Mathematics
Philosophy
Mathematics education is key to ensuring students are academically prepared and confident to pursue higher education or specialized career training. To be college and career-ready, today's students require an education that goes far beyond what was needed by students in the past. Therefore, our math program, as aligned to the state standards, is characterized by the following:
- Conceptual development: engaging in making sense of mathematics, exploring math concepts and relationships, and communicating understanding of mathematics
- Computational fluency: using algorithms and math processes efficiently, accurately, and precisely.
- Applications and problem solving: using math to describe real-world situations, solve problems, reason, and justify their solutions.
- Growth Mindset: fostering each student’s belief that they can learn mathematics, and growing students' habits of effort, persistence, determination, and learning from both successes and failures.
In order for this to occur, rigorous mathematical content must be organized, taught, and assessed in a problem-solving environment in which students are expected to make sense of and persevere in solving compelling and complex problems. Students' mathematical knowledge must be connected to the ideas and skills found in other grade levels and content areas, as well as to real-life situations outside the classroom.
High School Math Recommendations from Selective Universities
Calculator Recommendations
Scientific calculators are required for middle school and high school math courses through CC Geometry. Graphing calculators are required for CC Algebra 2 and above. See specific calculator recommendations here. If you are unable to purchase a graphing calculator, inquire at your high school about TI Nspires you can borrow for the school year.
In This Section
Questions?
Secondary Mathematics Specialist (6-12)
Lena Jones
425-837-7119
jonesl@issaquah.wednet.edu
- HS Math Course Guides
- HS Math Standards
- HS Mathematics Curriculum
- Graduation Requirement for Mathematics
- Smarter Balanced Assessments
- Math in your High School and Beyond Plan
- HS Math Frequently Asked Questions
HS Math Course Guides
HS Math Standards
High School Math Standards (grouped by domain)*
*the high school standards are taught over a three-year course sequence that includes CC Algebra 1, CC Geometry, and CC Algebra 2.
Standards for Mathematics Practice
The Standards for Mathematical Practice describe varieties of expertise that mathematics educators at all levels should seek to develop in their students. These practices rest on important "processes and proficiencies" with longstanding importance in mathematics education. The first of these are the NCTM process standards of problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, representation, and connections. The second are the strands of mathematical proficiency specified in the National Research Council's report Adding It Up: adaptive reasoning, strategic competence, conceptual understanding (comprehension of mathematical concepts, operations and relations), procedural fluency (skill in carrying out procedures flexibly, accurately, efficiently and appropriately), and productive disposition (habitual inclination to see mathematics as sensible, useful, and worthwhile, coupled with a belief in diligence and one's own efficacy).
- Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.
- Reason abstractly and quantitatively.
- Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.
- Model with mathematics.
- Use appropriate tools strategically.
- Attend to precision.
- Look for and make use of structure.
- Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.
View read a detailed description of each of the Math Practices.
HS Mathematics Curriculum
Course |
Curriculum |
|
|---|---|---|
|
CC (Common Core) Algebra 1 |
enVision Algebra 1 Common Core Pearson Education, Inc., 2018 |
|
|
Algebra 2 |
enVision Algebra 2 Common Core Pearson Education, Inc., 2018 |
|
| Intensified Algebra |
Intensified Algebra by Agile Mind |
|
|
CC (Common Core) Geometry |
enVision Geometry Common Core Pearson Education, Inc., 2018 |
|
|
Advanced Algebra & Trigonometry |
Algebra & Trigonometry, Brooks/Cole Cengage, 2007 |
|
|
Pre-Calculus |
Glencoe Pre-Calculus, McGraw Hill, 2014 |
|
|
Calculus/ AP Calculus |
Calculus, Brooks/Cole Cengage, 2010 |
|
|
IB (International Baccalaureate) Mathematics |
Mathematics for the IB Students HL, Haese & Harris, 2012 |
|
|
Financial Algebra |
Financial Algebra, South-Western Cengage, 2011 |
|
|
Statistics |
The Practice of Statistics, WH Freeman, 2008 |
|
|
AP (Advanced Placement) Statistics |
Introduction to Statistics and Data Analysis, Cengage, 2005 |
Graduation Requirement for Mathematics
- All public high school students are required to meet statewide graduation requirements to earn a diploma. Specific graduation requirements exist for mathematics. The Office of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) has a mathematics graduation requirements website that informs families, students, and educators about those requirements.
