Mathematics
East Brunswick High School
Introduction
The Mathematics Department offers sequences in academic, accelerated and honors/advanced placement mathematics that give students opportunities ranging from meeting the minimum three years of mathematics study and state graduation requirements to preparing for or participating in college-level mathematical study.
In grades seven through twelve, there is a broad range of courses. As required for graduation by the State of New Jersey, all students complete Algebra and Geometry and a third year of mathematics. Most students at East Brunswick High School choose to take Algebra II in their third year of mathematics. Over 96% of all seniors take a fourth year of mathematics as an elective. Sixty-five percent of seniors complete college level mathematics. For extremely well qualified students, there are opportunities to take more than one math course in the same year, allowing interested students to complete five or six courses of mathematics, up through Honors Calculus III. Also available are AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, and AP Statistics, as well as Honors Calculus I & II and Statistics H which are offered in conjunction with Middlesex County College (students must have met one of the State math graduation requirements in order to take DCC courses).
Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in a mathematics course in each year of their high school experience as a way of adequately preparing for the college placement as well as their future endeavors. Because of the sequential nature of mathematics offerings, many courses have prerequisites. In addition, some science courses have mathematics prerequisites. Students need to be aware of the prerequisites for each course and of the grade requirements for continuing in a course sequence. For those students (rising seniors) who do not score at the proficient level on state standardized tests or meet any of the other graduation requirements, a supplementary lab course (semester course) has to be taken in addition to their regular senior year math course at high school.
In general, a grade of at least C- (70%) is required to stay on a given track, while a grade of at least A- (90%) is required to move into a new track sequence as specified in the placement matrix. Students are expected to purchase a TI-84 graphing calculator at the beginning of Algebra I as preparation for state standardized tests as well as for future math courses at both Churchill Junior High School and East Brunswick High School.
Math Level Descriptions
Academic
The topics that are taught in academic levels are aligned to the state standards and are covered in both Accelerated and Honors courses.
- Teachers will spend time working to develop the following
- Math skills and fluency
- Critical thinking
- Communicating Mathematically
- Modeling
- Analyzing data
- More time re-teaching prerequisite skills and concepts
- More time to review prior topics when they are tied into current topics
Accelerated
Accelerated courses include more enrichment opportunities and move at a faster pace than academic courses and cover additional topics
- More challenging math concepts are introduced
- Less assistance with:
- Math Skills and fluency
- Communicating Mathematically
- Critical thinking
- Modeling
- Analyzing data
- Mathematics vocabulary used and required
- Less time reviewing prerequisite concepts
- Less time re-teaching when making connections between concepts
Honors
Honors courses include additional in-depth topics beyond the required standards and move at a more rigorous pace than accelerated in order to help prepare students for future honors and Advanced Placement courses.
- The following honors level and AP level math courses have a summer assignment that students are expected to complete prior to the start of the school year:
- Algebra I Honors
- Algebra II Honors
- Geometry W/Trigonometry Honors
- Pre-calculus Honors
- AP Calculus AB
- AP Calculus BC
- AP Statistics
- More open-ended problem solving involving
- Multiple parts
- More complicated data
- More difficult critical thinking scenarios
- Expectation to communicate mathematically
- Introduction of math concepts needed for AP courses or high school honors courses
- More independent learning skills expected
- Ability to self advocate
- Ability to make connections between concepts
- Minimal re-reaching when concept connections occur
Doubling in Math
Students must meet grade requirements to be considered for doubling in mathematics. Students MUST meet the prerequisites for both courses to qualify. Meeting the grade requirement for each course individually doesn't mean that the student is eligible to double. Please consult the placement criteria to check eligibility.
