Mathematics

No. Students can choose between the student-driven model or the traditional teacher-led model based on their learning needs, preferences, and comfort level. The student-driven option is designed for those who prefer more independence and flexibility, while the teacher-led option provides more direct instruction and structured pacing. Both pathways follow the same curriculum and have the same academic expectations and assessments. 

Mathematics has historically evoked differing levels of comfort among students. Throughout the pandemic, unequal access to consistent math curricula has exacerbated the gap between proficient math learners and those encountering difficulties. There is now an urgent need for enhanced individualized support in math education, signaling the necessity for a transformative approach to teaching mathematics.

All students will have access to instructional math videos that allow them access to their curriculum. Through customized course schedules, 1:1 math teacher support, and collaborative peer groups, all students will be able to engage with their math curriculum with various supports in place. All students will have a math teacher in their classroom supporting their individualized plans.

No. In a flipped classroom, students engage with instructional content outside of class, typically by watching pre-recorded video lectures or accessing online resources independently at home. In this model, class time is then used for interactive activities and hands-on application of concepts. In Mercy's Individualized Learning program, students participate in classroom-based math curriculum, where teachers provide one-on-one support and facilitate peer collaboration. While students maintain control over their pace of learning, they watch instructional videos and interact with the curriculum under the guidance of a teacher. This approach fosters interactive activities and hands-on application of concepts during class time.

Upon completion of Algebra II, students may enroll in a teacher-led Pre-Calculus, Statistics, or Computer Science course. Upon completion of Algebra II Honors, students will have the option to 1.) self-pace through Trigonometry and then advance to Calculus or 2.) enroll in a teacher-led Pre-Calculus, Statistics, or Computer Science course.

Absolutely. Teachers and academic counselors will work with students to create customized academic math plans to ensure they are competitive college applicants and complete necessary curriculum to meet their college and career ambitions.

An individualized math program increases confidence by providing personalized learning experiences and empowering students to take ownership of their learning- recognizing their progress and achievements. By discovering a pace that suits them best, students can either alleviate concerns about keeping up with others' math abilities or continue their learning journey without the need to pause while waiting for peers to catch up.

All students will take a placement test in the spring that assesses their baseline knowledge. Wherever students are in their mastery, they will begin; whether it be chapter 7 of Algebra, chapter 3 of Geometry, or chapter 1 of Algebra II, our math program will meet students where they are and encourage them to advance from there.

Placement tests will be available for Algebra, Geometry, and Algebra II courses. Students will have the option to test out of Algebra and into a higher-level course.

Absolutely not. This program is tailored to accommodate all math learners. Those who excel in math and enjoy pushing their boundaries will have the opportunity to progress at a faster pace than the typical classroom curriculum allows. For these students, the aim is to complete more than one year of math within a calendar year, thereby expanding access to advanced math levels and enhancing their high school transcripts to ensure competitiveness in college applications and fulfillment of essential curriculum for their college and career aspirations.

Every student will receive a pacing model to guide them in completing one course per year. Additional support will be offered to all students during the initial weeks of transitioning to this new math program, ensuring they grasp the optimal pace for their work. Teachers and student support personnel will consistently monitor each student's progress, providing extra assistance to those who require help in staying on track. Any lagging progress or incomplete assignments will be identified through ongoing progress check-ins, prompting the provision of necessary support. For students facing significant challenges in math, personalized plans will be developed in collaboration with their parents or guardians.

Where else can your daughter confidently walk into a math classroom and own her learning at a pace that encourages mastery and confidence? In a world where young girls are often told they can’t, Mercy’s math program will tell them they can.

Absolutely. Various in person and Zoom informational meetings will be offered for families after Quiet Week. Until then, feel free to reach out to us directly. We are excited to discuss this program with our families! 

Algebra 1 develops student skills in evaluating, analyzing, and solving linear, quadratic, rational, and radical equations and systems of linear equations. Students learn a variety of problem-solving strategies and gain experience exploring the graphical representation of mathematical concepts both with technology, such as the iPad and graphing calculator, and without it.

Geometry is the study of angles, parallel lines, basic trigonometry, and the congruence, similarity, and area and volume of polygons (especially triangles). It includes the reinforcement and application of topics studied in Algebra I. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, logic, and various styles of proof.

In Algebra 2, students study relations, functions, and their graphs, linear equations and inequalities, quadratic and other polynomial functions, factoring, direct and inverse variation, powers and roots, exponential and logarithmic functions, complex numbers, rational functions, conics, and probability. The use of a graphing calculator expands the exploration and analysis of real-world applications, such as modeling supply-and-demand curves, sales forecasts, and population growth.

Algebra 2 Honors is an accelerated course that covers the topics from Algebra 2 at a faster pace, in greater depth and includes a detailed study of trigonometry. This includes the unit circle and angle measure,  trigonometric functions,  identities, triangles, and trigonometric equations.  Emphasis is placed on critical thinking and problem-solving.

