Pre-Calculus has much in common with Algebra 2, but is aimed slightly more at tools and concepts specifically needed for successful completion of a Calculus course. It is usually considered to be slightly more advanced than an Algebra 2 course. Also, Trigonometry generally plays a bigger role in a Pre-Calculus course, while in an Algebra 2 course it is usually lightly touched on near the end of the course. Also, there is usually more time spent on conic sections.

In a Pre-Calculus course, some time might be spent on linear relations, followed by polynomials (with factoring) and rational functions (functions with are ratios of two polynomial expressions). A significant chunk of the class is dedicated to Trigonometry, which if taught at a sufficiently advanced level, may be a first introduction to axioms, propositions, postulates, theorems and proofs. Conic sections will likely also be covered in depth. Other topics may include logs and exponents, complex numbers (with polar coordinates), sequences and series, and some basic combinatorics and probability.

There is a lot of material in a Pre-Calculus course, and this material can either be understood in a connected, unified manner such that new links may be easily made between one topic and another, or memorized as a set of formulas and algorithms with low content retention after conclusion of the final exam. With my help, you or your child will gain a real holistic understanding of your Pre-Calculus material, and will take away not only a lot of long-term knowledge for your effort (which will help on standardized tests, more advanced math courses, and so forth), but a lifelong feeling of mathematical confidence.

I provide supplementary instruction (tutoring) for Pre-Calculus for $35 an hour. I provide more comprehensive homeschool instruction, including assigning homework and administering tests and quizzes for $50 an hour.