More so than most other disciplines, mathematics is a sequential subject. Each semester builds upon the work of the previous semester, adding new concepts and approaches with a minimum reinforcement of previous knowledge. Therefore, the Mathematics Department believes that students should have a strong problem-solving ability. Tests or homework assignments that require only multiple-choice answers are not an acceptable assessment tool in mathematics. At least half of the test or homework assignment must require students to show work, and the teachers grade the work, not just the answer.
The Mathematics Department recognizes the importance of having students work with data throughout the curriculum. In many courses, students are given the opportunity to learn about the modeling of functions by using data taken from real world situations. The students will learn how to apply “continuous mathematics” to data taken from disciplines including science, politics, and current events.
The Mathematics Department offers a sequence of rigorous courses that cover traditional college preparatory material. At the same time, Benjamin recognizes that all students do not acquire mathematical skills at the same rate or develop the ability for abstract thinking at the same age. There is no 9th grade mathematics course, for instance; rather, our offerings provide a variety of placement options at a given grade level. The goal of placement decisions is to offer all students a course that challenges them and allows them to take risks, but at the same time provides a reasonable opportunity to experience the satisfaction of success.
Students need to have a TI-84 graphing calculator starting with geometry. The aim of the department is to use the calculator as a tool in learning, not merely to get an answer. Teachers place an emphasis on number sense and the ability to solve problems without the calculator. Students must do a problem analytically, then check their work with a calculator, or they can do the problem using a calculator, then show analytically that the answer is correct. The Mathematics Department does not believe in advancing students beyond their ability level. The foundations of algebra and geometry are essential for a good math program. Pushing students too quickly through these basic courses does not make them better mathematicians. Rather it tends to frustrate the student and destroys the love of mathematics and learning. The aim of the Mathematics Department is to produce students with a strong mathematics and problem-solving background. Students must earn four credits in mathematics while in the high school to be eligible for graduation. As part of their math curriculum either in middle school or high school, they must have had Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry. See the chart below for guidance.