As Galileo notes, the language of the universe is mathematics. CBHS mathematicians learn this language
through rigorous study of the essential concepts and their authentic applications. CBHS mathematicians must
master fundamentals but often make use of technological tools to allow for more complex problem-solving
and modeling as well as more sophisticated mathematical products. Our math curriculum sequence is
designed to facilitate rich connections with our sequence of science courses. As a part of most of our math
courses, student also engage in self-paced computer-aided instruction for the purposes of skill-building,
remediation and/or acceleration. All math courses are year-long and are worth two UPs.
Geometry and Probability
Most ninth-grade students at Casco Bay High School will take this course. The standards and rigor will be
differentiated to accommodate the skills and challenges of the students. Students will study similarity through
the lens of our first expedition "Build Community" and logic and reasoning in support of our second expedition,
"Questions of Conscience". Concepts of geometry will be taught using technology, art, projects and various
forms of problem solving. For students looking for additional rigor and in-depth problem-solving
opportunities, a Math Lab will be offered during the weekly Academic Support block.
Sophomore Algebra
This course will use secondary math topics from algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and statistics to investigate
the guiding questions: "How can we compare things in the real world using data?" and "How can we
communicate these relationships in a precise and convincing way?" Students will deepen their understanding
of real-world relationships through mathematics modeling, particularly using experimental data from their
Physics course. Students will focus on recognizing patterns of change in linear, quadratic, exponential, and
trigonometric function families and apply characteristics of those families to physics concepts. Students will
learn and apply concepts from statistics, primarily linear regression, correlation, and central tendency, in
order to use data effectively in support of their arguments. Students will also practice traditional algebra
techniques of arithmetic and symbolic manipulation.
Sophomore Pre-Calculus
Sophomores with substantial skills and experience with algebra may take Pre-Calculus. With a dual focus on
application and abstract understanding, Pre-Calculus is designed to prepare students for Calculus and to set
the foundation for a career in science, technology, engineering, or math. To facilitate deeper learning, we
use a model (EL Education's Workshop 2.0) that asks students to grapple with challenging material before
receiving direct instruction. The primary topics we will investigate are: functions and function families; roots
of polynomial equations; complex numbers; trigonometry; and sequences and series. Whenever possible and
appropriate, Sophomore Pre-Calculus will connect to and extend upon learning in sophomore Physics.
Junior-Senior
Algebra
This course uses secondary math topics (Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Statistics) to investigate the
guiding questions, “How can we compare things in the real world using numbers?” and, “How can we
communicate these relationships in a precise and convincing way?” With a continued emphasis on groupwork,
investigation, project-based assessment, authentic application, and technology, students deepen their
understanding of real-world relationships through mathematical modeling. This course also includes practice
and preparation for the math section of the SAT and integrates when appropriate with junior and senior
expeditions.
The Code: A Programming Approach to Advanced Topics in Algebra
In this introductory computer science class, students learn the basics of programming from digital logic to
object oriented app development. During the course, students build a series of projects of increasing
complexity. Projects are designed to teach logic, numeracy, and algebraic thinking while simultaneously
developing coding skills. The course is taught primarily using Apple’s Swift 3 programming language and the
Xcode application. Completion of CBHS Algebra is a prerequisite.
Statistics
This introductory course in statistics will revolve around case studies such as the issue of fairness in the draft
for the Vietnam war, or using probability to prove guilt or innocence in murder trials. Topics will include
probability, probability distributions, correlation, linear regression and hypothesis testing. The goal is to
prepare students for success in rigorous college statistics programs. CBHS Algebra is a pre-requisite.
Junior-Senior Pre-Calculus
With a dual focus on application and abstract understanding, Pre-Calculus is a high-level math class designed
to prepare students for Calculus and to set the foundation for a career in science, technology, engineering, or
math. To facilitate deeper learning, we use a model (EL Education's Workshop 2.0) that asks students to
grapple with challenging material before receiving direct instruction. The primary topics we will investigate
are: functions and function families; roots of polynomial equations; complex numbers; trigonometry; and
sequences and series. This course also includes practice and preparation for the math section of the SAT and
integrates when appropriate with junior and senior expeditions.
Calculus
Casco Bay High School Calculus uses active pedagogy to explore the infinite and the infinitesimal. Students
will learn the mathematical and historical origins, as well as the practical applications of two powerful
operations: differentiation and integration. With a greater emphasis on proof, Calculus prepares students for
upper level college math coursework.