the Oregon Game Project or Congressional App Challenges. At the end of the year students will have developed portfolio-worthy final projects that showcase their coding and creative skills! This is a core class in the Computer Science CTE track.Computer Science 7-8 Year 11/12 Prerequisite: Comp. Sci. 5-6 or teacher recommendation. 1 unit, 1 period
Live the dream and get creative with coding! Propose and develop your own app or game and spend your days developing it with a team of like-minded students. Students will propose either semester or full year length projects using technology of their choice. Students will learn software engineering skills such as version control, agile development, and project management in a fast and flexible setting. Students are encouraged to develop with the intention of taking their product to a showcase, challenge or competition. Past student projects from this class have resulted in state, national and international awards!Computer Science 9-10 Year 12 Prerequisite: Comp. Sci. 5-6 or teacher recommendation. 1 unit, 1 period
This is a continuation of the CS 7-8 class designed for seniors. In addition to the goals for CS 7-8, students are encouraged to look outside the classroom for inspiration for their projects. In the past, students have collaborated with Wilson teachers, PSU, local businesses, non-profits and even the Portland Police Department on ambitious projects with spectacular results!