Summer Advancement in Math
Geometry with Trigonometry H is the only course available for summer advancement. Students in grade 8 who have successfully completed Algebra I H with an overall course grade of B- (80%) or higher OR Algebra I with an overall course grade of A- (90%) or higher, can apply for summer advancement in Geometry with Trigonometry H. Students must complete the Summer Advancement Waiver Form to get a conditional approval before enrolling in the summer advancement course based on student's projected grade. The conditional approval is only valid if students end the year with an overall course grade of 90% or higher in Algebra I or an overall course grade of 80% or higher in Algebra I H.
The students will need an overall grade of at least A- or 90% for the summer advancement course and at least an A- or 90 on the department final to move to Algebra II H. In Grade 9, if the student should need to drop Algebra II H, his/her only option will be to take a full year of Geometry with Trigonometry H. The deadline to submit the advancement form is in April.
There will be a Department Final Exam given in August 2025 (date and time will be shared in the Conditional Approval Letters).
Students will need to score a minimum 90% on the exam in addition to a final course grade of 90% on the summer advancement course to qualify for Algebra II H.
Mathematics Courses
In general, math placement will be determined based on a student's final course grade in their previous year's math course.
In general, a grade of at least C- (70%) is required to stay on a given track, while a grade of at least A- (90%) is required to move into a new track sequence as specified in the placement matrix. Students are expected to purchase a TI-84 graphing calculator at the beginning of Algebra I as preparation for state standardized tests as well as for future math courses at both Churchill Junior High School and East Brunswick High School.
- 1155 - Algebra I
- 1159 - Geometry with Trigonometry
- 1167 - Algebra II
- 1160 - Algebra II ACC
- 1162 - Algebra II Honors
- 1169 - Fundamentals of College Mathematics
- 1158 - Pre-Calculus
- 1161 - Pre-Calculus ACC
- 1163 - Pre-Calculus with Limits Honors
- 1176 - Calculus
- 1168 - Calculus Honors
- 1183 - Calculus II Honors
- 1182 - Calculus III Honors
- 1180 - Statistics Honors
1155 - Algebra I
Grade 10 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This is a first course in elementary algebra, which uses inductive approaches to develop the basic algebraic operations. Topics studied include integers and operations, solving linear equations and inequalities, polynomials, graphing linear and non-linear functions, factoring, fractional equations, irrational numbers, data analysis and verbal/word problems. Problem solving will also be a major component of this course, as will the infusion of graphing calculator lessons and activities. Students enrolled in this course must take the Algebra I NJSLA Assessment. Showing proficiency on the Algebra I NJSLA Assessment is currently a state graduation requirement. This course is also available at CJHS (2176). Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1159 - Geometry with Trigonometry
Grade 10 & 11 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This course develops an understanding of geometry using basic properties, postulates and theorems in the study of triangles, quadrilaterals, and congruence. Other topics include similarity, circles, area, volume, coordinate geometry, transformational geometry, and an introduction to the trigonometric functions and their applications in the right triangle. Students enrolled in this course must take the Geometry NJSLA Assessment. This course is also available at CJHS (2172). Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1167 - Algebra II
Grade 10 & 11 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This course is a continuation and extension of the concepts studies in Algebra I and Geometry with Trigonometry. Topics include; extending linear and quadratic functions, polynomial functions, analysis of non-linear functions, statistics and sequences and series. Students enrolled in this course will be expected to purchase either a TI-83+ or TI-84 graphing calculator. These learning tools will be used throughout the course as a means of problem solving and investigation. Students enrolled in this course must take the Algebra II NJSLA Assessment. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1160 - Algebra II ACC
Grade 10 & 11 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This course is a continuation and extension of the concepts studies in Algebra I and Geometry with Trigonometry. Topics include; extending linear and quadratic functions, polynomial functions, analysis of non-linear functions, statistics and sequences and series. In addition, this course will include advanced factoring applications, operations with rational expressions, and conic sections. Students enrolled in this course will be expected to purchase either a TI-83+ or TI-84 graphing calculator. These learning tools will be used throughout the course as a means of problem solving and investigation. Students enrolled in this course must take the Algebra II NJSLA Assessment. This course is also available at CJHS (2180). Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1162 - Algebra II Honors
Grade 10 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This course is intended for the academically talented student in mathematics. In addition to the topics covered in Algebra II, students will be expected to demonstrate independent thinking as they explore and solve in depth problems related to the applications of the covered topics. Students enrolled in this course will be expected to purchase either a TI-83+ or TI-84 graphing calculator. These learning tools will be used throughout the course as a means of problem solving and investigation. Students enrolled in this course must take the Algebra II NJSLA Assessment. This course is also available at CJHS (2171). Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1169 - Fundamentals of College Mathematics
