Mathematics at NCHS
Welcome!
The goal of the New Canaan High School mathematics department is that all students will persist when faced with challenging content, approach problems from different perspectives, explain solutions accurately and coherently, and develop a curiosity about the nature of mathematics while learning how to:
Analyze patterns and functions using a variety of strategies, tools, and technologies.
Express quantitative relationships in multiple ways in order to make connections and
simplify calculations.
Analyze, visualize, measure, and transform shapes and structures.
Analyze data to make informed decisions.
Mathematics Course Sequence
The New Canaan High School Math Department follows a subject based sequence of math courses. The sequence begins with Algebra 1. A student may enroll in Algebra 1 as early as grade 7 or well into high school.
The table below shows potential course sequences a student might follow, depending on when they begin the sequence of math courses.
It is important to note that level of rigor not only increases as a student moves up a level, but also as they advance through the math program. For example, College Prep Precalculus is more rigorous than College Prep Algebra 2 due to the increased complexity of concepts in advanced math courses
Students may enroll in Geometry and Algebra 2 simultaneously. Likewise, students may enroll in Statistics or AP/ECE UCONN Statistics with another math course as long as the prerequisite coursework is fulfilled. Students should speak with their teacher and counselor if interested.
New Canaan High School offers a robust and challenging math program, which prepares students for success in subsequent courses at NCHS and in post-secondary math course work. While we believe that students receive the best education while taking courses in New Canaan High School, taught by New Canaan High School faculty, we understand that there are circumstances in which students seek to take math courses independent of NCHS. Independent math course work may serve as an option for students who have at least completed one full year of course work at NCHS. Geometry and Precalculus are the only two courses that can be taken independently. Students should be expected to demonstrate appropriate level of rigor, based on their desired subsequent course. (For example, students looking to enter Calculus Honors should expect to show proficiency in Honors level Precalculus). Students wishing to seek independent coursework should complete this form to initiate the process.
Understanding Mathematics Courses
New Canaan High School offers multiple levels of course subjects. Students are recommended for the level that will provide them with a degree of challenge but the ability to master course concepts. Recommendations are made each year and students may move between levels from year to year.
High Honors Level (previously called M4)
The pace and level of questioning is extremely rigorous in the high honors courses. Compared to other levels, work is more abstract, conceptual and complex. The high honors level is designed to prepare students for AP Calculus BC coursework.
Honors Level (previously called M3)
The honors level courses are designed for students who can acquire knowledge at an accelerated pace, solve problems requiring an advanced skill set, and can comprehend abstract mathematical concepts. The honors level curriculum prepares students for either Honors Calculus or AP Calculus AB coursework.
College Prep Level (previously called M2)
The curriculum at the college prep level reinforces skill-based fluency, applications to real-world contexts, and conceptual ideas about math content; with emphasis on the applications and mathematical fluency.
General Level (previously called M1)
This level is designed for students who need reinforcement of mathematical concepts and skill repetition. This level focuses on key concepts.