Mathematics
This is an exciting time to be teaching and learning mathematics in California. Many fulfilling jobs require students to demonstrate and apply mathematical skills. Educational leaders are recognizing how important it is improve the quality of mathematical instruction and build the skills of our students. Programs such as Math for America are offering valuable support to promote more effective teaching.
Mathematics teachers at Daniel Pearl Magnet High School strive to help students understand concepts, build new skills, and apply both their skills and understanding to solve problems. Our teachers want students to feel strongly supported in the learning process by their classmates, instructional aides, and us, the mathematics teachers. We want all students to develop and maintain these core beliefs:
- I belong in this academic community (sense of belonging).
- My ability and competence grow with my effort (implicit theories of ability).
- I can succeed at this (self-efficacy).
- This work has value for me (expectancy-value theory).
As teachers in a communications and journalism magnet school, we focus on helping our students write, speak and present more effectively. We strive to help our students communicate about mathematics with accuracy and clarity.
Students who need additional support should talk with their teachers about attending tutoring. In addition, students may get free homework help over the phone through Harvey Mudd College.
Details: Website Link
Number: 1-877-8-ASK-HMC
Grades 4-12 welcome
The homework hotline is staffed by Harvey Mudd students who are trained to offer help without just giving answers to students.
In all courses, students will use the Standards of Mathematical Practice to facilitate their learning.
AP Calculus AB / AP Calculus BC
In this course, students explore college-level calculus topics with an emphasis on understanding and on communicating that understanding. Connections between numerical, graphical, analytical, and verbal representations of functions are key to this communication and to a deep understanding of calculus. Topics covered include end behavior of functions and limits, derivatives and their applications, and integral calculus with its applications. In addition, Calculus BC students will explore advanced integration techniques, calculus with vector functions and functions given in polar coordinates, and the use of infinite series and their transformations to model complex functions. Students will use graphing calculators and other technology frequently to support their analysis and explore the behavior of functions.
Precalculus
In this course, students analyze and solve real-world problems by relying on increasingly sophisticated mathematical techniques. Students gain a stronger understanding of functions, including polynomial functions, rational functions, trigonometric functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and piece-wise defined functions. Students are introduced to limits, parametric equations, vectors, and polar coordinates. Students use computer applications and graphing calculators as problem solving tools.
Algebra 2
In this course, students further develop their understanding of first year algebra concepts. Students also learn to solve absolute value equations and inequalities, calculate and solve with complex numbers, use sequences and series, calculate binomial probability, identify and graph conic sections, and graph and interpret exponential and logarithmic functions. Students continue to develop advanced skills in critical thinking and problem solving.
Geometry
In this course, students gain an understanding of the basic properties of geometric figures and angles. Students apply the relationship of similarity, congruence and transformations on angles, triangles, polygons, circles, and are introduced to trigonometric ratios. Students develop a deeper understanding of features of three dimensional figures. Throughout the course, students practice logical reasoning and pattern recognition.
Algebra 1
In this course, students are introduced to functions and use functions to build upon skills learned in middle school to master the manipulation of algebraic expressions. Topics covered include solving first and second degree equations, graphing first and second degree functions, and solving systems of first and second degree equations. Connections between the graphical, numerical, and analytic representation of functions are drawn.
New Courses Recently Added
Intro to Data Sciences (for details, contact Ms. Seo)
Financial Algebra (for details, contact Mr. Duke)
Additional Resources
For your convenience, we have provided links to the following information, which you might like to view.
Mathematics Content Standards for California Public Schools
SpringBoard Online Los Angeles (online textbooks for Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2)
https://losangelesunifiedca.springboardonline.org/ebook/login
Advanced Placement Calculus information
Online Courses for teacher, parents and students
Mathematical explorations and graphing calculator
Fun and often challenging mathematical riddles
A gateway site to information on math for students at every level. Includes problems, puzzles, and discussions.
http://mathforum.org/
If you have questions about the mathematics department offerings or any information on this page, please contact either of the department teachers.
Tuan "Duke" Huynh at [email protected]
Lori Seo at [email protected]