Grade 12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This course is designed to provide the student with a strong command of the skills and concepts needed for success in entry-level college mathematics courses. The course presents the algebra of functions and trigonometry of the right angle. In addition, one of the primary goals of this course is to prepare the students for the expectations of a college placement test such as the Accuplacer. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1158 - Pre-Calculus
Grade 11 & 12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This course includes a review of essential skills from Algebra, introduces polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions, and gives the student an in-depth study of trigonometric functions and their applications. Problem-solving and investigation through the use of the graphing calculator is an integral part of this course. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1161 - Pre-Calculus ACC
Grade 11 & 12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This course gives the student the necessary background for the study of calculus by providing an extensive study of functions and their graphs. Polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions are addressed along with the trigonometric functions, trigonometric identities, trigonometric equations, and polar coordinates. Problem-solving and investigation through the use of the graphing calculator is an integral part of this course. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1163 - Pre-Calculus with Limits Honors
Credits: 5 | Prerequisite: a minimum course grade of C- in Algebra II H OR a minimum course grade of A- in Algebra II ACC
This course is intended for the academically talented student and includes the study of polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions. In addition, topics from calculus (such as limits, continuity, and an introduction to the derivative) will also be introduced in this course as a precursor for Advanced Placement level Calculus. Problem-solving and investigation through the use of the graphing calculator is an integral part of this course. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1176 - Calculus
Grade 12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This is a full year study of the Calculus of algebraic, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Topics include limits, differentiation and its applications, integration and the applications of the definite integral. This course also affords students the opportunity to gain experience with college level material, at a slower pace to set them up for success in college level Calculus courses. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1168 - Calculus Honors
Grade 12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course | Dual-Credit Option
This is a full year study of the Calculus of algebraic, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Topics include limits, differentiation and its applications, integration and the applications of the definite integral. This course also affords students the opportunity to gain experience with college level material and expectations while still enrolled in high school. Please note that while credit is given for this course at the honors level, previous enrollment in honors level math courses is not a prerequisite for this course. (students must take Pre-Calc ACC to qualify for this course). Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1183 - Calculus II Honors
Grade 12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course | Dual-Credit Option
Honors Calculus II will be offered in partnership with Middlesex County College as part of the College Pathways Dual Enrollment program and its rigor will be consistent with a second semester of college calculus. Honors Calculus II includes the study of transcendental and hyperbolic functions, applications of integration, more sophisticated techniques of integration, simple differential equations, parametric curves and vectors, indeterminate forms, Taylor’s formula, infinite series as well as topics in analytic geometry. Please note that while credit is given for this course at the honors level, previous enrollment in honors level math courses is not a prerequisite for this course. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1182 - Calculus III Honors
Grade 12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course | Dual-Credit Option
Honors Calculus III will be offered in partnership with Middlesex County College as part of the College Pathways Dual Enrollment program and its rigor will be consistent with a third semester of college calculus. This course will specifically address advanced topics in calculus. Students will explore the use of multivariable calculus to represent phenomena in three-dimensional space and to analyze functions of more than one variable. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1180 - Statistics Honors
Grade 12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course | Dual-Credit Option
This course will familiarize students with mathematical models that occur in more advanced courses and in professions through the use of exploratory data analysis and statistical methods. Topics include descriptive statistics, probability, regression, confidence intervals and an introduction to hypothesis testing. This course also affords students the opportunity to gain experience with college level material and expectations while still enrolled in high school. Please note that while credit is given for this course at the honors level, previous enrollment in honors level math courses is not a prerequisite for this course. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
Advanced Placement Courses
1166 - AP Statistics
Grade 12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This course is equivalent to a one-semester, introductory, non-calculus-based college course in statistics. The purpose of the course is to introduce the students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: exploring data, planning a study, anticipating patterns, and statistical inference. Exploration and investigation are fostered via the use of technology tools and applications. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1164 - AP Calculus AB
Grade 11 & 12| Credits: 5 |Prerequisites will determine placement into the course. *This course has two prerequisites.
