|
Mathematics
The CJHS Mathematics Department offers a comprehensive college
preparatory curriculum that incorporates traditional teaching methods
along with the most current research in mathematics education and
concepts endorsed by the National Council of Teachers of
Mathematics. CJHS math teachers aim to help each student cultivate an
independent, creative, and analytical approach to problem solving as
well as a high level of comfort with technology--most importantly the
graphing calculator.
The department functions under the assumption that learning is
fun. To generate enthusiasm, CJHS math teachers frequently supplement
instructional materials with games, scavenger hunts, and puzzles,
including Jeopardy, MATHO, Baseball, War, Advanced Chutes & Ladders,
Memory, Set, and Quiz Bowl.
The CJHS Mathematics Department offers 12 different
mathematics courses, including two Advanced Placement courses and a
post-AP Calculus course. The sequence of courses includes Algebra I,
Geometry, Algebra II with trigonometry, Pre-calculus, Advanced
Placement Calculus AB/BC, and Advanced Topics in
Mathematics/Multivariable Calculus. An honors option is available in
Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus. The appropriate placement of
students is important to their success. Each incoming 9th grader's
mathematics background is assessed with the help of teacher
recommendations and an entrance exam. Students are then placed into a
regular or honors course in the proper place in the sequence. Student
placement is reassessed by the teacher yearly, and movement between
the two tracks is allowed depending on the changing needs of the
student.
The approach to teaching employed by CJHS mathematics teachers is
guided in part by the principles set forth by the College Board and
the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Students are exposed
to concepts in a number of ways:
- Graphically/visually: students work with a diagram to relate visually to the concepts being studied.
- Numerically: students recognize the patterns being studied within
data collected from real world phenomena.
- Analytically: students manipulate the symbolic structure of
mathematics efficiently and correctly.
- Verbally: students express their understanding of problems and concepts
well in both spoken and written language.
The effectiveness of the CJHS mathematics curriculum is
evident in the levels of student achievement in math. Students
consistently score well on standardized tests such as the SAT, the
ACT, and the AP Calculus exams. Students also earn competitive marks
in the American Mathematics Competition. In addition to producing high
scores, the CJHS math curriculum stimulates
student interest in mathematics. In classroom discussions, students
display high levels of curiosity and a "can-do" attitude. Nearly all
CJHS students take four years of mathematics rather than the required
three. Outside the classroom, participation in the CJHS mathematics
team is increasing. Student and parent evaluations alike reveal
enthusiasm for mathematics and for the CJHS program.
Did You Know:
CJHS has an active mathematics club that participates in the Illinois Math League’s in-school competitions.
In 2007, three CJHS students qualified to take the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), an examination for high school students with exceptional mathematical ability.
|
Calendar
