Our growing mathematics faculty challenges students with critical thinking skills to solve difficult mathematics problems. However, more than simply creating complex mathematics assignments, our Mathematics Faculty urges students to think more independently. We teach students to ask the right questions. Students need to anticipate patterns and analyze why such patterns are important for learning.

Learning Through Practice

Mastering mathematics requires much more than simply learning mathematical theories, formulae and general methods of problem-solving. Learning the general forms and formulae are important as a foundation, but students often will not be able to put them into practice. Application of knowledge is far more valuable. Rigorous and continual practice is the best method of learning to solve problems with a higher level of critical thinking.

Reviewing Errors and Finding Multiple Solutions

Reviewing errors is crucial for mathematics training. Students must learn to identify mistakes in order to avoid committing the same mistakes. Although mathematics is often considered precise, as answers are either right or wrong, the process of problem-solving is actually more abstract. The same solution can often be reached via multiple methods. Teaching students to solve problems through various methods is vital in increasing accuracy and solidifying solutions.

Calculator Independence

Many standardized tests include a formula sheet in the exam. For example, the SAT Math Test—Calculator is a calculator-optional test that provides formulae. Calculators are permitted but not deemed necessary to solve questions. Teaching students to not depend on calculators is important to build concept knowledge. Oftentimes, calculators slow down students during timed tests. Thus, students are often more efficient when calculating in their heads.

Building Up Your Knowledge

The importance of mathematics cannot be understated. Mathematics is taught in schools from a young age and each year the mathematics progresses to more challenging levels. The newer and more advanced mathematics will depend on a mastery of the previous knowledge. This is key in mathematics. Students will struggle by cutting corners. Building blocks and solid muscle memory retention take sufficient time to establish.

Statistics

Statistics can be viewed as a combination of mathematics and science. Various mathematical elements, such as formulae and calculations, are combined with more scientific elements, such as experiments and hypotheses. Compiling, untangling and organizing a surplus of complex data is often very complicated. But that is the beauty! After breaking down every minute detail, students will be able to see wonderful patterns. Statistics will help students with a variety of subjects, such as mathematics, economics, human geography, history, sustainability and even politics. We often receive requests to train high school students for Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics.