Mathematics Department » Mathematics Department

Mathematics Department

Welcome to the SSICP Math Department page!
 
  • General Overview
  • Common Expectations
  • Other Resources
General Overview
In the Lower House (grades 9-10), all students take the main Middle Years Program pathway (MYP 4 and 5). The two classes are Integrated Math 1 and Integrated Math 2. Unlike the traditional sequence of classes (Algebra > Geometry > Algebra 2), these integrated classes incorporate concepts from algebra, geometry, and probability/statistics in each year. This course sequence highlights the integrated aspect of mathematics - for example, concepts in algebra are related to concepts in geometry and concepts in probability often overlap with those in algebra. We intentionally spiral skills throughout these first two years so that exposure to a skill comes up multiple times throughout these first years; you may have "seen" a concept or skill in your class in a previous class.
 
In the Upper House (grades 11-12), students have multiple pathways. The first pathway is the Diploma Program, which is a two-years course called Mathematics Applications & Interpretations, Standard Level. We learn concepts from Algebra 2, Precalculus, Statistics, and Calculus. There are three assessments that determine your Diploma credit (Internal Assessment, Paper 1, and Paper 2). The internal assessment is a 12-20 page math exploration. Paper 1 and Paper 2 are free response exams. The second pathway is Integrated Math 3 (11th grade) and Precalculus or Transitional Math (12th grade). Taking Precalculus will prepare you for taking Calculus in college, which will likely be a requirement for students majoring in STEM fields; Transitional Math will prepare you for general math requirements in college.
 
Common Expectations
While each of us have different teaching styles and philosophies, we have common expectations for students in all of our math classes.
 
Practice: there are a lot of algorithms and procedures to learn and memorize in math. Without practice over a period of time, your brain simply will not commit the steps to memory. Complete your homework and study guides to get this practice; do them over and over again to get extra practice.
 
Ask Questions: in order to master mathematics, you need to do more than just memorize steps to solving specific problems. You need to understand the underlying concepts that explain why the steps work. The only way to do this (and the only way for your teacher to assess your understanding) is to ask questions. Ask questions all the time - in class, in emails, in your head.
 
Make Attempts: in math, just like in your future careers, you will be faced with problems you have not seen before. When you can't rely on a previous example, all you can do is make an attempt: give a guess, do some creative problem solving, or write down a list of questions or ideas that seem relevant. Try something and sometimes you'll arrive at a solution.
 
Other Resources
Below are some websites and resources for your scholar. Feel free to reach out to your math teacher with any questions!