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Academics
Curriculum

Mathematics

DEPARTMENT PHILOSOPHY

The philosophy of the mathematics department is an echo of the school’s philosophy. Our primary purpose is to educate young women in mathematics and to challenge them to do the best they can, according to their abilities.

Our goals are to develop and refine a student’s ability to solve problems using critical thinking and analysis. Three to four years of course work in mathematics at DSHA will address all the content standards of the Wisconsin State Standards, with a special focus and concentration on the Mathematical Practice Standards of the Wisconsin State Standards. The use of technology is integrated into course work to prepare students for the demands of the 21st century. While three years of mathematics are required for graduation, four years are recommended as preparation for standardized testing and college course work. Students will be equipped with sufficient mathematical skills to provide the freedom to pursue the college curriculum and career of their choice. 

Development of mathematical concepts does require student work outside of the classroom to develop, practice, and reinforce concepts. Students taking mathematics courses should plan to do 30 to 45 minutes of homework in mathematics most nights. 

Honors courses are designed for those students with exceptional mathematical ability. Mathematical topics normally studied will be pursued in greater depth and at an accelerated pace in the honors program. The senior honors offerings are Calculus and Advanced Placement Calculus AB or BC. 

MATH DEPARTMENT COURSE OFFERINGS

List of 12 items.

  • FOUNDATIONS OF ALGEBRA – 5001 and 5002

    The main concepts of Algebra are covered in this course integrating the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics. Topics presented include operations with real numbers, solving linear equations and inequalities, polynomials and factoring, finding square roots and solving quadratic equations using square roots, factoring, simplifying radical expressions, operations with radical expressions and the quadratic formula.

    Prerequisite: Initial placement based on grade school recommendation and placement test results
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator

  • ADVANCED ALGEBRA I – 5201 and 5202

    This course is designed for students who have completed Algebra 1 (or a strong Pre-Algebra program) in middle school but need additional work for mastery.  Concepts are covered more in-depth with an emphasis on critical thinking and application. Linear equations, inequalities, polynomials, factoring, quadratic equations, radicals, rational expressions, and statistics are presented.  Additional emphasis will be placed on mathematical modeling, problem-solving, data analysis, graphing calculator technology, and both written and oral communication.

    Prerequisite: Initial placement based on grade school recommendation and placement test results
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator

  • ALGEBRA I – 5251 and 5252

    The main concepts of Algebra are covered in this course integrating the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics. Topics presented include operations with real numbers, solving linear equations and inequalities, solving and applying proportions, linear equations and their graphs, systems of linear equations, exponents, polynomials and factoring, finding square roots and solving quadratic equations using square roots, factoring, simplifying radical expressions, operations with radical expressions, and the quadratic formula.

    Prerequisite: Initial placement based on grade school recommendation and placement test results
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator

  • FRESHMAN ALGEBRA II – 5221 and 5222

    Freshman Algebra II is designed for freshmen who have completed an Algebra I course with full mastery.  After a brief review of elementary algebraic concepts, new topics are introduced.  These topics are piecewise functions, linear programming, and solving systems of linear equations in three variables. This course will also cover quadratic and higher degree polynomial functions, complex numbers, rational expressions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, and probability and statistics. Students will also be introduced to trigonometric ratios and functions. Completion of this course will prepare students for registration in either Geometry or Honors Geometry, as recommended by the instructor.  

    Prerequisite: Initial placement based on grade school recommendation and placement test results
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator

  • HONORS ALGEBRA II – 5261 and 5262

    Honors Algebra II is designed for students who have exceptional ability in mathematics and have completed the curriculum of Algebra I with mastery.  This course will cover the traditional curriculum of Algebra II including quadratic functions, complex numbers, rational expressions, higher degree polynomial equations, radical equations, exponential and logarithmic functions, and probability and statistics.  Students will also be introduced to trigonometric ratios, functions, and trigonometric graphs. Concepts will be covered at a greater depth for a clearer understanding and application to future Honors math courses.  Students will use the graphing calculator extensively as a tool for mathematical modeling and analysis.

    Prerequisite: Initial placement based on grade school recommendation and placement test results
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator

     

  • GEOMETRY – 5301 and 5302

    This course in Euclidean Geometry develops both deductive and inductive reasoning skills. Students use visualization and analysis, and are encouraged to make conjectures. The close relationship of geometry to algebra and the real numbers is illustrated. Geometry concepts covered will include elements of deductive reasoning and proofs, angle relationships, congruent triangles, similarity, right triangle trigonometry, parallel and perpendicular lines, relationships within triangles, quadrilaterals, area, solid geometry with finding surface area and volume, and circles. Geometric relationships are used to explore and model real world applications.  Inductive reasoning skills are developed using Geometer’s Sketchpad. In preparation for standardized testing, algebraic skills are reviewed and reinforced.
        
