Algebra I
Our entire Algebra I curriculum is online, with over 150 dynamic, randomly-generated web exercises
and worksheets for unlimited practice and quizzes. Go to the Algebra I Homepage.
Geometry
Over 20 dynamic, randomly-generated web exercises and worksheets cover a wide range of basic
Geometry concepts.
Many include Geometer's Sketchpad links for hands-on exploration. Go to the Geometry Homepage.
Algebra II
Algebra II is currently in development.
We have sections on Recursion and Sequences, Probability, Statistics, Systems of Equations,
Geometric Transformations, and more,
all with dynamic, randomly-generated web exercises and worksheets. Go to the Algebra II Homepage.
NOTE: Many links on this page take you to documents that use lots of mathematics.
The original documents were typeset using TeX (the technical
typesetting language used by the mathematical community), and I created
"snapshots" of each page. To view and print these "snapshots," you'll need
the ability to work with portable document format (pdf) file types:
Adobe Acrobat Reader is free and available for download at
MISSION STATEMENT
The Miss Hall's School mathematics program prepares each girl for success
in college-level math and provides access to a technology-driven world.
CORE VALUES Empowerment means that girls have the confidence to move from the known to the unknown.
Curiosity goes beyond the basics. Lots of why and what if questions model a spirit of inquiry. Self-reliance means girls become independent learners.
They learn to rely on their inner strength and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment.
Sharing is one thinker interacting with another.
Stimulating conversation is at the core of mathematical communication.
Proficiency at each level of study assures that girls have the tools to solve a multitude of real-world problems.
Each girl at Miss Hall's School is empowered with a deep understanding of
mathematical concepts.
At Miss Hall's, we not only teach girls mathematics, we teach girls
how to teach themselves mathematics.
Material is presented in algebraic, numeric, and graphical forms.
Mathematical literacy is developed through reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
A variety of problem-solving strategies is practiced for use in mathematics and beyond.
Group exploration and activities promote excitement and enthusiasm.
The math program is designed to prepare each girl for success in college-level
mathematics and a technology-laden world. To ensure a depth of understanding
and to appeal to different learning styles, material is presented algebraically,
graphically, numerically and verbally. Skills using both the graphing calculator
and computer are steadily developed, along with an understanding of the appropriate
use of this technology.
We strive to develop a girl's technical literacy skills, including reading,
writing, speaking, and listening to mathematics. Not only are girls learning
mathematics, but they are learning how to teach themselves mathematics. This,
coupled with continual practice with problem-solving strategies, empowers girls
to solve even those future problems of which we cannot conceive in the present day.
TI-83 CALCULATOR REQUIREMENT
The Texas Instruments Graphing Calculator TI-83 (or TI-83 Plus, or TI-84) is required
for all math students at Miss Hall's School. The cost is generally in the range of
$90–$100. By requiring that each girl have the same calculator, we can
efficiently incorporate calculator instruction into our classes. Also, many
lessons are designed to be used specifically with these calculators; no
other calculators will fit the parameters of many assignments. Please be sure
to purchase a TI-83 (or TI-83 Plus, or TI-84) prior to your daughter's arrival at school.
Many thanks from the Mathematics Department!
In the event that your daughter's calculator gets lost or misplaced, we want
to be able to identify her as the owner! For this reason, the following "IDENTification"
program is required to be on each girl's calculator at MHS.
Click here for instructions on creating the IDENT program!
Algebra involves the representation and manipulation of mathematical information using variables.
One theme of Algebra I is the development of tools needed to work with a wide
variety of mathematical expressions. To this end, we explore functions, sets,
number line concepts, order of operations, percents, ratios, radicals, properties
of exponents, scientific notation, rational expressions, and factoring.
A second theme is the introduction of basic tools for solving equations and inequalities.
Central to this task is the study of the addition and multiplication properties of equality.
Finally, girls must develop the wisdom to differentiate between renaming
expressions and solving equations. A thorough study of lines helps to illustrate
the interconnections among the themes. Algebra I is a prerequisite for further study in mathematics.
There are several ideas that intertwine in geometry: the study of properties
of geometric figures (such as lines, triangles, quadrilaterals and circles);
the maturation of inductive and deductive logical skills; the development of
area and volume concepts; the exploration of the beautiful interaction between
geometry and algebra. The Geometer's Sketchpad is used to give girls extensive
hands-on experience with the mathematical concepts and to encourage experimentation.
An honors section more deeply explores the rigors of mathematical proof.
Algebra II develops the tools introduced in the previous algebra course, while introducing
many more concepts and exploring real-life applications. Topics include recursion, probability and statistics,
systems, matrices, polynomials, rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, graphical transformations,
periodic functions, and parametric equations. One central issue is the relationship between the algebraic and the graphical
representations of information; the graphing calculator is used extensively
in exploring this interplay. An honors section encourages more creative, critical
and in-depth study of these topics.
In Precalculus, the set of skills needed for success in calculus is completed.
Girls become fluent in the language of functions and many function applications are
explored. A large component of the course explores trigonometry, interweaving the
unit circle and right triangle viewpoints. A study of vectors, polar coordinates,
parametric equations and partial fractions completes the preparation for more advanced mathematics.
Completion of Algebra II and permission from the mathematics department are prerequisites
for enrollment. An honors section encourages more creative, critical and in-depth study of these topics.
The ideas of limits, continuity, derivatives and integrals are explored at a depth
of understanding consistent with college-level study. Broad concepts and widely
applicable methods are emphasized, rather than memorization of particular problem types.
The graphing calculator is used as an aide in understanding, estimating and confirming results.
AP Calculus proceeds at a faster pace than Honors Calculus, since each girl is
required to sit for the AP exam in early May. To complete this exam at a level
sufficient to earn college credit or placement, girls must demonstrate a thorough
understanding of the material by solving a wide variety of unfamiliar, challenging problems.
Precalculus and permission from the mathematics department are prerequisites for enrollment.
Discrete Mathematics is an elective course for students who have completed
Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II, and who wish to continue the study of
mathematics with an alternative course to Precalculus.
Students explore the mathematics underlying world experiences as varied as
the patterns in a sunflower head, the probability of winning the lottery,
voting schemes, and internet security systems. In doing so, they are provided
a broad overview of mathematics, with an emphasis on group discussions and critical thinking.
If you have Geometer's Sketchpad
(hands-on geometry at its best!) then you should
be able to explore the following concepts. The following links access ".gsp" (Geometer's
SketchPad) files, so clicking these links will probably just give you garbage.
Instead, SAVE the file to your personal harddisk, being sure
to use the extension ".gsp" (NOT ".htm"), and then access the file from there. (If this
doesn't work using Netscape Navigator, try using Internet Explorer.)
Here are a variety of miscellaneous activities, worksheets, forms, and more!
Choosing Your Number!!
If each member of a class is asked to choose a number from a specified range, how
likely is it that two or more people will choose the same number?