Precalculus Course Information
Academic vs. AP vs. Onramps
Why Precal instead of AQR or Statistics?
Continues the progression of skills from Algebra II
Applies Alg II skills towards trigonometric, polar and parametric functions.
Enhances mathematical skills as they apply to real world scenarios
Provides a great foundation for students interested in the STEM field
Greatly prepares you for college algebra and helps to ensure a successful path to AP Calculus
Core Concepts for Precalculus
1st semester focuses on reinforcing skills from algebra II with an introduction into trig ratio
2nd semester focuses on Trigonometric concepts including the unit circle, applications of triangles, and transformations of trig functions. We also introduce polar and parametric functions and sequences and series
Differences in Levels of Precal
AP
Goes beyond the core concepts, additionally covering angular and linear velocity along with other topics.
Students prove equations using given information
HW problems will be related to the skills taught in class
The demand outside of the classroom is 3-4 hours per week.
Academic
Math class geared for those on the STEM track focusing on the core concepts on Precal
Guided proofs to extrapolate new formulas
HW problems parallel closely to the examples in class.
The demand outside of the classroom is about 2 hours per week.
Onramps Precal vs. Bowie Precal
Onramps
Key differences between Onramps and other Bowie Precalculus courses
1. Recommend for seniors and juniors with teacher approval
2. It is expected that you retain your algebra II knowledge and skills over the summer. UT pacing does not allow � time for reteaching.
3. Onramps is a dual-enrollment course where students can receive college credit for pre-calculus from UT while simultaneously receiving high school credit.
4. Onramps precalculus follows a curriculum designed by UT Austin and does NOT follow the same order as other Bowie pre-calculus courses.
5. Onramps precalculus uses a pedagogy called inquiry-based learning where students explore content in groups and make frequent class presentations. It is not teacher-led.
6. Traditionally, Onramps Precalculus is populated by students coming from Advanced Algebra 2 or students from academic Algebra 2 with a 95 average or higher.
7. UT dictates exam dates that are not flexible and scoring guidelines for all exams
Student Expectations
Students are expected to use BLEND along with other electronic resources throughout the course.
Following an absence students are responsible for all make up work. The student is expected to schedule all missing assignments with the their direct teacher.
Tutoring is highly suggested following an absence. Students are expected to have used the resources to look over what was missed PRIOR to tutorials.
Questions?
If you have any other questions you may email the below teachers for more clarification
On-Ramps Precal: natasha.weissmiller@austinisd.org
AP Precal: kelly.flickinger@austinisd.org
Academic Precal: peyton.bobo@austinisd.org