Upper School Mathematics

Philosophy/Approach: Foundations established in middle school mathematics courses prepare students to explore a wide variety of topics in mathematics in the upper school. Given that there are many valid approaches to a given problem, Hawken mathematics instructors focus on both process and outcome. Teachers help students through mathematical processes and outcomes by encouraging them to apply previous knowledge to new situations and by modeling multiple approaches to problem solving.
Requirements/Course Sequence:
  • Three years of upper school mathematics are required for graduation; more than 95 percent of Hawken students elect to study mathematics for all four years.
  • The typical sequence is Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2; faculty guide students in choosing an appropriate path through the math curriculum beyond those requirements.
  • Elective courses from topics in discrete mathematics through multivariable calculus give students of a wide range of choice based on their abilities and interests.
  • We offer 2 levels of pre-calculus and 3 levels of calculus; BC Calculus feeds to Multivariable and Linear Algebra.
Highlights:
  • BC Calculus is taught as both a stand-alone and as an integrated course with Physics C.
  • While all courses include “real life” problems/projects as part of the curriculum, AP Stats and Personal Finance and Accounting are best learned through experiential learning opportunities.
Sample Courses:
In addition to the traditional college prep and AP courses, the following electives are offered:
  • Personal Finance and Accounting
  • Problem Solving in Mathematics
  • Topics in Discrete Mathematics
Co-curricular Enrichment Opportunities:
  • Ohio Mathematics League Contests
  • Ohio Council of Teachers of Mathematics Contests
  • American Mathematics Competition
  • Academic Team Competitions
  • Knowledge Master Competitions
 

  • Algebra 1

    Prerequisite: None

    This course introduces students to the algebra of the real number system. Topics covered include equations and inequalities in one and two variables, polynomial and rational expressions, problem solving, irrational numbers, quadratic equations and the function concept.

  • Geometry

    Prerequisite: Algebra 1

    This basic course in Euclidean geometry emphasizes the inductive process. Students are encouraged to discover the concepts of geometry and also work with beginning principles of trigonometry. Formal deductive proofs are studied.

  • Geometry Honors

    Prerequisite: Algebra 1
    The honors course in geometry emphasizes formal deductive proof. The course covers the major topics of Euclidean and coordinate geometry. Students may also study additional topics.

  • Algebra 2

    Prerequisite: Geometry

    In addition to reviewing and expanding on the material of Algebra 1, this course looks at numerous functions: linear, quadratic including complex numbers, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, rational, and square root. Additional topics will include: matrices, systems of equations in three variables, parent functions along with some transformations, sequences, series, and basic probability.

  • Algebra 2 Honors

    Prerequisite: Geometry

    This rigorous course includes the Algebra 2 topics (function that are linear, quadratic including complex numbers, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, rational, and square root; matrices, systems of equations in three variables, parent functions along with some transformations, sequences, series, and basic probability) as well as additional topics including absolute value, linear programming, and graphing linear equations in three variables. The pace is fast and the material is covered in greater depth. Graphing functions and using functions as mathematical models is emphasized. When appropriate, problems are considered from graphical, numerical, and analytic perspectives with the goal of developing each student's ability to easily move from one perspective to another.

  • Functions with Trigonometry

    Prerequisite: Algebra 2
    This course is for students who want to review and expand on the ideas they learned about functions in Algebra 2. This course also introduces students to trigonometry, a necessity for those who anticipate taking college-level mathematics courses. Finally, this course integrates statistics into several lessons, a topic that is increasingly important in the workplace.

  • Accelerated Precalculus

    Prerequisite: Algebra 2
    Advanced Math takes a unit circle approach to the theory and applications of trigonometric functions. The class studies analytic geometry, the subject that relates algebra and geometry. Material covered includes mathematical induction, the theory of equations, the straight line, conics, translations, rotations, polar coordinates, and algebraic curves.

  • Precalculus Honors with Limits

    Prerequisite: Algebra 2
    This course consists of a study of the elementary functions (including an in-depth exploration of the circular functions and their applications), analytic geometry, and assorted other topics, including mathematical induction and limits. Course material is explored in greater depth, at a faster pace, and the approach is more rigorous than in the Advanced Math course. This course is a prerequisite for the AP Calculus BC course.

  • Calculus

    Prerequisite – Advanced Mathematics

    This course will cover most of the topics encountered in the typical first year calculus course, specifically differential and integral calculus of polynomial, rational, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions, along with their applications, but at a less rigorous level than the AP Calculus course.

  • AP Calculus AB

    Prerequisite: Advanced Mathematics

    This course is designed to prepare students for advanced placement in college mathematics. The course follows the Advanced Placement AB syllabus developed by the College Entrance Examination Board and is equivalent to one semester of college calculus.

  • AP Calculus BC

    Prerequisite: Advanced Mathematics Honors or Advanced Mathematics plus a Limits Course

    This honors course is designed to prepare students for advanced placement in college mathematics. The course follows the Advanced Placement BC syllabus developed by the College Entrance Examination Board and is equivalent to two semesters of college calculus. (BC includes all the topics of AB.)

  • AP Statistics

    Prerequisite: Algebra II

    This course is designed to prepare students for advanced placement in college statistics. The course follows the AP Statistics syllabus developed by the College Entrance Examination Board. The course is designed to receive credit, advanced placement, or both for a one semester college statistics course.

     

An independent, coeducational, college preparatory day school, toddler through grade 12

Early Childhood, Lower, and Middle Schools, 5000 Clubside Rd, Lyndhurst, OH 44124
Birchwood School of Hawken, 4400 West 140th Street, Cleveland, OH 44135 
Upper School, PO Box 8002 (12465 County Line Rd), Gates Mills, OH 44040
Mastery School of Hawken, 11025 Magnolia Dr, Cleveland, OH 44106
Gries Center, 10823 Magnolia Dr, Cleveland, OH 44106

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