Welcome to the Morgan Mathematics Department!
At The Morgan School, our Math Department is dedicated to helping students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that will serve them both inside and outside the classroom. We offer a wide range of courses designed to challenge and inspire learners at all levels, from foundational concepts to advanced topics.
Our mission is to create an engaging and supportive environment where all students can succeed, building confidence in their abilities and a deep appreciation for the power of mathematics. We believe that every student, regardless of background or ability, can master mathematical concepts and apply them in real-world situations. Collaboration and communication are at the heart of our teaching philosophy. We encourage students to work together, share ideas, and engage in open dialogue to deepen their understanding and strengthen their problem-solving skills.
As part of the broader school community, the Math Department plays an essential role in preparing students for future academic and career opportunities, and we are committed to fostering a love for learning. Together, we work to ensure that each student’s journey is one of growth, discovery, and success.
We look forward to supporting you in your mathematical journey!
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Department Overview:
Our department is dedicated to providing students with a comprehensive, engaging, and challenging mathematics education. We offer a wide range of courses designed to meet the needs of students at all levels, from foundational math skills to advanced college-preparatory and honors courses. Whether you are looking to build a solid math foundation, tackle more advanced topics, or explore math through real-world applications, our department is committed to supporting your growth and success.
Unique Aspects of Our Department:
- Dedicated Faculty: Our passionate and experienced teachers are committed to making math accessible and enjoyable. They work closely with students to provide individualized support and ensure every student reaches their potential.
- Support Programs: We offer tutoring sessions and peer mentoring to help students who need additional assistance. Contact your math teacher for more information.
- Real-World Connections: We believe that math is not just about numbers—it’s about understanding the world around us. Our department integrates real-world applications into lessons, helping students see the relevance of mathematics in everyday life and in future careers.
- Technology Integration: We incorporate the latest technology, such as graphing calculators, math software, and interactive online tools, to enrich the learning experience and prepare students for a tech-driven world.
- Building Thinking Classrooms: We apply strategies from Peter Liljedahl’s Building Thinking Classrooms, to help encourage deep mathematical thinking and student collaboration. We emphasize the importance of fostering student engagement through challenging, inquiry-based tasks and shifting the focus from teacher-led instruction to student-driven problem-solving. We work to cultivate a classroom culture where students take ownership of their learning, develop critical thinking skills, and learn to approach problems creatively and collaboratively.
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Curriculum and Courses:
Algebra 1 (Level 1)
This foundational course introduces the basic concepts of algebra, including solving equations, understanding inequalities, working with functions, and graphing linear equations. It serves as the building block for all higher-level math courses. This course follows the Illustrative Mathematics Algebra 1 Curriculum.
Geometry (Honors and Level 1)
Geometry explores the properties and relationships of shapes and figures in two and three dimensions. Students will study angles, triangles, circles, volumes, and surface areas, as well as key concepts such as proofs, congruence, and similarity. This course follows the Illustrative Mathematics Geometry Curriculum.
Algebra 2 (Honors and Level 1)
Building on the concepts learned in Algebra 1, Algebra 2 dives deeper into polynomial functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and complex numbers. It strengthens algebraic skills needed for Pre-Calculus and beyond. This course follows the Illustrative Mathematics Algebra 2 Curriculum.
Pre-Calculus (Honors and Level 1)
Pre-Calculus bridges the gap between Algebra 2 and Calculus, covering topics such as rational functions, logarithmic and exponential functions, and trigonometry. It prepares students for the more abstract concepts of Calculus while reinforcing critical skills in algebra and geometry.
Discrete Mathematics
Discrete Mathematics is a course designed to immerse students in the world of mathematical logic and its applications in real-world scenarios. This course bridges the historical richness of mathematics with contemporary applications, providing a comprehensive understanding of discrete mathematical concepts and their practical utility, such as deductive reasoning, counting and probability, voting theory, and the mathematics of finance. Each of these areas is presented not just as abstract theory but as tools for strategic reasoning and decision-making.
ECE Probability & Statistics
ECE Probability & Statistics is a course offered through collaboration with the University of Connecticut (STAT 1100Q). Successful completion of the course results in 4 credits at the University of Connecticut. Topics include standard and nonparametric approaches to statistical analysis; exploratory data analysis, elementary probability, sampling distributions, estimation and hypothesis testing, one- and two-sample procedures, regression and correlation. Learning to do statistical analysis using statistical software is an integral part of the course.
AP Calculus
Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus is a college-level course designed for students looking to earn college credit while still in high school. The course covers both Differential and Integral Calculus, focusing on concepts like limits, derivatives, integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.
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Faculty and Staff:
Student Opportunities:
Peer Tutoring:
Need help in math or want to help others? You can request a tutor through the Guidance Department or volunteer to become a tutor and support your peers. It’s a great way to get extra help or give back by sharing your knowledge. This collaborative program fosters a strong learning community where students can reinforce their knowledge while helping others succeed.
SAT Prep
Get ready for the SAT with our after-school SAT Prep program, run by our experienced math teachers! Offered in the month before the spring SAT, this program focuses on test-taking strategies and practice to help you improve your score. It's a great opportunity to build confidence and be well-prepared for test day!
