FAQs for Math

Q: WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE AP AND THE IB MATHEMATICS COURSES?

A:

    • AP courses are college classes that are offered in high school. AP courses challenge students with a small number of topics that are taught in depth and with great rigor. At the end of a one year course, students sit for an exam where a score of 3, 4 or 5 will give students college credit. AP courses are widely recognized throughout the U.S.
    • Students enrolled in IB math courses are introduced to numerous mathematical topics, such as Trigonometry, Statistics, Probability, Analytics, and Calculus, which help to prepare them for upper level mathematics. IB math courses incorporate international mindedness, communication skills, and help to develop research and study skills. College credit may be offered for Standard Level and Higher Level classes with a score of 5 or better. The IB diploma also offers advantages at the University level.


More information can be found here.

Q: WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS AFTER AP CALCULUS?

A: After AP Calculus Springbrook offers 3 classes: AP Statistics, Multivariable Calculus, and IB Higher Level Mathematics (based on student demand).

Q: DO WE HAVE A MATH TEAM?

A: There is a Springbrook Math Team and we have a very high caliber of students. Every year we send students to the American Regional Mathematics League competition and we have won top awards for the Johns Hopkins University Mathematical Tournament. Students meet one or two days a week for practice.

Q: HOW CAN STUDENTS GET HELP?

A:

  • Teachers are generally available every day at lunch or after school for a short time. If students need more help, they can make an appointment.
  • For complete course descriptions see the online High School Course Bulletin:

http://coursebulletin.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/SchoolCourseCatalogs/School/04798


Q: WILL STUDENTS GET CREDIT FOR HIGH SCHOOL MATH CLASSES TAKEN IN MIDDLE SCHOOL?

A: Yes. To receive credit the students must pass each semester.

Q: CAN STUDENTS RETAKE A HIGH SCHOOL COURSE THEY TOOK DURING MIDDLE SCHOOL AND RECEIVE THE HIGHER GRADE?

A: Yes. Current and future Grade 6-8 students may retake a high school course they took during middle school and receive the higher grade. The lower grade will not be reported on their transcripts. This option represents a significant change to earlier procedures. These students should use MCPS form 560-55, Request to Retake High School Course Taken in Middle School. This form is available in each school's guidance office and on the MCPS Web site, http://www.mcps.k12.md.us/departments/forms/pdf/560-55.pdf .


Q: Do students have to pass the PARCC to graduate?

A: Yes, students graduating from high school have to pass the PARCC to graduate. Students will need to earn a score of 733 (Performance Level 3).