Mathematics | The Dunham School, Baton Rouge, LA

The curriculum in Math 5 utilizes problem-based learning that allows students to think critically about a real-world math problem, evaluate options, collaborate, and present solutions. Additionally, visual models are used to deepen students’ conceptual understanding of priority skills with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals. The later portion of the course focuses on names and characteristics of 2D and 3D figures. Finally, in preparation for algebra, students are introduced to numerical expressions and graphing on the coordinate plane.

Math 5 Advanced incorporates skills taught in both Math 5 and Math 6 to prepare students for the completion of Algebra I by the end of 8th grade. As a result, the pace at which content must be mastered is much faster than in Math 5 and 6. Additionally, students are expected to work efficiently and independently both inside and outside the classroom. The advanced curriculum is further differentiated from the traditional curriculum by the integration of Singapore Math strategies.

Math 6 continues the combination of problem-based learning and visual models utilized in Math 5. Integers, algebraic expressions, equations, and inequalities are all introduced in Math 6. The concepts of equivalent ratios, unit rates, percents, and data analysis are also emphasized. The study of geometric figures begun in 5th grade continues by delving into the topics of area, surface area, and volume.

Math 6 Advanced continues to build on Singapore Math strategies taught in previous advanced courses while covering the content in a traditional PreAlgebra course. Students that are successful in Math 6 Advanced are enrolled in Algebra 1A Honors for high school credit as 7th graders.

In this course, students are introduced to MyMathLab, an online learning platform used at many highschools and universities. MyMathLab provides a rich and flexible set of course materials in which exercises regenerate algorithmically for unlimited practice and mastery. Additionally, exercises are accompanied by an interactive sample problem, video lectures, animations, and an eBook. Topics of study serve a bridge between concrete computation and abstract thinking. Special emphasis is placed on using algebraic reasoning to solve problems related to money, temperature, and measurement. Students’ gain geometric expertise in the areas of congruent figures, similar figures, and Pythagorean Theorem.

Algebra I is a foundational mathematics course at Dunham.  This course expands the students' understanding of algebraic properties and operations, application of concepts, solving equations and inequalities, and graphing in preparation for all future mathematical courses. Units of study include real numbers, equations and inequalities, proportions, exponents and exponential functions, polynomials, factoring, radicals, and quadratic equations and functions (1 credit).

Algebra IA is the content equivalent to the first semester of a traditional Algebra I course, and Algebra IB is the content equivalent of the second semester of a traditional Algebra I course.  These courses are paired at Dunham and each is taught over an entire academic year, making this a two-year Algebra I experience. Each course paces more slowly than a traditional Algebra I course in order to develop a greater depth of knowledge and understanding in the foundational concepts of Algebra.  Through direct instruction and enhanced application opportunities, students gain a fuller and deeper understanding of algebraic concepts. Problem solving skills are stressed as students dive deeply into the application of fundamental algebra concepts and skills.  These courses provide opportunities for students to explore and solve mathematical problems, think critically, work cooperatively with others, and communicate mathematical ideas clearly in a more in-depth way.

Algebra IA units of study include real numbers, equations and inequalities, proportions, exponents and exponential functions (.5 credit)

Algebra IB units of study include polynomials, factoring, radicals, and quadratic equations and functions (.5 credit).

Algebra IA Honors is the content equivalent to the first semester of a traditional Algebra I course, and Algebra IB Honors is the content equivalent of the second semester of a traditional Algebra I course.  These courses are paired at Dunham and each course is taught over an entire academic year, making this a two-year Algebra I experience. Each course paces more slowly than a traditional Algebra I course in order to develop a greater depth of knowledge and understanding in the foundational concepts of Algebra.  Through direct instruction and enhanced application opportunities, students gain a fuller and deeper understanding of algebraic concepts. Problem solving skills are stressed as students dive deeply into the application of fundamental algebra concepts and skills. These courses provide opportunities for students to explore and solve mathematical problems, think critically, work cooperatively with others, and communicate mathematical ideas clearly in a more in-depth way.

Algebra IA Honors units of study include real numbers, equations and inequalities, proportions, exponents and exponential functions (.5 credit). 

Algebra IB Honors units of study include polynomials, factoring, radicals, and quadratic equations and functions (.5 credit).

