Mathematics
Critical Thinking - Math is More than Computation A firm grasp of mathematical concepts is fundamental to success in math. Students must have a thorough understanding of the mathematical processes and know how to use the processes to produce accurate solutions. While memorization is an essential component in math, students need to pair comprehension with the math concepts that they have memorized in order to succeed in higher-level mathematics. A major goal of the Secondary Math program (grades 7-12) is to help students become critical thinkers and life-long problem solvers. Education is more that just getting good grades. It is learning to think for oneself. Students are encouraged not only to perform calculations but also to be able to explain and justify answers by applying critical-thinking skills. Our academically rigorous materials prepare students to excel in standardized assessments as well as college-level mathematics. —BJU Press
Algebra 1 (College Prep with Honors option)
Anthony Myers, Instructor
This course provides the foundation for secondary mathematics study and focuses on the integration of algebraic concepts in technology and real-life applications. It begins with a review of the real number system, its operations, variables, and solving variable equations. Students then explore inequalities; absolute value; and the simplification, solving, graphing and interpretation of linear, exponential, radical, quadratic, and rational functions both manually and with technology.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of PreAlgebra (Grade of 80 or above) or successful score on the placement test
Required Texts: Holt McDougal Larson Algebra 1 Student Edition 2011
ISBN: 0547315155 or 9780547315157
Purchase Online: New or Used on Amazon
Calculator Required: TI-84 Plus
Geometry (College Prep with Honors option)
Anthony Myers, Instructor
This course covers concepts of Euclidean geometry including definitions, postulates, and theorems. Topics will include reasoning, constructions, discovering and proving properties of triangles, polygons, and circles, area, Pythagorean’s Theorem, volume, and trigonometry. An honors option is available.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 (Grade of 80 or above)
Required Texts: Holt McDougal Larson Geometry Student Edition 2011
ISBN: 0547315171 or 9780547315171
Purchase Online: New or Used on Amazon
Algebra 2 (College Prep with Honors option)
Anthony Myers, Instructor
This course develops algebraic thinking skills and improves manipulation skills. With an emphasis on thinking and reasoning skills, discussions center upon quadratic equations, polynomials, complex numbers, and trigonometry. Operations, linear equations, linear relations, polynomial functions, radicals, complex numbers, inverse functions, probability & statistics, and other elements are also explored.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 (Grade of 80 or above).
Required Materials: Holt McDougal Larson Algebra 2 Student Edition 2011
ISBN: 0547315260 or 9780547315263
Purchase Online:
Please try not to accidentally buy a “state” edition (it will say “Florida” on the front cover, for example)
Calculator Required: TI-84 Plus
PreCalculus (College Prep with Honors option)
Anthony Myers, Instructor
Fridays only, 8:30am-10:30am
This course builds upon foundational algebraic and geometric concepts to create a broad new understanding of higher-order mathematics. After sufficient review of fundamental skills such as solving quadratic equations and manipulating polynomial expressions, we will dive deeper into these and other familiar topics in order to study advanced applications. New areas of mathematics such as logarithmic and rational functions will also be introduced. After PreCalculus, the student who plans to attend university for a STEM major will be equipped to meet the challenge of Calculus. The student who plans to attend university for a humanity or other math-unrelated major will be thoroughly prepared to perform exceedingly well in a Gen-Ed college math. And the student who plans to proceed directly into the work force will find their critical thinking, logical creativity, and problem solving skills all greatly enhanced.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 2 and Geometry (Grade of 80 or above).
Required Materials: Blitzer PreCalculus 4e
ISBN: 0321559843 or 9780321559845
Renting: Mr. Myers currently has 3 copies available to rent for $10 per school year. Please email him as soon as possible to reserve your rental.
Purchase Online:
Please try to buy an edition matching the ISBN numbers exactly and with this same cover photo. We have had problems in the past with misaligned page numbers.
Calculator Required: TI-84 Plus
Personal Finance (formerly named Financial Literacy)
Anthony Myers, Instructor
(on hiatus for 2024-2025 school year)
Recommended for 10th-12th grades
This course is an innovative combination of consumer math, financial literacy, and personal responsibility. The focus will be on real-life situations the students will encounter as they enter adulthood. Students will learn how to prepare to make financial decisions that are wise and glorify God. This class will meet South Carolina state requirements of a Personal Finance course (which upcoming legislation is expected to require by 2026). Alternatively, students might also be able to count it as a fourth math credit, or an elective credit. Please consult with your homeschool association to determine which they will accept.
Required Materials: Managing Your Personal Finances by Joan S. Ryan, 6th edition* ISBN: 9781133467007
Calculator Required: Any standard calculator.
* Mr. Myers has copies available to rent for $10 per school year. Please contact him to reserve.