TEACHER PAGES

Mission Statement

The mission of the mathematics department is to expand each student's understanding and abilities in mathematics. This ranges from basic algebraic concept development to complex calculus-based analysis and synthesis. Within our program we offer courses that continually challenge and support the needs of every student, while building applicable skills needed in our complex world. Mathematics is the language of science. It is critical to economics, business, meteorology, architecture, engineering and computer science to name just a few. Mathematics also has a base in art, design and music. Perspective, definition and pattern add to the beauty of the world around us. Our hope is that students leave high school with a better connection between mathematics and the opportunities that lie ahead.

The math curriculum links the school’s mission and the school’s expectations for student learning throughout each course. Each piece of L-E-A-R-N is incorporated into the classroom work and overall course requirements.

Requirements

Students are required to complete 3 credits in Mathematics.
A prerequisite for the Academic-A1 level as a 9^th grader is a mastery of pre-algebra concepts in grade 8.
A student who has not completed Algebra 1 within the Hamilton-Wenham School District will be required to show adequate understanding of algebra 1 concepts and algorithms prior to enrolling in a geometry course.
Pre-requisites must be met prior to taking a course.

Recommendation

The mathematics department strongly recommends that if possible, every student purchase a TI-84 graphing calculator. This calculator will fit the needs of any student from freshman year in high school through college and into graduate school or the work force. We believe that utilizing a graphing calculator increases a student’s understanding of concepts and allows a broader deeper exploration of mathematics throughout our curriculum. The TI-84 graphing calculator offers some very useful built-in applications that are used in some of our courses. Classroom sets of calculators are available but we do not allow students to bring the calculators home.