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The Harvard‑Westlake Mathematics department provides a challenging and diverse six-year college preparatory program that meets the needs of students at different stages of development with different levels of ability and interest. The curriculum is technologically current and has both the breadth and depth to provide the mathematical tools for success in a changing society. The program is designed to develop students who will:
- have good number sense and reasoning ability;
- be proficient in the appropriate use of the technological tools currently associated with mathematical thinking in varied real-life situations;
- be able to communicate in the language of mathematics and be able to perform basic algorithms by hand, if required;
- be creative problem solvers who are willing to take risks, try alternative approaches when the first attempt fails, and stick with it until the solution is found;
- be able to work successfully in individual and cooperative situations;
- appreciate the value of mathematical thinking and study mathematics for their entire Harvard‑Westlake careers.
A recommendation is made to each student by his or her current teacher as to the best program of study.
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Prealgebra |
4000-0 |
| Full year —
Grade 7 |
This course reviews and extends the mathematical concepts necessary for algebra. Students are actively engaged in investigating, discovering, and applying mathematics using a variety of real-world applications. Topics include statistics, graphing, probability, geometry, ratio, proportion, percent, integers, rational numbers, exponents, and linear equations. Problem-solving techniques, cooperative learning, and critical thinking skills are emphasized through the use of manipulatives, computer software, and calculators. |
|
Algebra I: Grade
7 |
4100-0 |
| Full year —
Grade 7 |
This fast-paced course challenges students to develop traditional first-year algebra skills quickly and apply them to complex problems. It is designed for students who have a thorough knowledge of prealgebra and requires them to work at an accelerated rate. Participation in local and nationwide contests gives students the opportunity to solve nontraditional problems using the problem-solving strategies they have learned in class.
Prerequisite: Permission of the department. |
|
Algebra |
4110-0 |
| Full year —
Grade 8 |
This course investigates traditional algebraic concepts using a variety of problem-solving strategies. Algebra skills are continually reinforced and applied to new topics as students learn to make connections between algebra and real-world situations. Students are expected to become proficient in solving linear and quadratic equations, graphing equations, and solving word problems.
Prerequisite: Prealgebra and permission of the instructor. |
|
Algebra I |
4120-0 |
| Full year —
Grades 8 and 9 |
This course investigates traditional algebraic concepts using a variety of problem-solving strategies. It is designed for students who have a thorough mastery of prealgebra skills. This fast-paced course challenges students to develop skills quickly and then apply them to more complex problems. Mastery is expected in solving, writing, and graphing both linear equations and linear inequalities, as well as in solving and graphing quadratic equations. Students are expected to become proficient not only in the mechanics of a given topic, but also in its application to word problems.
Prerequisite: Prealgebra and permission of the instructor. |
|
Algebra II: Grade 8 |
4130-0 |
| Full year —
Grades 8 |
This second-year algebra course builds on algebraic and problem-solving skills studied in Algebra I. Students are expected to demonstrate a broad conceptual understanding of linear, quadratic, and higher-level polynomials. Other topics include complex numbers, rational equations, exponential and logarithmic functions, systems of equations, and probability. Throughout the course, students analyze functions using both graphic and algebraic methods. Discovery lessons incorporate the use of computers and graphing calculators. The students participate in local and nationwide math contests.
Prerequisite: Algebra I and permission of the instructor. |
|
Geometry 9 |
4200-0 |
| Full year —
Grade 9 |
This course concentrates on the study of Euclidean geometry. Topics include congruent triangles, parallel lines, quadrilaterals and other polygons, Pythagorean theorem, similar figures, circles, area, volume, coordinate geometry, and constructions. Students develop deductive reasoning skills through the use of proofs. Computers and/or other hands-on labs may be used to explore and discover geometric concepts.
Prerequisite: One year of algebra and permission of the instructor.
|
|
Geometry |
4210-0 |
| Full year —
Grade 9 |
This fast-paced course concentrates on the study of Euclidean geometry while maintaining algebraic skills. Concepts include congruent triangles, parallel lines, quadrilaterals, circles, similar figures, the Pythagorean theorem, perimeter, area, volume, regular polygons, and right triangle trigonometry. Students use theorems and definitions to write proofs and solve practical application problems. The underlying theme of the course is the solution of problems by creating logical, well-supported explanations. Labs and constructions are used to discover and explore geometric concepts.
Prerequisite: One year of algebra and teacher recommendation.
|
|
Geometry Honors |
4220-0 |
| Full year —
Grade 9 |
This course provides an in-depth study of Euclidean geometry as well as an introduction to transformational, coordinate, and three-dimensional geometries. This fast-paced course exposes students to a broad range of topics as it challenges them to interpret complex written problems and to write rigorous proofs. The students participate in local and nationwide math contests.
Prerequisite: One year of algebra and permission of the instructor. |
(from the 2008-2009 Curriculum Guide) |
