The Mathematics Department of St. Francis High School is guided by the philosophy of the school. We believe the study of mathematics can benefit each and every student at St. Francis. There are two major components of the benefit to be derived from the study of mathematics. One benefit that is easily demonstrated and evaluated is the increase in the student’s repertoire of computational skills and problem-solving abilities. The second benefit, equally important but less easily measured, is the realization on the part of the student that the problem-solving skills developed in the math class are applicable to all areas of life, including the moral and spiritual. The department strives to promote a curriculum and classroom atmosphere that maximize the development of each student’s innate mathematical abilities and enhance her appreciation of the value of a study of mathematics.

Mathematics Course Sequence
For more information about Math course offerings, visit the Course Catalog.

• Algebra 1: 1A/1B, regular, or XL
• Honors or Regular Geometry
• Algebra 2: 2A/2B, regular, or honors
• Honors or Regular Precalculus
• AP or Regular Calculus

Facts about the Mathematics Program

• Although the St. Francis graduation requirement is three years of math, most seniors graduate with four years of math.
• In 2005, the SF SAT I mean math score was 554 compared to 522 for all California students (504 for females) and 520 for the nation (504 for females).
• In 2006, the St. Francis passage rate on the AP Calculus AB exam was 92.6%; 17 of the 27 students who took the test earned a “5” (the highest possible score).
• SF students participate in Mathletes, a math competition between area high schools.

Diocesan Mathematics Competencies for High School Entrance

St. Francis High School expects that all incoming freshmen will have a solid foundation in arithmetic and have completed a study of pre-algebra so they are ready to begin Algebra 1. Completion of Algebra 1 and or Geometry while still in elementary school does not give an applicant an advantage in admission. Students who have completed Algebra 1 or a higher math will be evaluated for proper placement.

Students who excel in math but have not mastered Algebra 1 prior to freshman year have ample opportunity to accelerate their placement by attending summer school in order to take Calculus in their senior year.

Basic Skills and Concepts Expected Prior to Admission

• Be proficient in each of the arithmetic operations and their reciprocals using each type of numerical value (integers, fractions, decimals and percents)
• Have a solid functional and conceptual knowledge of all sign conventions
• Be proficient in application of the concepts of variables, equations, inequalities, formulas, substitution and other pre-algebra skills
• Understand and use positive and negative numbers
• Use correct mathematics terminology
• Understand measurement and conversion

Department Chair:
Susan Campbell
916.452.3461 ext. 154
SCampbell@stfrancishs.org