- All students are required to complete three years of high school math; including Algebra 1, Geometry, and a third high school math credit supportive of their High School and Beyond Plan.
- Other graduation requirements are outlined in each high school's course guide. (See links in Course Guides tab above.)
Smarter Balanced Assessments
General Information
Smarter Balanced is a state-led consortium developing assessments aligned to the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics that are designed to help prepare all students to graduate high school college- and career-ready. Students will take Smarter Balanced assessments in Grades 3-8 and 11. Visit the Smarter Balanced website here to learn more.
Sample Items
Try out some Mathematics Samples Items
Practice Test
Experience the interactive technology of Smarter Balanced computer-based assessments here.
Smarter Balanced Math Tools
See some of the electronic tools students will use on the Smarter Balanced math assessments.
Math in your High School and Beyond Plan
When choosing a series of math courses over the 4 years of high school, consider the following:
- Where should I start math in High School?
- What math will help me achieve my goals?
- How fast do I want to go through math?
- How much help will I need to be successful in math?
Students must complete math courses in the sequence describe here and in our course guides. Please use the following expandable windows below to learn more about our High School Math choices, including the What if I want to change my math plan? to learn about options for accelerating or decelerating your math pathway. To see the comprehensive set of course offerings, please see the Course Guide for your student's school. Don't forget your current math teacher is a valuable resource, providing a recommendation on what math class might best meet your needs and support your goals.
High School Math
- What class do I start with in 9th grade?
- First Steps: Graduation Requirements
- Next: Choices after you finish required math classes
- How do I get help when I encounter difficulties in math?
- What if I want to change my math plan?
What class do I start with in 9th grade?
As you select your math course for 9th grade consider the following questions:
Am I keeping up with the pace of learning in my current math class?
Do you feel your current math class goes too fast? to slow? As you continue in math courses, the math ideas become more complex and difficult, and the pace tends to become a little faster. There are options in high school to move faster or slower through math.
Am I becoming independent with OR holding onto my math skills?
Everyone needs a little refresher of math ideas in their next class. The question is whether you are understanding the math you are learning. How you do on assessments or how independent you become on math work by the end of a unit is a really good sign of how well you hold onto your math skills. There are options in high school to get more review or more help with math classes.
What grade am I earning in my current math class or on current math tests?
If you are not sure about the questions above, consider the grades you are earning now. A's and B's tend to indicate that you are keeping up with the pace and becoming independent in your math skills. D's and F's tend to indicate that you may need more support or want to slow down the pace of learning when possible. If you are receiving a C, take a look at your math tests. Since high school presents quite a challenge, if you are getting C's in middle school math, consider accessing more math supports or take the sequence of math courses that give you more time to learn and practice math skills and ideas.
Where to start?
The table below provides ideas of where to start your high school math career.
| In 8th grade ... | I want more support and time to learn... | I want to go faster and want more challenge in math... |
|---|---|---|
| I am struggling with Math 3 |
In this order consider these options... Bridge to Algebra will allow you to relearn many middle school math ideas. After this class you would take an Algebra class the next year. Intensified Algebra will review more math ideas, and provide a slower pace of instruction and maximize teacher support Algebra 1 + Algebra 1 Lab will allow you to get review and support from a support teacher, while you complete algebra at the standard pace |
If math 3 is currently a struggle, it is recommended that you choose from the choices on the left. |
| I am doing well in Math 3 |
Algebra 1 with a Lab or Intensified Algebra 1 Consider Algebra 1 with a Lab: If you tend to seek extra help from your current teacher, it may help in the transition to take the Algebra 1 lab along with Algebra 1. Consider Intensified Algebra 1. if you are looking for more review of math ideas, and a slower pace of instruction with maximum teacher support, this class may serve you well. |
Algebra 1 |
| CC8 / Algebra 1 |
Geometry: This course covers core geometry ideas. This course is part of a 3-year series that leads to pre-calculus, though there are other options along the way. The 3-year series includes Geometry >> Algebra 2 >> Bridge to Pre-Calculus. If you start with geometry you will need to continue on this series or take other math electives, or do some extra learning to jump into the advanced math series later. Consider Geometry Lab: If you received a C or below in CC8/Algebra 1, it is recommended that you either register for Geometry Lab along with Geometry OR Algebra 1: you may want to consider retaking Algebra 1 in high school if you did not learn Algebra well in middle school. Strong understanding of Algebra 1 is CRITICAL for students who plan on taking Algebra 2 later in high school. It is worth the time to learn it well! |
Advanced Geometry: This course covers geometry and trigonometry ideas in greater complexity. It draws on strong Algebra skills. This course is part of a 2-year series that prepares students for Pre-Calculus. The series includes: Advanced Geometry >> Advanced Algebra |
| Geometry |
Algebra 2: Algebra 2 builds on both Algebra 1 and Geometry. If you received a B or below in either Algebra 1 or Geometry, consider taking Algebra 2. Or if you want to slow down the pace of math, you can take Algebra 2, then Bridge to Pre-Calculus; then you will be ready for Pre-Calculus. |
Advanced Algebra 2: If you received a B+ or better in middle school Geometry, you should be ready for Advanced Algebra 2. This class is fast-paced and engages in complex Algebra and Trigonometry to prepare for Pre-Calculus. |
First Steps: Graduation Requirements
All public high school students must meet statewide graduation requirements to earn a diploma. Specific graduation requirements for mathematics are described by the Office of the State Superintendent of Public Instruction's (OSPI) mathematics graduation requirements website.
