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Math

The goals for the Waring Mathematics Program are to foster an appreciation of mathematical reasoning, to develop skills in modeling and solving problems, and to provide a solid foundation in pre-calculus mathematics. To meet this objective, the program is based on an integrated curriculum covering the full range of topics in algebra, geometry, trigonometry, matrices, probability and statistics typical of the most advanced middle and high school curricula today. Students move through the program at a pace that is based on a thoughtful evaluation of their grade, their ability and their learning style. The normal sequence of study is two years of basic concepts in 6th and 7th grade, three years of Intermediate Mathematics in 8th, 9th, and 10th grades, followed by two years of Advanced Mathematics in 11th and 12th grade. In some cases, advanced students meet minimum curriculum requirements by the completion of the 10th or 11th grade year. These students have the opportunity to study calculus at the Advanced Placement (AP) level before graduation.

Courses in basic concepts employ the textbook series, Impact Mathematics: Algebra and More for the middle grades, which coordinates spiraling strands of number and operation, geometry, probability and statistics with algebra in a two-, sometimes three-year sequence, depending on the student. The work focuses on establishing strong basic skills while helping to develop conceptual understanding, problem-solving ability, algebraic thinking, and organizational skills. The needs of a wide range of students are addressed by a balanced use of direct instruction and student discovery in whole-class discussions, collaborative group work, and individual student tasks. After completing the Impact Series, Book 2, advanced students will move on to Impact Series, Book 3. Other students will begin to work in the University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP) textbook series, Algebra.

All intermediate courses transition to the UCSMP textbook series. The series features strands of algebra and functions, geometry and trigonometry, statistics and probability, and discrete mathematics, which are covered in an appropriate sequence. At the intermediate level students will generally progress from either algebra or Impact Mathematics (Book 3) to geometry. Both collaborative group and individual work are used as students explore, conjecture, verify, apply, evaluate, and communicate mathematical ideas and procedures. Students are instructed in the use of TI-84 graphing calculators to support their work. In advanced mathematics courses, students sequence to advanced algebra and pre-calculus. Advanced students who complete pre-calculus by the end of their 10th or 11th grade year can begin the study of calculus.

Requirements

In order to fulfill the minimum mathematics requirement for graduation, students must successfully complete four years of study in the Waring Mathematics Program. Only those seniors who have successfully completed pre-calculus are eligible for intensive study in another area in lieu of mathematics.

For credit in all math courses, students must keep up with assigned homework and demonstrate proficiency in written work, class participation and tests. When appropriate, students make corrections and review problems and worksheets. Students are expected to come to class on time and prepared. More than six late or missed assignments per semester are grounds for no credit.

A student working at honors level will take a leadership role in helping the class run productively and smoothly while regularly doing excellent written work and performing well on tests and quizzes. In addition, the student may have to propose an honors project, receive approval for it and follow it to completion.