Math

Seattle Academy believes that the study of mathematics is vital to a well-rounded and highly successful individual. The curriculum and faculty of the Math Department provide opportunities for all students to develop as problem solvers, a challenge for math lovers, and an appropriate pace for each student. Classes help students build a strong foundation of skills with applications and extensions that apply to robotics, programming, and engineering. The most important thing you will find in our mathematics class is the outstanding faculty who love their area of study and show that passion to their students.

Middle School
Upper School

Middle School

In Middle School, our algebra-based program merges geometry, statistics, and computer science. As Middle School begins, students hone number-sense skills and develop flexibility with concrete operations and understanding of variables. Continuing through our Middle School program, students master key concepts from algebra and geometry.

MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM GUIDE

Upper School

Upper School students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. As nearly all of our students take four years of mathematics, or even choose to enroll in extra mathematics courses, we offer Calculus 1 and 2 as well as a series of topics that explore the applications of mathematics. Advanced math and elective courses are available to students once they have met core math requirements.

Upper School Curriculum Guide

MEET THE MATH FACULTY

Maximum Results

Students use the Calculus concept of optimization to collect and analyze real-world datasets of their choosing. Past projects have answered questions such as "How much sleep should I get each night to maximize productivity?" and "What will the world population be when I graduate from college?"

Math at Seattle Academy FAQ

How is a student’s math course determined?

For their first year at SAAS, the following determines how a student is placed:

transcripts and other information from previous school(s)
information provided by the family and previous teacher
placement test scores

Throughout the school year faculty observe, assess, and analyze math performance and annual placement test scores. Each spring faculty make placement recommendations for the following year.

If my child is in an accelerated math program at another school, what options do they have if they transfer to SAAS?

After the school year starts, can a student change their math placement?

Occasionally after reviewing a student’s progress in a particular math course, a teacher may recommend that a student change courses. Although course changes are rare, we strive to help each student to fully meet their math potential. The Math Department chair oversees all students’ long-term math plans and placement with the advice of teachers, testing data, and the big picture of students’ course schedules.

What does a typical day look like in a math classroom?

Variety is key! One day students might use technology to make observations and explore patterns, while another day they might investigate a new topic together and report their findings. One week students might work in groups to explore the math supporting a rover’s mission on Mars, while another week students might work at their own pace to develop and grow concepts and procedures.

Do you have honors or AP classes?

What are examples of math sequences for students?

Grade	Sample 1	Sample 2	Sample 3
6	Math 6	Pre-Algebra 6	Math 6
7	Pre-Algebra 7	Geometry 7	Math Lab 7
8	Algebra 8	Accelerated Algebra 8	Math Lab 8
9	Geometry	Algebra 2	Algebra 1
10	Algebra 2	Precalculus	Geometry
11	Precalculus	Calculus 1	Algebra 2
12	Calculus 1	Calculus 2	Precalculus

View the Math Pathways by Division Below:

Middle School Math Pathways

Upper School Math Pathways