To summarize graduation requirements, students must:
- Earn Algebra 1 credit. (pass Algebra 1, Applied Algebra 1 or Intensified Algebra 1)
- Earn Geometry credit. (pass Geometry or Advanced Geometry)
- Complete 3 credits of Math, including...
- if your post-high school plan includes going straight to a 4-year college, you must complete Algebra 2 or Advanced Algebra 2, and you must take a quantitative class your senior year.
- if your post-high school plan is to go to the military, straight to career, or enter a 2-year college or technical training program, you may take any qualified math course after Geometry.
The first two steps, for everyone:
Step 1: Complete Algebra 1
This is a graduation requirement. You have some options to help you complete this step:
Bridge to Algebra 1
This 1-year course is provided for students who encountered significant difficulties with Middle School math and have big gaps in their pre-algebra understanding. This course strengthens students' pre-Algebra skills from 6th-8th grade math with content such as fractions, exponents, graphing, and simple functions. IMPORTANT: Bridge to Algebra does not count toward math credits required for graduation, it is considered an elective course. After this course students must complete 3 math credits. After Bridge to Algebra 1, students proceed to one of the algebra options below.
Intensified Algebra 1
This course is a 2 period-block class designed for students needing additional support while learning Algebra. This course covers the same content as the traditional Algebra 1. Instruction is paced over 2-periods, allowing for "bite-sized" learning - smaller chunks of teaching, extra review, guided practice and teacher support.
Algebra 1 or Applied Algebra 1
This course covers the Algebra 1 standards. Students who have struggled in math previously are strongly encouraged to enroll concurrently in the Algebra 1 Lab (below). If available at your school Applied Algebra 1 covers the same content as Algebra 1 with more of a hands-on approach.
Algebra 1 Lab:
This class is taken at the same time as Algebra 1. Another teacher provides support, re-teaching and review of skills to help you succeed in Algebra 1. This course counts as an elective. It does not count toward the 3 years of math credit required for graduation.
Applied Algebra 1 (CTE)
If available at your school Applied Algebra 1 covers the same content as Algebra 1 with more of a hands-on approach and the inclusion of projects and career connections.
Step 2: Complete Geometry
This is also a graduation requirement. You have two options for completing Geometry:
Geometry
This course covers core geometry standards and reinforces some of the most important algebra 1 concepts and skills.
Advanced Geometry
This course goes into more depth and covers more topics related to geometry and preparation for pre-calculus and beyond.
Next Steps: Student Choice
Once you complete geometry, you have choices of which direction to go with math, see the scenarios below to help you think through your goals and how to plan your math courses to support your goals.
