MATH DEPARTMENT


"Mathematics is an exploratory science that seeks to understand every kind of pattern--patterns that occur in nature, patterns invented by the human mind, and even patterns created by other patterns. To grow mathematically, children must be exposed to a rich variety of patterns appropriate to their own lives through which they can see variety, regularity, and interconnections."
- Lynn Arthur Ateen, "On the Shoulders of Giants"

Department Philosophy

The Mathematics Department strives to ensure that all students have the mathematical background that will give them the opportunity to make appropriate choices without being limited by the courses they have taken in high school. Students are encouraged in the belief that "all subjects are roads to knowledge" and therefore they should not base their academic selection on those that interest them at the moment, but rather should have a broad and varied background in many different subjects.

Mathematics gives students the power and ability to appreciate, understand, and reflect on patterns in the world around them. Since all branches of mathematics can be applied to the real world, a knowledge of mathematics enables students to better see and understand other areas in the curriculum as well as to be enriched by the ability to think logically and clearly and to feel confident in a technological society. As mathematically literate women, graduates will be able to take their place in a world in which a knowledge of mathematics will enable them to achieve their personal goals, contribute to the needs of society, and influence the changing role of women in the twenty-first century.

The mathematics courses are designed to offer a strong core curriculum that will enable the students to achieve their academic and professional goals, to reflect the needs of society, and to give students the background to feel confident and comfortable in an information society. The progression of courses builds upon learned skills and ever growing powers of reasoning as students expand their abilities to investigate, calculate, and solve problems in a clear and logical manner.

Department Goals

Upon completion of the mathematics program, students will be able to pursue a career in any field requiring a solid mathematics background. They should feel proud of what they have accomplished and confident in their ability to compete and be successful in any field that requires more than a basic ability in dealing with logic and numbers.

Course of Study

Grade 7: Pre-Algebra/Introduction to Algebra I

Grade 8: Algebra I

Grade 9: Geometry (H, CP)

Grade 10: Algebra II  (AH, H, CP)

Grade 11: Pre-Calculus (AH, H CP)

Grade 12: Calculus (AP, H, CP)

Department Faculty