MATHEMATICS Mathematics is a discipline with broad applicability throughout the natural and social sciences: Whether we are modeling climate change, forecasting financial markets, or securing Internet sites, we are using math. Yet there is also a more subtle beauty in mathematics: an elegance arising from its interconnectedness and simplicity. We strive to develop logical, creative-thinking students who can apply technology and hands-on techniques to real-world and abstract problems. Our learning environment fosters active participation, self-discipline, and perseverance. Our program begins in the Middle School, where math is presented as an active and exciting subject. Working in groups, in pairs or alone, students explore a problem-centered curriculum; how to observe relationships and patterns in complex sets of data; and learn that asking "why" and "how" leads to deep understanding of the material. In the Upper School, students continue to strengthen their reasoning skills and their ability to manipulate and apply mathematical concepts. After completing geometry and two years of algebra, students will take courses from a rigorous curriculum that includes Precalculus, Calculus, Statistics, and Computer Science, with AP options in Calculus, Statistics, and Computer Science.
>>MIDDLE SCHOOL Upper Prep Mathematics In Upper Prep Mathematics, students are asked to look for patterns, estimate, comprehend data, reason and problem solve. Students interact with teachers to do hands-on, rich experiments and must be prepared to be part of an active learning process. Working in pairs, in larger groups and on their own to discover new methods of solving problems, students deepen their understanding of mathematics. They are often asked to justify their answers and thoughts. “How?”, “Why?” and “What if?” are just as common as “What is the answer?” Students learn how to discuss, conjecture, validate, generalize, extend, connect, document and communicate. As a result, students develop a deep understanding of concepts and the inclination and ability to reason and make sense of new situations. Students learn about algebra, geometry, measurement, number, and operations. There is an emphasis on making meaning of the relationships between numbers and being able to connect key concepts and big ideas. Curriculum is integrated so that Upper Prep students understand and recognize the correlation between different topics in mathematics. In order to be successful, Upper Prep students are expected to have a working knowledge of basic facts.
Form 1 Mathematics This course continues the work begun in Upper Prep mathematics, adding a more in-depth look at topics important in the understanding of algebra and number. Students extend their understanding of proportional reasoning by developing an understanding of congruence and mathematical similarity. They are challenged to understand why procedures work and to discover rules for operating with integers, three-dimensional geometry and foundational algebraic processes. They review rational numbers and Kingswood Oxford’s Course of Study 2020-2021
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