Next: Choices after you finish required math classes
Once you complete Geometry you have choices:
|
Your plans after high school ... |
Recommendations... |
|---|---|
| If you are going straight to work, entering the military, pursuing a technical certification or know that you are seeking a 2-year AA college degree... | You need to complete at least one more math class that matches you post-high school goals. You can choose from a variety of classes. If you are pursuing a 2-year AA degree, it is strongly recommended to complete Algebra 2 or Advanced Algebra 2. |
| If you are going to a 2-year college, with the plan to transfer to a 4-year college... | You need to complete Algebra 2 or Advanced Algebra 2, then select math courses that align to your areas of interest. For some, but not all, this includes continuing through Pre-Calculus or IB HL/SL either in high school or in their 2-year college. |
| If you hope to go straight from High School to a 4-year college, but are not interested in STEM degrees (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) | You need to complete Algebra 2 or Advanced Algebra 2, and you must take a quantitative class your senior year. After either Algebra 2 class you may select math courses that align to your areas of interest. For many, but not all, this includes continuing through Pre-Calculus or IB HL/SL. |
| If you hope to go straight from High School to a 4-year college and pursue a STEM degree (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) ... |
You need to complete Algebra 2 or Advanced Algebra 2, and you must take a quantitative class your senior year. Additionally, it is strongly recommended, to continue through Pre-Calculus or IB HL/SL, and when possible, take a calculus class or complete the IB HL series in High School, especially if applying to competitive college programs for STEM. Note: Students who complete Algebra 2 and no further in high school can enter 4-year colleges and work toward a STEM degree or career, likely they would need to take more math courses in college before they enter STEM programs. |
To learn more about how to create a 4-year math plan for your goals, look at the scenario below that best matches your post-high school plans.
4 Scenarios: Examples of 4-year plans
- Scenario 1: After high school, I want to go straight to the workplace or military; or I want to pursue a technical certification or a 2-year college degree.
- Scenario 2: After high school, I want to pursue an AA or 2-year college before selecting a 4-year college program.
- Scenario 3: After high school, I want to a 4-year college, and pursue a degree that is not centered on STEM..
- Scenario 4: After high school, I want to a 4-year college, and pursue a degree in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, mathematics).
Scenario 1: After high school, I want to go straight to the workplace or military; or I want to pursue a technical certification or a 2-year college degree.
Student must complete at least one more math course after Geometry. If you plan on pursuing a 2-year AA degree, it is strongly recommended you complete Algebra 2, as that will be a required course eventually. Students whose focus is on a more direct path to work may be interested in exploring math directly related to their career interests. Below are math courses and how they support different career interests.
Personal Finance
In personal finance students learn the math related to managing their money and concepts related to the business world. This course can support any career goal. It helps prepare students for the workplace, being part of a business, and making personal financial decisions such as buying a car or renting an apartment.
College Credit: Completion of this course may qualify students for college credit at various community college/technical school programs through CTE Dual Credit. For more information, see CTE Dual Credit in the course guide or CTE Dual Credit High School and College Courses on the ISD website.
AP Computer Science A
After completing geometry, students can take this computer science class to learn about computer programming. Learning computer programming supports a wide range of careers in a world where technology is integrated in almost every workplace.
College Credit: Students in this course have the option of taking the AP test. Depending on the score received on this test and individual college policies, students may earn up to 5 college credits.
Algebra 2
After completing geometry, students can continue along the traditional math courses by taking Algebra 2. This course goes much deeper into how math can make sense of, or model, the real world. Student learn about mathematical relationships and functions, using formulas and graphs, and solving more complex real-world problems
Bridge to Pre-Calculus
After completing Algebra 2, this course completes a student's preparation for Pre-Calculus. Those who might pursue 2-year programs in more technical or quantitative fields such as some areas of business may want to consider this course in high school.
Examples of 4-year plans:
| 9th Grade | 10th Grade | 11th Grade | 12th Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridge to Algebra 1 |
Algebra 1 |
Geometry |
Personal Finance GRADUATION REQUIREMENT MET |
|
Algebra 1 |
Geometry |
Personal Finance GRADUATION REQUIREMENT MET |
Student choice! including... Not taking math AP Statistics Bridge to Pre-Calculus |
|
Algebra 1 |
Advanced Geometry |
Advanced Algebra 2 GRADUATION REQUIREMENT MET |
Student choice! including... Not taking math Any of the choice courses listed above Pre-Calculus |
Scenario 2: After high school, I want to pursue an AA or 2-year college before selecting a 4-year college program.
Students interested in a 2-year college program as on on-ramp to a 4-year degree will usually benefit from 4 years of math that align to their areas of interest. Check with the 2-year program of interest, most allow you to complete Algebra 2 and above after high school. To enter most 4-year colleges, you need to complete Algebra 2 or above.
