Mathematics
Our Mathematics Program
The Creators Academy math program is designed to guide students from concrete mathematical knowledge to abstract reasoning and real-world application. We make use of the IM curriculum, which fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and clear communication.
Our core sequence begins with Algebra 1, building a foundation in variables, equations, functions, and statistics. Geometry follows, focusing on the study of shapes, logical reasoning, and proofs. Students use constructions and rigid transformations to explore and validate concepts like congruence, similarity, and symmetry. Algebra 2 / Trig then prepares students for higher-level mathematics, exploring advanced topics like polynomials, complex numbers, logarithms, and trigonometry. All courses emphasize modeling real-world situations and utilize graphing calculators, such as the TI-84 Plus CE.
Course Descriptions
Algebra 1 (9th Grade)
In this course, students embark on an exploration of statistical analysis, linear relationships, functions, and quadratic equations, deepening their understanding and proficiency in algebraic modeling and reasoning.Beginning with one-variable statistics, students collect and analyze data sets, fostering an understanding of quantities in context. They learn to gather, display, and interpret data, honing their collaborative and communication skills while exploring new tools and routines.
Moving forward, students expand their knowledge of linear equations, inequalities, and systems, using them to model relationships and constraints. They develop skills in writing, rearranging, and solving equations and inequalities, explaining their reasoning with precision. The exploration continues with two-variable statistics, where students analyze scatter plots, lines of best fit, and associations in categorical data.
Transitioning to the study of functions, students deepen their ability to represent, interpret, and communicate about various function types. They explore linear, exponential, quadratic, and piecewise-defined functions, analyzing their structural attributes and representations in real-world contexts.
The course culminates with a focus on quadratic equations, where students extend their modeling and problem-solving skills. They learn to write, transform, graph, and solve quadratic equations, encountering rational and irrational solutions, and deepening their understanding of the real number system.
Throughout the course, students engage in mathematical modeling, using modeling prompts to apply algebraic concepts in real-world scenarios. These prompts facilitate the full modeling cycle, providing opportunities for students to apply their skills in diverse contexts.
Geometry (10th Grade)
In this course, students delve into advanced geometric and algebraic reasoning, building upon foundational concepts from middle school mathematics.The course begins with an emphasis on conjecture and proof, as students engage in compass and straightedge constructions and gradually progress to formal proof writing. They develop a cycle of conjecture, feedback, and finalization, supported by a reference chart recording essential definitions and theorems.
Expanding on their understanding of geometric transformations, students rigorously prove triangle congruence and similarity theorems, applying these concepts to various figures such as quadrilaterals and isosceles triangles. Additionally, students explore right triangle trigonometry, laying the groundwork for future studies in periodic functions.
The exploration continues with the derivation of volume formulas and the study of dilation's effects on area and volume. Connecting algebra and geometry through coordinate geometry, students review and apply theorems and skills, using transformations and the Pythagorean Theorem to derive equations of geometric figures.
Students also delve into relationships between segments and angles in circles, as well as the concept of radian measure for angles, setting the stage for more advanced studies. The course concludes with an extension of probability concepts to consider combined events and identify independence.
Throughout the course, students engage in mathematical modeling, utilizing provided prompts to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts and participate in the full modeling cycle. These activities foster a deeper understanding of geometric and algebraic concepts and their practical applications.
Algebra 2 (11th, 12th Grade)
This course provides students with an in-depth exploration of advanced algebraic concepts while integrating mathematical modeling techniques throughout the curriculum.Beginning with a study of sequences, students revisit linear and exponential functions, representing them in various forms and addressing mathematical modeling aspects. This leads to an examination of polynomial functions, where students analyze the structure of polynomial graphs and expressions, perform arithmetic operations, and identify asymptotes and end behavior.
Expanding their understanding, students delve into rational exponents, solving equations involving square and cube roots, and introducing complex numbers. They explore exponential functions, logarithms, and continuous growth modeling, culminating in a comprehensive study of transformations applied both graphically and algebraically.
Next, students investigate periodic functions, utilizing the unit circle to comprehend trigonometric functions and their role in modeling periodic relationships. They deepen their understanding of functions' behavior and transformations, consolidating and generalizing their knowledge from previous units.
The course concludes with a focus on statistical inference, where students analyze data from experiments using normal distributions. They learn to address variability in data, estimate population parameters, and develop critical thinking skills to evaluate data summaries critically.
Throughout the course, students engage in mathematical modeling activities, using provided prompts to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts and participate in the full modeling cycle. These activities enhance their understanding of algebraic concepts and their practical applications, preparing them for advanced studies in mathematics and beyond.