AP Precalculus prepares students for other college-level mathematics and science courses. The framework delineates content and skills common to college precalculus courses that are foundational for mathematics, physics, biology, health science, social science, and data science careers. Students study each function type through their graphical, numerical, verbal, and analytical representations and their applications in a variety of contexts. Furthermore, students apply their understanding of functions by constructing and validating appropriate function models for scenarios, sets of conditions, and data sets, thereby gaining a deeper understanding of the nature and behavior of each function type.

Precalculus explores advanced mathematical concepts and includes a review of trigonometry, the study of functions, and functions. Some of the functions covered include linear, quadratic, and other polynomial functions, power, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. Other topics include arithmetic, geometric sequences, series, and complex numbers. Critical thinking and real-world problems are emphasized.

This course provides an introduction to the material covered in the first semester of college calculus. Topics include higher-order functions, limits, derivatives, applications of the derivative, integration, the application of the integral, and The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.  Students approach the topics from different perspectives: graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally.

This course contains topics from AP Calculus AB, with a heavy emphasis on the combination of calculus and algebra. Topics include higher order functions, limits, derivatives, applications of the derivative, integration, the application of the integral, and The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, following the topic outline from the College Board.  Students approach the topics from different perspectives: graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally.  Students choosing this course should have a strong work ethic and are expected to complete summer assignments. This course prepares students for the AP Calculus Exam.

This course contains topics from AP Calculus BC, developing key principles more in-depth.  Topics from the Calculus BC outline as defined by the College Board are covered.  Students will approach the topics from different perspectives: graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally.  Students choosing this course need a strong work ethic and are expected to complete summer assignments. This course prepares students for the AP Calculus Exam in May.

AP Computer Science Principles is designed to offer an introduction to computer science and the fundamentals of computer programming. Learn the principles that underlie the science of computing and develop the thinking skills that computer scientists use. You’ll work on your own and as part of a team to creatively address real-world issues using the tools and processes of computation.

AP Computer Science A emphasizes object-oriented JAVA programming with a concentration on problem-solving and algorithm development and is the equivalent of a first-semester college-level course in Computer Science. It includes an introduction to the study of data structures, design, documentation, and abstraction. This course is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Examination administered by the College Board in May. Students will take the Computer Science A Advanced Placement exam. Previous experience in computer programming is helpful as well as a strong math background and critical thinking skills.

Statistics covers the basic principles of descriptive statistics, exploratory data analysis, design of experiments, sampling distributions, estimation, and fitting models to data. Statistical concepts are studied in order to understand related methods and their applications. This course's central themes are measuring the probability of an event, interpreting probability, and using probability in decision-making. Examples of games of chance, business, medicine, policy-making, the natural and social sciences, and sports will be explored. The use of modern statistical computing technology will be emphasized throughout the course.

AP Statistics introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and making inferences from data. This course covers the material covered in the first two semesters of college statistics.  Students are exposed to the four conceptual themes of exploring data, sampling, and experimentation, anticipating patterns, and statistical inference.  It provides a foundation for further studies in business, economics, statistics, economics, the life sciences, psychology, sociology, and other fields.  It prepares students for the AP Statistics Exam.

Dr. Yoyo Wu has been teaching at Mercy High School since 2018 and is the Mathematics Department Chair. She teaches AP Calculus AB, AP Precalculus, Algebra II, AP Computer Science Principles, and AP Computer Science A. She also oversees Mercy’s Engineering and Biology Pathway Programs, supporting students’ academic growth and exploration in STEM fields.

Dr. Wu holds a Doctor of Education in Organization and Leadership and a Master of Arts in Educational Technology from the University of San Francisco, a Master of Science in Computer Science at the Georgia Institute of Technology. She is passionate about integrating technology into the classroom and inspiring students to think critically and creatively.

Mercy graduates will be able to:

• Problem Solving & Reasoning
  • Apply mathematical concepts and procedures to solve problems in abstract, applied, and interdisciplinary contexts.
  • Develop and refine strategies for tackling complex, multi-step problems with persistence and creativity.
  • Use logical reasoning to construct and analyze proofs, justify solutions, and evaluate the validity of arguments.

• Conceptual Understanding
  • Demonstrate a deep understanding of core mathematical principles and the relationships between them.
  • Translate fluently among multiple representations, including symbolic, graphical, numerical, and verbal forms.
  • Identify patterns, make generalizations, and extend reasoning to unfamiliar situations.

• Quantitative & Analytical Skills
  • Analyze relationships, trends, and patterns in quantitative data.
  • Model real-world phenomena using algebraic, geometric, statistical, and calculus-based methods.
  • Evaluate the reasonableness and accuracy of results, refining models and solutions as needed.

• Real-World Application
  • Apply mathematics to make informed decisions in everyday life and professional contexts.
  • Recognize the role of mathematics in STEM fields, business, economics, and social sciences.
  • Integrate mathematical thinking into interdisciplinary research and problem-solving.