For example...
| Students interested in degrees in the arts... |
|
| Students interested in degrees in social sciences, or social services, ... |
|
| Students interested in degrees in areas of finance, business, or marketing... |
|
| Students interested in more science and technology-oriented careers... |
|
After Geometry...
Step 3: Recommend Algebra 2
You now have two options for completing Algebra 2:
- Algebra 2: After completing geometry, students can continue along the traditional math courses by taking Algebra 2. This course goes much deeper into how math can make sense of, or model, the real world. Student learn about mathematical relationships and functions, using formulas and graphs, and solving more complex real-world problems.
- Advanced Algebra 2: This course covers the content in Algebra 2 and the remaining math content, such as Trigonometry concepts, that are required for Pre-Calculus.
Step 4: Choice
If you finish Algebra 2 by the end of 11th grade, it is recommended that students complete at least one more math course. You now have the choice to select a math class based on their college and career interests. Below are courses with some ideas of how they support different career interests. The courses listed below at provide dual credit toward 2-year degree programs.
Student must complete at least one more math course after Geometry. Students whose focus is on a more direct path to work may be interested in exploring math directly related to their career interests. Below are math courses and how they support different career interests.
Personal Finance
In personal finance students learn the math related to managing their money and concepts related to the business world. This course can support any career goal. It helps prepare students for the workplace, being part of a business, and making personal financial decisions such as buying a car or renting an apartment.
College Credit: Completion of this course may qualify students for college credit at various community college/technical school programs through CTE Dual Credit. For more information, see CTE Dual Credit in the course guide or CTE Dual Credit High School and College Courses on the ISD website.
AP Computer Science A
After completing geometry, students can take this computer science class to learn about computer programming. Learning computer programming supports a wide range of careers in a world where technology is integrated in almost every workplace.
College Credit: Students in this course have the option of taking the AP test. Depending on the score received on this test and individual college policies, students may earn up to 5 college credits.
AP Statistics
After completing Algebra 2, students can choose to take AP Statistics. Statistics is the study of data and it's uses in society. This is a math class that draws on strong understanding of functions as learned in Algebra 2.
College Credit: Students in this course have the option of taking the AP test. Depending on the score received on this test and individual college policies, students may earn up to 5 college credits.
Bridge to Pre-Calculus
After completing Algebra 2, this course completes a student's preparation for Pre-Calculus. Those who might pursue 2-year programs in more technical or quantitative fields such as some areas of business may want to consider this course in high school.
Sample 4-year plans: (this does not include all possible 4-year plans, just some of the more common plans that support the 2-year college bridge to a 4-year college option)
| 9th Grade | 10th Grade | 11th Grade | 12th Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridge to Algebra |
Algebra 1 |
Geometry |
Algebra 2 |
|
Algebra 1 |
Geometry |
Algebra 2 |
Student choice Bridge to Pre-Calculus Personal Finance AP Statistics AP Computer Science A |
| Algebra 1 (+ choice of Algebra 1 Lab) OR Intensified Algebra |
Advanced Geometry |
Advanced Algebra 2 |
Bridge to Pre-Calculus |
Scenario 3: After high school, I want to a 4-year college, and pursue a degree that is not centered on STEM..
Students interested in a 4-year college programs should at a minimum complete Algebra 2, and must complete a quantitative math or science course their senior year. Check with the colleges of interest to see their entry requirements and recommendations. Completing Bridge to Pre-Calculus, Pre-Calculus, or a Calculus class can assist in gaining entry to more competitive programs, but is not required by all colleges.
For example...
| Students interested in degrees in the arts... |
|
| Students interested in degrees in social sciences, or social services, ... |
|
| Students interested in degrees in areas of finance, business, or marketing... |
|
After Geometry...
Step 3: Complete Algebra 2
You now have two options for completing Algebra 2:
- Algebra 2: After completing geometry, students can continue along the traditional math courses by taking Algebra 2. This course goes much deeper into how math can make sense of, or model, the real world. Student learn about mathematical relationships and functions, using formulas and graphs, and solving more complex real-world problems.
- Advanced Algebra 2: This course covers the content in Algebra 2 and the remaining math content, such as Trigonometry concepts, that are required for Pre-Calculus.