    Prerequisite: Algebra I, Advanced Algebra I, or Freshman Algebra II
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator 

  • CALCULUS – 5531 and 5532

    Calculus is designed for the fourth-year math student who does not intend to take the AP Calculus test but wishes to study calculus topics. The course will emphasize limits, derivatives, integrals, and Calculus-oriented applications from a variety of fields.

    Prerequisite: AP Precalculus or Precalculus with Trigonometry and Statistics
    Grade: 12
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator

  • HONORS GEOMETRY – 5361 and 5362

    This course in Geometry covers concepts that include elements of deductive reasoning and proofs, angle relationships, parallel lines, congruent triangles, similar triangles, right triangle relationships, circles, solid geometry, and coordinate geometry. Deductive and inductive reasoning skills are developed throughout the coursework, and by using computer software such as Geometer’s Sketchpad. This course will also include an introduction to basic trigonometry concepts. Connections between algebra and geometry are integrated into this course.


    Prerequisite: Minimum Grade of a C in Honors Algebra II or Freshman Algebra II with teacher recommendation
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator 

  • ALGEBRA II – 5411 and 5412

    After a brief review of elementary algebraic concepts, students in Algebra II are introduced to new topics. These topics are piecewise functions, linear programming, and solving systems of linear equations in three variables. This course will also cover quadratic and higher-degree polynomial functions, complex numbers, rational equations, rational expressions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, and probability and statistics. Students will also be introduced to trigonometric ratios and functions. 

    Prerequisite: Geometry
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator 

  • PRECALCULUS WITH TRIGONOMETRY AND STATISTICS – 5501 and 5502

    Precalculus with Trigonometry and Statistics extends the concepts of Algebra II, focusing on skills mentioned in the Common Core State Standards. This course encompasses a wide variety of topics, including analysis of functions (linear, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and inverse trigonometric), trigonometry, sequences and series, matrices, and combinatorics. This course also considers basic descriptive and inferential statistics. This course is intended to integrate both process and application, using technology to illustrate concepts whenever applicable.

    Prerequisite: Any Geometry and Algebra II class
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator 

  • DISCRETE MATHEMATICS – 5710

    Discrete mathematics is a branch of mathematics that studies functions and relations which are discrete (individually separate and distinct) and not continuous. This course will introduce and study different methods of counting, sequences, symbolic logic, and graph theory. Since discrete mathematics is widely used in many fields (ex. computer science, engineering) we will look at applications to those fields. In order to run this course, at least 10 students must be enrolled. Please note that this is an elective math course and should not replace any class in the math sequence.

    Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus (or concurrent enrollment)
    Semesters: 1
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator     

  • LINEAR ALGEBRA – 5720

    Linear Algebra is a branch of mathematics that studies linear equations and linear functions and their representations through matrices and vector spaces. This course will introduce and study matrices, vectors, and their applications. Since linear algebra is widely used in many fields (ex. computer science or engineering) we will look at applications to those fields. In order to run this course, at least 10 students must be enrolled. Please note that this is an elective math course and should not replace any class in the math sequence.

    Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus (completed or concurrent enrollment)
    Semesters: 1
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator     

AP & DUAL CREDIT COURSE OFFERINGS

List of 4 items.

  • AP PRECALCULUS – 5131 and 5132

    AP Pre-Calculus covers pre-calculus topics including polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, trigonometric and polar functions, and functions involving parameters, vectors, and matrices. The material covered in this course will be challenging and may require an increased amount of time to do homework. Students are not required to take the AP exam in May. Students will have to contact colleges about receiving college credit.

    Prerequisite: Any Geometry and Algebra II class
    Semesters: 2
    Fee: Additional fee for AP exam
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator 

    Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit offerings.

  • AP CALCULUS (AB) – 5151 and 5152

    After a brief review of the prerequisites for Calculus, students study limits, continuity, and the topics of differential and integral Calculus. The material in this course is very challenging and may require an increased amount of time to do homework. All students are expected to take the AP Calculus AB exam in May. Most colleges offer one semester credit for successful completion of the AP Calculus exam. Additional meeting times may be scheduled in April and May in preparation for the AP exam.

    Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in AP Precalculus and teacher recommendation
    Semesters: 2
    Fee: Additional fee for AP exam
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator

  • AP CALCULUS (BC) – 5141 and 5142

    While similar in rigor and initial content to AP Calculus AB, this course includes additional topics from the second semester of college Calculus including concepts related to sequences and series, vectors, parametric and polar coordinates, etc. The pace of this course is accelerated compared to AP Calculus AB and the class will be extended to 3:15 two days/week. All students are expected to take the AP Calculus BC exam in May. Students who successfully complete the AP Calculus BC exam may receive credit for two semesters of college Calculus.

