Why did RPHS change their math offerings?
Every 7 years IB curriculum is revised by teams of educators & professionals from the content area. The team looks to ensure that the content is globally relevant, rigorous and in line with what students need to know going into college and/or a career. One of the IB math classes we offered was called Math Studies and it was taught in a single school year. The Math Studies course is no longer offered by IB and there are no IB math offerings that can be taught in one year. The new changes meant that unless a student completed Algebra 1 as an 8th grader they would be ineligible for an IB Diploma (there wouldn't be enough time in highschool to complete Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Math SL year 1, Math SL year 2). When our math teachers examined the new course requirements and cross-walked them with the existing classes it became clear that the key Algebra 2 content was included in the new math classes.
What are the benefits of eliminating Algebra 2 as a class and adding these new IB classes?
We are an IB for all school and now ALL students now have an opportunity to complete the necessary math class if they want to earn an IB Diploma
All students have an opportunity to earn college credit for their math course
We can offer 251/252 to our advanced students which we've not previously been able to offer
What are the new IB Math classes called?
IB Math Applications and Interpretations (AI) & IB Math Analysis and Approaches (AA)
So are we still teaching Algebra 2 content?
About 80% of the Algebra 2 topics are taught in AI or in AA. The topics that are no longer included are somewhat obsolete due to advancements in technology and society. Because AI and AA included most of the Algebra 2 topics it was not necessary to have a stand alone Algebra 2 course and then repeat the material the following year in an IB Mathematics course.
How are students determining which class to take?
Just as in previous years students select their next math course by reading course descriptions in the course catalog, talking with their math teachers, and considering which math courses line up best with their career goals. This year teachers have included a math self-assessment that may help a student select which of the IB math classes is the best fit.
What content is taught in each of the IB Math classes?
You can find a comprehensive list of specific topics taught in each course including how they overlap with each other and with Algebra 2 topics in the IB Math Course Content Page.
I’m in advanced math already. Will there be a math class for me when I’m a senior?
Yes. Students who are in advanced math classes as 8th graders and/or freshmen will have an opportunity to take the IB math course they didn’t already take or they can take Math 251 / 252 on our campus.
How does Math:AI compare to Math: AA?
Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation
Emphasis on modelling and statistics
Develops strong skills in applying mathematics to the real-world
Real mathematical problem solving using technology
For students interested in social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, statistics, business, some economics, psychology and design
2 year course
College credit opportunities
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
Emphasis on algebraic methods
Develop strong skills in mathematical thinking
Real and abstract mathematical problem solving
For students interested in mathematics, engineering, physical sciences, programming, and some economics
2 year course
College credit opportunities