Mathematics

The mathematics curriculum aims to instill habits of mathematical thinking that will prepare students for further inquiry in math and for using quantitative reasoning throughout life. The department helps students recognize the relationships represented by the language of mathematics and learn essential problem-solving skills such as conjecturing, sense-making, and analyzing strategies and solutions.

Through appropriately challenging experiences, students have the opportunity to puzzle over relationships and to develop the habit of questioning. Discovery is recognized as a valuable tool in the learning of math; this discovery takes place in teacher-led classes, individual explorations, and in learning groups that offer a natural context for practicing mathematical communication. At all levels, technology is used to relieve the constraints of tedious computation and to help students conjecture about the mathematics they are studying. Graphing calculators and personal computers enable students to solve problems utilizing rapidly evolving modern methods. Students are taught to approach mathematics from multiple perspectives, including numerical, graphical, and symbolic.

Taking direction from the NCTM Standards and the College Entrance Examination Board, the Math Department strives to engage all students with the challenge, excitement, and relevance of math.

Grade 7: In Grade 7 students prepare for higher mathematics courses such as algebra, geometry, and calculus. Topics include modeling linear functions, solving equations, and working with two- and three-dimensional geometry. At the same time, students broaden and enrich their math background with topics such as statistics, data analysis, and proportional reasoning. Mini-projects, open-ended problems, group work, and writing assignments play vital roles in our core curriculum. These activities are important for developing both higher-order thinking skills and communication skills in students. Students use graphing calculators extensively. We offer an advanced pre-algebra course for students whose preparation so indicates.

Grade 8: Three separate algebra sections are offered: Algebra 1A, Algebra 1, and Algebra 1 Honors. All courses focus on the interrelations of the most important ideas of elementary algebra: graphing, using variables, writing and solving equations, and modeling with functions. Although students still learn how to do standard manipulations and how to solve standard problems, they do so in more meaningful contexts and with a better understanding of why these manipulations lead to the solution. Graphical solutions using technology are also emphasized. The Algebra 1 courses are fast-paced, finishing a full first-year Algebra course in one year. Students enrolled in Algebra 1A cover the topics of the first-year course in two years, finishing at the end of Grade 9.