- Algebra 1 – Algebra 1 is often referred to as a “gatekeeper” subject, meaning it opens doors for the student to higher levels of math. Algebra 1 is a language we use to describe patterns in a very simple manner. It’s a beautiful shorthand that allows us to perform repetitive processes or calculations in one easy step!
- Geometry – Through geometry, we learn to describe and measure the size, shape and position of figures in space. This is the branch of math where the student learns to think and visualize objects in three dimensions. It’s a whole different animal than algebra, so some students struggle with this shift in their thinking process.
- Algebra 2 – In algebra 2 the student learns advanced algebraic tools and how to apply them to the world around us. New topics are introduced in algebra 2, such as logarithms, conic sections, matrices, and imaginary and complex numbers. These advanced topics are fun to learn, but they take more focus and concentration on the student’s part. My approach to teaching algebra 2 is to show the student how the formulas are derived, rather than just how to plug numbers into them. In this way, the student comes away with greater confidence and success in solving the problems.
- Precalculus – Precalculus consists of the subjects and skills needed to understand calculus. It involves algebra, trigonometry, coordinate geometry, and lots of functions. Having a strong foundation in precalculus is crucial for mastering the fundamentals of calculus.
- UW in the High School – Math 120 – Precalculus – This is a University of Washington course, for University of Washington credit, that is offered through many local high schools. In this course, the students will learn the basics of several types of functions (linear, quadratic, trigonometric, exponential). They will also learn how to graph and find the inverses of these functions. The emphasis will be on applying these concepts to real world situations through word problems and multi-step problem solving.
- Calculus – In calculus, students learn to transcend, or go beyond, the boundaries of algebra to learn the concepts of limits, continuity, derivatives, and integration. With these tools, they will learn how to study and analyze rates of change from a mathematical perspective.
- UW in the High School – Math 124 – Calculus – This is a University of Washington course, for University of Washington credit, that is offered through many local high schools. This course focuses mostly on differential calculus and applications and problem solving using limits, continuity, and derivatives. The emphasis will be on applying these concepts to real world situations through word problems and multi-step problem solving. In this class, the student’s grade and ability to earn college credit is based on work done throughout the course.
- AP Calculus – This AP course is a college-level course administered by the College Board that prepares students to take the corresponding AP exam, with the goal of earning college credit. AP calculus is mainly devoted to topics in differential and integral calculus. Unlike the UW in the high school class, the student’s ability to earn college credit in AP calculus is based only on their performance on one exam given at the end of the school year.
- SAT Math – The math section of the new SAT consists of two sections, a 25 minute, 20 question section where a calculator is not allowed, and a 55 minute, 35-40 question section where calculators are allowed. I start off by giving my student a full, timed, practice SAT math test. The results of this practice test helps me to determine which concepts need improvement and whether there are any test taking anxiety issues. I also love teaching my students time saving strategies to help them move through the problems more quickly and confidently!
- ACT Math – The math section of the ACT test is a one-hour test with sixty questions. It requires less reading comprehension than its SAT counterpart, but it does have more trigonometry. I start off by giving my students a full, timed ACT math practice test. This helps me to determine which areas need more practice and if there are any test anxiety issues. I also love helping my students find time-saving ways to move through the test more quickly and confidently come exam time.