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Upper School Math Curriculum

The Durham Academy Upper School Math Department empowers students of all backgrounds and learning styles to:

  • embrace mathematical challenges with perseverance and a growth mindset. 
  • use mathematical tools and techniques to investigate problems and find innovative solutions. 
  • work toward mathematical fluency and precision. 
  • communicate viable arguments using sound mathematical reasoning. 
  • collaborate and communicate across cultures. 
  • cultivate an appreciation for the beauty of mathematics.

The math graduation requirement entails progressing through core classes consisting of Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2, and then completing at least one additional course for which a prerequisite is Algebra 2. In the Upper School, most students go beyond the graduation requirement to complete four full years of mathematics. As students learn the mathematical content covered in their courses, they mature as thinkers and problem solvers in a classroom context through the use of collaboration skills, communication skills and analytical thinking skills. 

Durham Academy’s Math Department has strict guidelines for advancing outside the standard course of study, which can take the form of two concurrent math courses during the academic year and/or independent summer coursework. Students interested in pursuing one of those paths need departmental approval and should contact the math academic leader or Upper School registrar. For example, with a grade of A or better in Algebra 1 and permission from the Math Department, Algebra 2 may be taken concurrently with Geometry. Similarly, with a grade of A or better in each semester of Algebra 1 and permission of the Math Department, Honors Algebra 2 may be taken concurrently with Geometry.

Each student enrolled in a Durham Academy Upper School math course is required to own a TI-84 graphing calculator. In all math classes, the graphing calculator and other computer-based technologies are used to enhance students’ understanding of concepts as well as to carry out certain processes. Proficiency in the use of a graphing calculator is an integral component of the curriculum.


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STUDENTS WILL BE ABLE TO INDEPENDENTLY USE THEIR LEARNING TO:

  • Recognize and utilize math as a universal language, as well as appreciate the beauty of mathematics.
  • Embrace mathematical challenges with perseverance and a growth mindset.
  • Use mathematical tools and techniques to investigate and find innovative solutions based upon the given issue, situation or problem.
  • Apply numeracy skills and the aligned practices to achieve fluency and precision.
  • Communicate viable arguments using sound mathematical reasoning in both independent and collaborative settings, while valuing the perspective of others.

Upper School Math Course Offerings

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MATH 100 • Algebra 1

Algebra 1 builds upon the established mathematical foundation from Middle School by enhancing problem-solving skills and strategies and by encouraging students to communicate using the language of algebra.

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MATH 100 • Geometry

Geometry provides a comprehensive introduction to Euclidean Geometry, starting with points, lines and planes, and building up to 2D and 3D figures. Throughout the course, students will investigate geometric relationships independently and in teams.

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MATH 200 • Algebra 2

Algebra 2 builds on the foundations set in Algebra 1. This course includes algebraic skills and a thorough analysis of linear, quadratic, higher-order polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, inverse, rational and radical functions.

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MATH 200H • Honors Algebra 2

The language of functions is the centerpiece of this course, building on the foundations set in Algebra 1. This course includes reinforcement and application of algebraic skills as well as a thorough analysis of polynomials, exponential, logarithmic, inverse, rational and radical functions.

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MATH 300 • Cryptography

Cryptography covers the mathematics behind cryptography, the practice of encoding information privately and also decoding those messages. We will discuss all different kinds of ciphers, i.e., methods by which messages are turned into code, and we will build our skills in basic number theory (learning topics like modular arithmetic and congruencies) in order to understand how a cipher evolves from an idea to top-secret information.

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MATH 300 • Mathematics of Finance

This course allows students to study several concepts of personal finance and money management, examine how mathematics is used in everyday life and explore several topics that improve financial literacy, including IRAs, CDs, 401Ks, 529s and 1040s.

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MATH 300 • Elements of Precalculus

Elements of Precalculus examines all of the major topics in Precalculus. Fundamental concepts and skills are reviewed more thoroughly, and the pace of the course is slower. Elements of Precalculus is recommended for students earning a B- or below in Algebra 2. Technology is incorporated throughout the course. This course is not designed to prepare students for ADV coursework.

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MATH 300 • Precalculus

Precalculus is a course designed to weave together material from previous math courses, build problem-solving skills and introduce new content in preparation for students to learn calculus.

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MATH 300H • Honors Precalculus

Honors Precalculus is a challenging, fast-paced course designed to prepare students for the study of Advanced Calculus. Students will investigate the properties of a variety of functions and explore ways to use them as mathematical models that describe real-world phenomena.

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MATH 400 • Differential Calculus

Differential Calculus is an introductory college-level course in differential calculus. Students will develop understanding and skills associated with limits and continuity, techniques of differentiation and applications of differentiation. In this course, students will approach concepts and topics graphically, numerically and analytically. They will present their solutions verbally and in writing. Technology will enhance the curriculum and will be used on a regular basis to reinforce skills and concepts.

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MATH 400 • Integral Calculus

Integral Calculus is an introductory college-level course in integral calculus. Students will develop understanding and skills associated with techniques of integration, applications of integration and differential equations and slope fields. In this course, students will be approaching concepts and topics graphically, numerically and analytically. They will present their solutions verbally and in writing. Technology will enhance the curriculum and will be used on a regular basis to reinforce skills and concepts. 

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MATH 400 • Mathematics Teaching Fellowship

Mathematics Teaching Fellowship is designed to prepare students to serve as effective mathematics teaching fellows — tutors within the classroom setting and potential future teachers. Emphasis is placed on developing strong communication, instructional and leadership skills to support peers in their mathematical learning.

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MATH 400 • Statistics and Data Science

The ability to work with data — to process it, extract value from it, visualize it and communicate about it — is an important skill in today’s world. In this course, students will learn to summarize, analyze, discuss and create visualizations of both categorical and quantitative data using programs like CODAP and Excel/Sheets.

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MATH 450 • ADV Differential Calculus

This course will cover single-variable differential calculus. Students will develop understanding and skills associated with limits and continuity, as well as techniques and applications of differentiation.

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MATH 450 • ADV Integral Calculus

The ADV Integral Calculus course is designed to build upon the foundations of single-variable differential calculus and provide students with the opportunity to build an in-depth understanding of integral calculus. Students will develop a strong foundation in the concepts of integration, focusing on Riemann sums, definite and indefinite integrals and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Students will explore advanced topics such as improper integrals, numerical methods of integration and sequences and series, enabling them to tackle more complex mathematical challenges. Technology will enhance the curriculum and will be used on a regular basis to reinforce skills and concepts.

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MATH 450 • ADV Mathematical Modeling

This advanced course is designed for highly motivated students who are interested in creatively applying mathematics to complex, challenging and authentic real-world problems. Students will work collaboratively through the mathematical modeling process to study globally relevant, multi-faceted phenomena.

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MATH 450 • ADV Special Topics in Mathematics

This Advanced math course is designed for highly motivated students who are curious to learn more about math topics outside of the traditional high school math curriculum. The course will have a unique area of focus each semester that it is offered. For instance, the course could focus on number theory or combinatorics and probability or topology or non-Euclidean geometries — or any branch of mathematics — depending on the semester it is offered. Students in this course should be ready to carry out mathematical investigations, read and write sophisticated proofs, and solve a variety of challenging, non-routine problems.

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MATH 500 • ADV Multivariable Calculus 1

The ADV Multivariable Calculus 1 course is designed to build upon the foundations of single-variable calculus taught in ADV Differential Calculus and ADV Integral Calculus and provide students with the opportunity to build an in-depth understanding of multivariable calculus. 

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