Geometry is an investigative style course that explores the concepts of Euclidean geometry through both hands-on investigations and computer lab activities.  Areas of study include inductive and deductive reasoning, sequences and series, constructions, polygons, circles, area and volume, Pythagorean Theorem application, and an introduction to trigonometry. The course has a heavy emphasis on the vocabulary of geometry, the expansion of mathematical communication through numerical, algebraic, graphical, and verbal communication, and the development of complex problem solving skills in groups and through independent work (1 credit).

Geometry Honors is an investigative style course that explores the concepts of Euclidian geometry through both hands-on investigations and computer lab activities.  Areas of study include reasoning, sequences and series, constructions, polygons, circles, area and volume, Pythagorean Theorem application, and an introduction to trigonometry.  In addition to the units of study in college-preparatory Geometry, students will focus on the application of concepts through continuous investigation and an inductive classroom setting. Students will be expected to clearly communicate mathematically through numerical, algebraic, graphical, and verbal methods. The development of complex problem solving skills in groups and through independent work is a cornerstone of this course (1 credit; weighted on maximum 4.5 point scale).

Algebra II builds upon the foundational algebraic concepts learned in Algebra I and Geometry. In particular, this courses focuses on properties and operations with functions. Students will study polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, and logarithmic equations. The course will also expand upon geometrical reasoning skills through the study of conic sections (1 credit).

Algebra II Honors builds upon the foundational algebraic concepts learned in Algebra I and Geometry. In addition to the units of study in college-preparatory Algebra II class, students will focus on the application of concepts in real-life situations. In particular, this courses focuses on the application of properties and operations with functions.  Students will study polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, and logarithmic equations.  The course will also expand upon geometrical reasoning skills through the study of conic sections.  Students are expected to be able to apply the concepts of algebra and geometry and communicate their thoughts and ideas in both group and individual work (1 credit; weighted on maximum 4.5 point scale).

PreCalculus teaches the fundamentals of two mathematical categories: advanced algebra and trigonometry. The advanced algebraic portion of the course exposes student to the topics of linear relations and functions, including the graphing and solving of systems of equations. Specific algebraic topics include the nature of graphs, continuity, critical points and end behavior. Exponential and logarithmic functions, along with polynomial and rational functions, will also be presented in the algebra portion of this course. Through the study of trigonometry, students will expand their initial instruction on the topics of trigonometric functions to include, trigonometric inverses, trigonometric identities, solving trigonometric equations, and polar graphs and equations. Both triangular and circular approaches will be taught (1 credit).

Pre-AP PreCalculus teaches the fundamentals of advanced algebra and trigonometry and provides introductory exposure in calculus fundamentals.  In addition to the units of study in the PreCalculus Honors curriculum, this course also begins the study of the topics taught in Advanced Placement Calculus.   Students who desire to study Advanced Placement Calculus must first take this course. Course units include the nature of graphs, continuity, critical points and end behavior, exponential and logarithmic functions, polynomial and rational functions, trigonometric functions, trigonometric inverses, trigonometric identities, and triangular and circular approaches, sequences, series, sigma notation, limits, and mathematical induction (1 credit; weighted on maximum 4.5 point scale).

Calculus Honors is an introductory level calculus course designed to prepare students for Calculus at the college level. This course allows for students to dually enroll in Louisiana State University’s Business Calculus course (1 semester course for 3 credit hours). Units of study include but are not limited to: limits, continuity, derivatives, marginal analysis, optimization, antiderivatives, integrals and applications (1 credit; weighted on maximum 4.5 point scale).

Advanced Placement Calculus AB is designed to give students the experiences needed to be successful on the College Board AP Calculus AB exam. Calculus applies mathematics to objects and quantities that are in motion and explains the complex relationships behind real world phenomena.  Examples of this include: velocities that are changing, areas and volumes that are changing, and relationships between quantities that change with time. The many practical applications of calculus as well as the theories of calculus will be explored. Students will be required to maintain the pace, rigor, and particular topics pertinent to the College Board AP Calculus syllabus and testing demands. Students completing the course are required to take the AP Calculus AB exam in May (1 credit; weighted on maximum 5 point scale).

Advanced Placement Calculus BC is designed to give students the experiences needed to be successful on the College Board AP Calculus BC exam. Calculus applies mathematics to objects and quantities that are in motion and explains the complex relationships behind real world phenomena. Emphasis is placed on evaluating the soundness of proposed solutions and applying mathematical reasoning to real world models.  Units of study include: functions, limits, derivatives, integrals, and infinite series.  Students will begin to understand change geometrically and visually, analytically, numerically, and verbally. Students completing the course are required to take the AP Calculus BC exam in May (1 credit; weighted on maximum 5 point scale).