This college-level course stresses elementary functions and analytic geometry as well as the concepts and applications of differential and integral calculus via the use of analytic methods and technology. It prepares students for the AB Advanced Placement Examination as well as more advanced mathematical studies at the college level. The use of technology is an integral part of this course, as are advanced problem-solving strategies and methods. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
1165 - AP Calculus BC
Grade 11 | Credits: 6.25 | Prerequisites will determine placement into the course. *This course has two prerequisites.
This is a college-level course, which is considerably more extensive and rigorous than the Calculus AB course. It prepares the student to take the BC Advanced Placement Examination as well as more advanced mathematical and scientific studies at the college level. All the topics of the Calculus AB course are included, along with additional topics such as differential equations and sequences and series. The use of technology is an integral part of this course, as are advanced problem-solving strategies and methods. Meets NCAA Core Course Requirements.
Supplementary Courses
These courses are taken in addition to the appropriate level math course and are required for those students who do not score at the proficient level on state standardized tests.
- 1157 - Algebra II LAB (Full Year)
- 1154 - Geometry LAB (Full Year)
- 1190 – Senior Math Lab (Semester Course)
1157 - Algebra II LAB (Full Year)
Grade 11 & 12 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This course is intended for students who require additional support in mathematics and is taken in conjunction with Algebra II. Students whose Algebra I and Geometry NJSLA scores were in the partially proficient ranges and/or who earned a final course grade of C or below in Algebra I and/or Geometry w/Trig are strongly encouraged to participate in this course. In addition to supporting the student’s Algebra II experience, this course will also address problem solving and test taking strategies that are consistent with the expectations of state standardized tests.
1154 - Geometry LAB (Full Year)
Grade 10 & 11 | Credits: 5 | Prerequisites will determine placement into course
This course is intended for students who require additional support in mathematics and is taken in conjunction with Geometry with Trigonometry. Students whose Algebra I NJSLA scores were in the partially proficient ranges and/or who earned a final course grade of below C in Algebra I are strongly encouraged to participate in this course. In addition to supporting the student’s Geometry experience, this course will also address problem solving and test taking strategies that are consistent with the expectations of state standardized tests.
1190 – Senior Math Lab (Semester Course)
Credits: 2.5 | Placement based on graduation requirements
This course is a required course for seniors that have not met graduation requirements through the standardized testing or alternate assessments. In this course, the students will work on portfolio assessments to meet their math graduation requirement in addition to taking the Accuplacer exam and other alternate assessments that might help them meet their graduation requirement.
Electives
1042 - SAT Preparation
Grades 10-12 | Credits: 2.5
This semester elective course is designed to help students better prepare for both the verbal and math portions of the SAT exam. Students will utilize a combination of in-person and electronic approaches, to experience the format, requirements, and scoring of the exam. They will also learn various test-taking strategies for success on the SAT. The verbal portion of the course will focus on evidence-based reading and writing tasks, as well as the optional essay component. The math portion of this course is designed to teach students how to approach each type of problem. The semester will be divided in half where students will focus on either verbal or math for the first quarter and then switch to the other content for the second quarter. Ideal candidates for this course are motivated, self- directed learners who can independently complete and submit tasks.