PreCalculus Course Overview:

PreCalculus is where we really ramp things up to the next level! This class isn’t about forced word problems — it’s about real, hands-on application across amazing content areas. We will build a solid foundation for practical STEM applications, mathematical thought, and college-level study. Join us as we explore topics from Trigonometry, Polynomials, and Analytical Geometry to Conic Sections, Statistics, and Calculus.

This is often a student’s last class before transitioning into a college-level mathematics course. As such, we run things a little differently. Rather than spending class time as a talking head, each class will be run as a tutorial. I will be introducing new information and walking through examples in class. Students will then be working through problems both with me and independently.

Because our class time will be devoted to interactive problem solving, it would be beneficial for students to have a functional microphone. Writing on the board will be easier with a touch screen or drawing tablet. Optional, but helpful!

Students will be completing all of their graded assignments (homework, quizzes, and tests) through Math XL. They will have 24-7 access to step-by-step walkthroughs, videos, and resources. Grades will be transferred into PowerSchool Learning at the end of each semester.

MathXL is a powerful online homework, tutorial, and assessment system. It includes videos, lecture slides, step-by-step examples for each problem. Using Math XL means that students have access to instant help and feedback. Class instruction becomes more effective and your student is preparing for the college classroom. Parental paperwork is virtually nonexistent!

Prerequisite(s):

Successful completion of Algebra 2 and Geometry

Curriculum:

Precalculus, Blitzer, 5th edition ISBN: 9780321837349

Required Equipment:

A TI-84 Plus (series) or TI-83 graphing calculator

Optional:

Students may purchase the solutions manual that accompanies the textbook.

Syllabus Download:

2021/2022 PreCalculus Syllabus [PDF]

Syllabus Outline:

• Prerequisites Review
• Functions, Graphs, and Transformations
• Polynomials & Complex Numbers
• Rational Functions
• Exponential & Logarithmic Functions
• Systems of Equations
• Systems of Inequalities
• Analytic Geometry
• Trigonometric Functions
• Law of Sines & Law of Cosines
• Conic Sections
• Sequences & Series
• Induction & the Binomial Theorem
• Limits & Continuity
• An Introduction to Calculus

Course Reviews:

“Mrs. Barnosky is always enthusiastic and cheerful in the classroom, and her passion for learning and teaching shines. Before taking classes from Mrs. Barnosky, I loathed math and thought that I would never understand it. Her spirit and encouragement swiftly changed the way that I saw the subject. Without a doubt, Mrs. Barnosky’s greatest strength is her attitude.

Also, Mrs. Barnosky’s PreCalculus class was always very organized. I was never nervous or frightened to attend class because I knew what to expect. Her class pages were easy to read, and I could always find answers to my questions on the FAQ page. As a student, this amount of organization and consistency was very appreciated.”

Meet the Teacher

Bethany Barnosky

Algebra 2, Geometry, Informal Logic, Formal Logic, PreCalculus, Economics

Bethany Barnosky is a master teacher and educational consultant who enjoys life in sunny southern New Hampshire. As a college student, she set aside her interest in the aerospace industry in order to raise her daughter and pursue her passion for teaching mathematics [...]