Honors Algebra 3-4 Class Description

Honors Algebra 3-4 is an interesting and challenging class! In honors algebra 3-4, we extend the math foundations laid in Algebra and Geometry, introducing more advanced concepts needed for further math study. Many of these concepts have direct applications in science, engineering, economics and many other career fields. This course includes many new math concepts, so we progress at a quick pace, although not so fast that students cannot learn the material thoroughly. The real key to success in this class is to not fall behind.

The content in Honors Algebra 3-4 is similar to classes that go by various other names: algebra 2 with trigonometry, college math, precalculus, math analysis, etc. Here is a list of the wide variety of topics we cover in honors algebra 3-4:

Review of Algebra 1 (lines, slope, solving equations, factoring, inequalities)
Functions and their graphs / Inverse functions
Polynomial and Rational Functions / Zeros (including complex zeros) / Asymptotes
Conic sections (ellipse, parabola, hyperbola, circle)
Exponents and Logarithms / Exponential growth & decay / Compount Interest
Trigonometry (including right triangle, non-right triangle, trig functions, identities & analytical trig)
Sequences and Series
Probability (including conditional probability) / Binomial Theorem
Systems of equations (including 3D and higher) / systems of inequalities
Matrices / Determinants / Solving equation systems with matrices

Whew! That is a lot of math for one year! The good news, is that it is all very interesting and useful mathematics.

Because we cover so much, and the topics are fairly advanced, I have very high expectations for students in this class. Don't be discouraged, though - if you were approved to take this class, then you can definitely handle the information and workload. It is important, however, to keep a few ideas in mind for success:

A good work ethic: You need to be willing to spend some time on homework for this class, maybe a little more than you've spent on homework in the past, and to fully engage during class time. Complete each and every assignment to the best of your ability. Remember, your achievement is directly related to your own effort!
Being prepared: bring all materials needed, including your textbook, homework, class notes, a pencil and calculator to class every day.
Do not get behind: If you are having trouble, ask someone for help, either your teacher, a classmate, or someone at home. Take advantage of the free math tutoring provided in the classroom or the math office before/after school every school day. Make sure and do all the homework when it is first assigned, and ask questions when you don't understand in class or during tutoring.

Honors Algebra 3-4 is an interesting and useful class! I look forward to introducing you to these fascinating mathematical topics!

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