The mathematics department offers classes ranging from Algebra I through Calculus and Statistics, in regular, honors, and Advanced Placement sequences. After the core subjects have been completed in a students’ curriculum, we have 6 additional electives (at varying levels) from which the students can choose to enrich or enhance their mathematics education. While we continue to teach basic math concepts and skills that have been part of our curriculum for years, we recognize the need to be aware of the latest trends in mathematics education and implement effective ones. An emphasis on a multi-representational approach to functions is made in all of our classes. We are currently aligning our curriculum to the Common Core State Standards.
The placement of students into honors classes is initially done by the Freshman Admissions Office standards based on entrance exam scores. After freshman year, the following guidelines are followed for Honors and Regular class placements:
- Regular Level: This level is open to all students in each grade level.
- Honors Level: This level is available for highly motivated students who meet the following criteria:
A semester grade of “A” in the current regular Math class (plus teacher recommendation) or a grade of “B” or higher in a current Honors Math class
Our best problem solvers are encouraged to join the math team-which competes in citywide, regional, and state competitions. We provide math support for students who fall behind in their classes through daily tutoring opportunities by math teachers during lunch in our “Math Lab”; after school tutoring through a daily classroom tutoring schedule; and on Saturday mornings at Lane throughout the school year. Tutorial CDs, online textbook access, and practice workbooks are available for students in the core subject areas (Algebra, Geometry, and Advanced Algebra with Trigonometry, and Pre-calculus). Students in our A.P. classes have access to additional software to prepare them for the A.P. exams.