Step 4: Choice
If you finish Algebra 2 by the end of 11th grade, it is recommended that students complete at least one more math course. You now have the choice to select a math class based on their college and career interests. Below are courses with some ideas of how they support different career interests. The courses listed below at provide dual credit toward 2-year degree programs.
Student must complete at least one more math course after Geometry. Students whose focus is on a more direct path to work may be interested in exploring math directly related to their career interests. Below are math courses and how they support different career interests.
Personal Finance
In personal finance students learn the math related to managing their money and concepts related to the business world. This course can support any career goal. It helps prepare students for the workplace, being part of a business, and making personal financial decisions such as buying a car or renting an apartment.
College Credit: Completion of this course may qualify students for college credit at various community college/technical school programs through CTE Dual Credit. For more information, see CTE Dual Credit in the course guide or CTE Dual Credit High School and College Courses on the ISD website.
AP Computer Science A
After completing geometry, students can take this computer science class to learn about computer programming. Learning computer programming supports a wide range of careers in a world where technology is integrated in almost every workplace.
College Credit: Students in this course have the option of taking the AP test. Depending on the score received on this test and individual college policies, students may earn up to 5 college credits.
AP Statistics
After completing Algebra 2, students can choose to take AP Statistics. Statistics is the study of data and it's uses in society. This is a math class that draws on strong understanding of functions as learned in Algebra 2.
College Credit: Students in this course have the option of taking the AP test. Depending on the score received on this test and individual college policies, students may earn up to 5 college credits.
Bridge to Pre-Calculus
After completing Algebra 2, this course completes a student's preparation for Pre-Calculus. Those who might pursue 2-year programs in more technical or quantitative fields such as some areas of business may want to consider this course in high school.
Sample 4-year plans: (this does not include all possible 4-year plans, just some of the more common plans that support students who want to go straight to a 4-year college and don't intend to pursue STEM fields - if you think you might want to pursue science, math, engineering or technology degrees, be sure to read scenario 4 below)
| 9th Grade | 10th Grade | 11th Grade | 12th Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bridge to Algebra |
Algebra 1 |
Geometry |
Algebra 2 |
|
Algebra 1 |
Geometry |
Algebra 2 |
Student choice Bridge to Pre-Calculus Personal Finance AP Statistics AP Computer Science A |
| Algebra 1 (+ choice of Algebra 1 Lab) OR Intensified Algebra |
Advanced Geometry |
Advanced Algebra 2 |
Bridge to Pre-Calculus |
If you completed Algebra 1 or Geometry in middle school:
The most common pathway for students is to continue toward and through Calculus, though depending on student interest, you may choose to a math elective in addition or in place of Calculus. Please see your school course guide for more information on options.
Scenario 4: After high school, I want to a 4-year college, and pursue a degree in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, mathematics).
Students interested in a college degrees in STEM fields are likely to be required to take Calculus in high school or college. Depending on where you start in high school math, there is a path to a STEM degree.
After Geometry...
Step 3: From Geometry to Pre-Calculus
You now have two options to go from Geometry to Precalculus:
- 2- year Option:
- Algebra 2: After completing geometry, students can continue along the traditional math courses by taking Algebra 2. This course goes much deeper into how math can make sense of, or model, the real world. Student learn about mathematical relationships and functions, using formulas and graphs, and solving more complex real-world problems. THEN
- Bridge to Pre-Calculus: This course reinforces and deepens Algebra 2 knowledge and covers the remaining math content, such as Trigonometry concepts, that are required for Pre-Calculus.
- 1- year Option:
- Advanced Algebra 2: This course covers the content in Algebra 2 and the remaining math content, such as Trigonometry concepts, that are required for Pre-Calculus.
Step 4: Pre-Calculus: entering the Calculus Series (or IB series at Skyline)
The next stage of math is likely completed in High School and/or College. Students complete Pre-Calculus then start the calculus series. Please see your high school course guide for the options available at your school. All courses at this level are available for college credit.
Overview of this Math Sequence:
Phase 1:
Bridge to Algebra (optional) >> Algebra 1
Phase 2:
Geometry >> Algebra 2 >> Bridge to Pre-Calculus
OR
Advanced Geometry (starting fall 2025) >> Advanced Algebra 2
Phase 3:
Pre-Calculus >> Calculus Series
OR
IB Math Series
How do I get help when I encounter difficulties in math?
