Mathematics Department

The goal of the math department is to engage students with the Common Core Math Standards and related mathematical practices, build mathematical literacy and fluency, and apply math to real world scenarios. In class, students work creatively and collaboratively to solve problems, develop logic and reasoning, and hone their mathematical thinking skills.

Our math curriculum consists of the following required courses: Integrated Math 1, Integrated Math 2, and Integrated Math 3. 

Instead of being organized into courses called Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry, the curriculum is organized into units that comprise each year of the program. Units begin with a central problem that is explored and solved over the course of six to eight weeks. Students are guided through a variety of smaller problems within the unit and develop the mathematical concepts and techniques they need to solve the central problem. A particular unit may combine several branches of mathematics so that students see how important ideas are related to each other. 

This curriculum is problem-based and collaborative in nature and quite different from traditional math textbooks. It is very rigorous, requiring students to participate in high-level discussions of ideas, and to focus on the process of their work, not just the content. Students must think critically, communicate, collaborate, and create. 

Students who complete all required classes may take any of the following electives: Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus, AP Statistics, and Dual Enrollment courses offered through the City Colleges of Chicago.