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Changes
in Coram Deo Academy Math Curriculum
January 29, 2004
From:
Mr. William K. Rector
Director, Upper School and Math Department Chair
After careful evaluation of our entire mathematics program at Coram Deo, we are changing scope and sequence with the goal of strengthening our upper school courses – specifically Geometry.
For the past several months, we have been seeking a more formalized and classical treatment of Geometry, Advanced Algebra, Trigonometry and Calculus for our upper school grades. After careful search and recommendations from other Christian, Classical schools we are pleased to announce we will be using the University of Chicago School Math Project (UCSMP) textbooks for Geometry, Advanced Algebra and Trigonometry (http://social-sciences.uchicago.edu/ucsmp/Secondary.html) beginning in the fall of 2004. We will also introduce a new Calculus text published by Brooks/Cole. (http://www.brookscole.com/math_d/index.html)
Here is a detail of the new scope and sequence:
Grade |
Previous
Sequence |
New
Sequence (beginning Fall of 2004) |
| 8 | Saxon Algebra 1 | Saxon Algebra 1 |
| 9 | Saxon Algebra 2 | UCSMP Geometry |
| 10 | Saxon
Advanced Math (emphasizing Geometry) |
UCSMP Advanced Algebra |
| 11 | Saxon
Advanced Math (emphasizing Trigonometry) |
UCSMP
Trigonometry (Functions, Statistics and Trigonometry) |
| 12 | Saxon
Calculus (optional) |
12 Brooks/Cole
Calculus (optional) |
Because of the Geometry shifting from the 10th to the 9th grades, we will have one transition year (2004-2005) where both 9th and 10th graders will be taking Geometry.
Our decision is motivated primarily by the desire to introduce Geometry as a logic level course earlier in the student’s development. This will coordinate more closely with their formal logic training. I also feel it is important for this subject to be taught in a concentrated, one-year, format instead of being distributed through the high school curriculum (as it is designed for the upper level Saxon texts). We also believe this will yield a pragmatic benefit on standardized tests that include more specified Geometry questions.
As a final comment regarding our current K-8 curriculum, we remain confident in the grammar level instruction and comprehensive review which comes so strongly with the Saxon text series. Our desire for change is only for the upper school level mathematics.
I would be happy to discuss in detail our enthusiasm for the new scope, sequence and texts if anyone is interested.
Thank you for your attention and God bless,