Step 1: Talk to your counselor and math teacher!
The first step when you are finding math difficult or overwhelming is to talk with your current math teacher and school counselor. They can discuss options available to you at your school to get help with math or for when you get to high school.
Math classes designed to help students who are finding math a challenge.
There are carefully placed math classes available to help students along the way.
Bridge to Algebra
This course was designed for 9th grade students who have major gaps in their middle school math skills and knowledge, and want to take a year to catch up. It doesn't count toward math graduation requirements, but gives students the opportunity to set themselves up for future success by focusing on those gaps for a year.
Intensified Algebra 1
This course takes a different approach to algebra, and the daily lesson is delivered at a slower pace with more help and structure. As a result, the class takes two periods. Students who complete this class earn Algebra credit, learning the same math ideas as the standard Algebra 1 class.
Lab Classes
Students taking the standard Algebra 1, Geometry, or Algebra 2 class can take a Lab Class at the same time. In the lab class another teacher provides help with homework, extra practice to build confidence in math skills, and review of math students might have forgotten.
Use online learning to reinforce learning
If you complete a math course and are not satisfied with how well you learned the math content, but don't want to stop your progress, you can retake one or both semesters of the math course online through the ISD online-learning program.
2 options for getting to Pre-Calculus
For students who want to get to Pre-Calculus in high school or college, a common requirement for college-degrees, ISD offers two options: a 2-year option or a 3-year option after completing Algebra 1:
3-year option:
- Year 1: Geometry
- Year 2: Algebra 2
- Year 3: Bridge to Pre-Calculus
Next stop: Pre-Calculus
2-year option:
- Year 1: Advanced Geometry
- Year 2: Advanced Algebra 2
Next stop: Pre-Calculus
What if I want to change my math plan?
Changing your math plan is possible. You will want to work with your school counselor to map our the best way to change your plan, every student is unique. Here are some Q&A's about changing math plans:
I want to accelerate my math learning by taking two math courses at the same time, what is the best way to do that?
Most of our math courses build on themselves so this can be very hard to do. Math classes must be taken in sequence. The best teacher recommendation we have is to use online Geometry to stagger between Algebra 1 and Algebra 2. This is only available starting in 8th grade. For example:
Year 1: Take Algebra 1 at school, then in the spring take Geometry A online
Year 2: Take Algebra 2 at school, and in the summer or fall take Geometry B online
Please see your school counselor for other options for taking Geometry online.
What if I take Advanced Geometry or Advanced Algebra 2 and it is too much?
Changing courses mid-year may be possible or may not be possible. Talk with your school counselor to find out if it would work for you. There are options the next year that would reinforce learning and still help you achieve your long-term goals, such as the following:
- From Advanced Geometry go to Algebra 2
- From Advanced Algebra 2 go to Bridge to Pre-Calculus
What if I decide to take Geometry, but later decide I want to go to Advanced Algebra 2?
This option is not ideal, as students would have not yet experienced the pace and rigor of advanced math classes. Students want to prepare for more rigorous learning expectations and pace of instruction. One option to prepare for the course would be to take the Algebra 2A online as a math elective to pre-learn some of the early content of Advanced Algebra 2.
What if I take Algebra 2, but later decide I want to go straight into Pre-Calculus next?
If you decide you want to go from Algebra 2 to Pre-Calculus, you would be missing a large amount of math skills to be ready. Students wanting to go straight to Pre-Calculus should take the Honors Algebra 2 B online in the Summer prior to Pre-Calculus (students may want to start with Honors Algebra 2A in the spring for extra reinforcement).
HS Math Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bridge to Pre-Calculus?
Bridge to Pre-Calculus is a course designed for students who take Algebra 2 and want to continue to Pre-Calculus. It is also good for students who take Advanced Algebra 2 and didn't achieve a level of proficiency that makes them confident and ready for Pre-Calculus. This course increases student's likelihood of success in Pre-Calculus and beyond by reinforcing and extending learning in advanced algebra and trigonometry skills.
Follow-up: Is Bridge to Pre-Calculus the same as Bridge to College? Answer: NO
Bridge to Pre-Calculus uses an Advanced Algebra and Trigonometry textbook and standards. Colleges identify courses by a State Course Code. The state course code for Bridge to Pre-Calculus is the same as Advanced Algebra and Trigonometry or what some districts call Math Analysis.