    Prerequisite: Minimum grade of C in AP Precalculus and teacher recommendation
    Semesters: 2
    Fee: Additional fee for AP exam
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator; extra class time is required twice each week (until 3:15 p.m.)

    Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit offerings.

  • MATH 1100: COLLEGE ALGEBRA 5541 and 5542**

    This class was formerly called MT 195: College Algebra – 5541 and 5542.

    This course provides an overview of the fundamental concepts of algebra. Topics include linear and quadratic equations and inequalities; the Cartesian plane and graphing; functions; graphs and models; polynomial and rational functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; and systems of equations and inequalities.
    Students who started freshman year in Algebra I are good candidates for taking College Algebra.

    Prerequisite: Any Geometry and Algebra II class
    Semesters: 2
    Other requirements: TI-84 + CE or any T-84 graphing calculator 

    *Students will be eligible to receive 3 transferable college credits from Marquette University by enrolling in the Concurrent Enrollment dual-credit program. 

    Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit offerings. 

MEET THE MATH DEPARTMENT FACULTY

  • Dawn Gardner | at DSHA since 1997 | teaching since 1996

    Mathematics Department Chair
    Mathematics Faculty
    BS in Mathematics Education, Winona State University
    GardnerD@dsha.info

    “It is the girls… It’s the girls that make me love teaching at DSHA. Their energy, enthusiasm, creativity, passion and caring hearts are what inspire me everyday.”

  • Emily Brown | at DSHA since 2015 | teaching since 2004

    Mathematics Faculty
    She's the First Co-Curricular Moderator
    Dash-A-Thon Coordinator
    DASH Youth Basketball Director
    BS in Mathematics, Michigan Technological University
    MA in Curriculum and Instruction, National Louis University
    BrownE@dsha.info

    “Choosing to work at DSHA has been the best decision I could have made. The girls care about their education and have a thirst for knowledge and success. Beyond being dedicated in the classroom, they are faith and service oriented young women. Working with them has been a blessing!”

  • Laura Clark, DSHA '93 | at DSHA since 2016| teaching since 2009

    Mathematics Faculty
    Specialized Studies Faculty
    BS in Mathematics, Creighton University
    MBA, Marquette University
    MAF (Master's in Finance), Boston College
    ClarkL@dsha.info

    "I am excited to be teaching at DSHA and given the opportunity to build positive and inspired future generations of young women."

  • Connie Farrow | at DSHA since 2013 | teaching since 1987

    Specialized Studies Department Chair
    Mathematics Faculty
    Specialized Studies Faculty 
    STEM Scholars Co-Moderator 
    BS in Industrial Engineering, Purdue University
    MS in Mechanical Engineering, Marquette University
    Teaching Certification, Cardinal Stritch University
    FarrowC@dsha.info

    “DSHA girls are the best! They keep me smiling, and I LOVE seeing the lightbulb go on when they finally understand a concept they’ve been struggling with.”

  • Rissie Lundberg, DSHA '93 | at DSHA since 2006 | teaching since 2003

    Mathematics Faculty
    Math Club Co-Curricular Moderator
    BA in Mathematics Education, Brigham Young University
    LundbergC@dsha.info

    “I love my job because I am able to explore areas of academia that are of interest to me and then share what I have learned with students. In turn, they are constantly teaching me new ways to look at old problems."

  • Libby Wissing, DSHA '10 | at DSHA since 2014 | teaching since 2014

    Mathematics Faculty
    Specialized Studies Faculty
    Cross Country and Track & Field Assistant Coach
    Asian Student Union Co-Curricular Moderator
    BA in Mathematics Secondary Education, St. Norbert College
    WissingL@dsha.info

    “As an alumna of DSHA, I have the immense privilege of working alongside many of the teachers who inspired me to go into the field of education. While I was a student, it was obvious to me that the teachers at DSHA were hard working individuals – as a colleague, I am shown proof of that daily. The men and women I work with are constantly striving to find the next innovative lesson, make a daring connection across curriculum, or try a new approach to a topic.”

  • Lisa Curran | at DSHA since 2021 | teaching since 1995

    Mathematics Faculty
    BA in Mathematics, Marquette University
    MA in Math Education, DePaul University
    CurranL@dsha.info

    “My goal is for girls to view mathematics as an interesting, fun, and accessible challenge."

Curriculum Structure

Department-Related Co-Curriculars & Activities

List of 3 items.

  • Math Club

  • Robotics Team

  • SMART Team

Department-Related Resources

DSHA offers the following math-based courses through the new Specialized Studies Department: AP Stats, AP Computer Science, Engineering, Accounting, and College Accounting.
Click here to learn more

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