The Mathematics programs at CTC prepare students for today’s job market by giving them the skills necessary to understand and relate mathematics to their own program of study. The goal is to create a successful learning environment for every student and promote the value of mathematics. Students should understand the concepts as they relate to the workplace and to the larger society in which they live and work. They should be able to discover a meaningful relationship between abstract ideas and practical applications in the real world. The mathematics department at CTC consists of three teachers. The course offerings vary each year according to the needs of the students. Courses range from Introduction to Mathematics to Pre-Calculus. Math courses are offered for students whose home-school schedule does not allow room for a math course. Some of the shops at CTC require students to take and pass four years of mathematics despite the state requirement of only three math credits for graduation. CTC math classes are generally small allowing for ample individualized attention. All CTC math classes do PSSA review throughout the year.
Introduction to Applied Math
This course is designed to help students understand and perform the four basic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division on whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents. Students will also work with ratio, proportion, and percent concepts. There is no textbook for this course. A computer program called, “Accelerated Math”, will generate worksheets, quizzes, and tests for students at their skill level. This is done so that students with different abilities can progress at a rate that allows them to learn without feeling frustrated or bored.
Essentials of Algebra I
Essentials of Algebra I is an algebra course designed to present the most fundamental concepts and study skills that are needed in order to be successful in an Algebra 1 course. Emphasis is placed on daily preparation, completion of homework assignments, and note taking. Algebra topics include but are not limited to: problem solving techniques, estimation, data analysis, evaluating algebraic expressions, signed numbers, linear equations, factoring, and graphing. Use of scientific calculators is permitted in this course.
Essentials of Algebra II
Essentials of Algebra II is a continuation of Essentials of Algebra I. The skills of Essentials of Algebra I, note taking, daily preparation and completion of homework assignments, are still emphasized. The topics of study will include but are not limited to: relations and functions, linear systems and operations with polynomials as well as expansion of coverage from Essentials of Algebra I. Use of a scientific calculator is encouraged in this course.
Essentials of GeometryEssentials of Geometry introduces the concept of space and design. Postulates and theorems that examine special cases of lines, planes, triangles, polygons, circles and solid figures are covered extensively. Area, surface area, and volume of various solids are also taught in this course along with some trigonometric topics. Attention is also given to proofs. Students develop skills in logic and review and strengthen their algebraic skills by solving geometric problems. Prerequisites include successful completion of Algebra I with a working knowledge of equation solving, roots, exponents and irrational numbers.
