Academics
Curriculum

Mathematics

DEPARTMENT PHILOSOPHY:

The philosophy of the Mathematics Department is an echo of the school’s philosophy to educate the whole person and develop the qualities of the DSHA Graduate. Our primary purpose is to educate young women in mathematics and to challenge them to do the best they can, according to their abilities. Critical thinking and communication of mathematical ideas are emphasized. The goals of the Mathematics Department are to develop and refine a student’s ability for problem solving and to equip each student with sufficient mathematical skills so that she has the freedom to pursue the college curriculum and/or career of her choice. Concepts of mathematics are related to real world situations and careers at every opportunity. The department strives to provide an atmosphere where students learn to enjoy and appreciate mathematics, and develop confidence in their mathematical skills.

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.”

  • Katie Blaufuss | at DSHA since 2013 | teaching since 2013

    Mathematics Faculty
    FBLA / Entrepreneurship Club Moderator 
    Dash-a-Thon Coordinator
    BA in Management Accounting and Mathematics, Alverno College
    MA in Business Administration (MBA), Mount Mary University
    BlaufussK@dsha.info

    “I love the all-girls environment at DSHA. This culture creates a sisterhood among students of all grades driven by common interests in academics and co-curricular activities. Teaching teenage girls in a setting where they are motivated and encouraged by one another is such a fun place to work."

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

    Mathematics Faculty
    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!”

  • Kathleen Brennan | at DSHA since 2017 | teaching since 2017

    Mathematics Faculty
    Freshman Volleyball Coach
    BS in Mathematics, Marquette University
    BrennanK@dsha.info

    “The students and faculty of DSHA are so passionate about every aspect of education. I am looking forward to working with students who are excited to challenge themselves inside and outside of the classroom. As a coach, I am eager to help students and athletes excel in all of their passions.”

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

    Specialized Studies Department Chair
    Mathematics and Specialized Studies Faculties
    BS in Industrial Engineering, Purdue University
    MS in Production Systems, 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
    BA in Mathematics Education
    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

    Mathemetics and Specialized Studies Faculties
    Track and Field Assistant Coach
    BA in Mathematics Secondary Education, St. Norbert College
    WissingL@dsha.info

    “As an alum 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.”
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MATHEMATICS CURRICULUM STRUCTURE:

MATH DEPARTMENT COURSE OFFERINGS:

List of 17 items.

  • 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.

    2 semesters
    Required: TI 84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator
    Prerequisite: Placement based on grade school recommendation and November placement test results.

  • 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.

    2 semesters
    Required: TI 84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator
    Prerequisite: Placement based on grade school recommendation and November placement test results.

  • GEOMETRY – 5351 and 5352

    The main concepts in Geometry are covered in this course, with Algebra used throughout. Elements of inductive and deductive reasoning, angle relationships, parallel lines, congruent triangles, transformational geometry, polygon and circle relationships, and a brief introduction to trigonometry will be included. Discovery and hands-on activities are used to develop concepts, including using geometry to model real world applications. 

    2 semesters
    Required: T1-84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator        
    Prerequisite: Algebra II

  • GEOMETRY WITH DEDUCTIVE REASONING – 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.

    2 semesters
    Required: T1-84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator     
    Prerequisite: Algebra II with Trigonometry or Freshman Algebra II

  • 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.

    2 semesters
    Required: TI 84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator        
    Prerequisite: Minimum Grade of a C in Honors Algebra II or Freshman Algebra II (with teacher recommendation)

  • 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, and logarithmic functions. Students will also be introduced to trigonometric ratios and functions. Completion of this course will prepare students for registration in either Geometry with Deductive Reasoning or Honors Geometry, as recommended by the instructor. Final placement is based on results of placement exam taken in May. 

    2 semesters
    Required: TI 84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator
    Prerequisite: Placement based on grade school recommendation and November placement test results.

  • ALGEBRA II – 5421 and 5422

    This course reviews topics presented in Algebra 1 including expressions, equations, inequalities, functions, polynomials, factoring, and rational expressions with an emphasis on critical thinking. Expansion of these topics continues with the introduction of special functions, linear programming, matrices, complex numbers, quadratic and exponential functions, radical expressions and rational exponents. The development of a deeper understanding of concepts is supported through mathematical modeling and a focus on problem solving.

    2 semesters
    Required: TI-84 Plus Silver Edition or TI-84 Plus CE Calculator
    Prerequisite: Geometry

  • ALGEBRA II WITH TRIGONOMETRY – 5411 and 5412

    After a brief review of elementary algebraic concepts, students in Algebra II with Trigonometry 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 expressions, exponential functions, and logarithmic functions. Students will also be introduced to trigonometric ratios functions. 

    2 semesters
    Required: TI 84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator
    Prerequisite: Geometry with Deductive Reasoning 

  • 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, exponential and logarithmic functions, graphing functions.  Students will also be introduced to trigonometric ratios and 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.

    2 semesters
    Required: TI 84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator         
    Prerequisite: Initial placement based on grade school  recommendation and November placement test. 
    Final placement based on results of  placement exam taken in May.

  • FUNCTIONS, STATISTICS AND TRIGONOMETRY – 5521 and 5522

    FST is designed for seniors as a sequel to Algebra II.  The course is designed to help students acquire a solid foundation in algebra and trigonometry, preparing them for other courses such as  calculus, business calculus and finite mathematics.  It will show students how algebra and trigonometry can model and solve authentic real-world problems.  It will enable students to develop problem-solving skills, while fostering critical thinking. 

    2 semesters
    Required: T1-84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator         
    Prerequisite: Algebra II and Geometry

  • 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.
    

    2 semesters
    Required: T1-84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator         
    Prerequisite: Algebra II with Trigonometry and Geometry with Deductive Reasoning

  • HONORS TRIGONOMETRY/PRECALCULUS – 5461 and 5462

    Honors Trigonometry/Precalculus covers pre-calculus topics including function analysis, matrices, conic sections, exponential and logarithmic functions, sequences and series, probability, descriptive statistics, parametric equations, polar coordinate system, and trigonometry topics including circular functions, trigonometric functions and their graphs, trigonometric identities, solutions of triangles, and inverse trigonometric functions.

    2 semesters
    Required: TI 84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator           
    Prerequisite: Minimum Grade of a C in Honors Algebra II and Honors Geometry

  • 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.

    1 semester, prerequisite is Pre-Calculus (completed or concurrent enrollment)

  • 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, 37 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.

    1 semester, prerequisite is Pre-Calculus (completed or concurrent enrollment)

  • 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.

    Grade 12; 2 semesters
    Required: TI 84+ silver edition graphing calculator
    Prerequisite: Honors Trigonometry/Precalculus or Precalculus with Trigonometry and Statistics

  • 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.

    2 semesters
    Required: T1-84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator
    Prerequisite: Honors Trigonometry/Precalculus
    Fee: AP preparation material and exam fees
    Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit offerings here

  • 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.

    2 semesters
    Required: T1-84+ Silver Edition Graphing Calculator
    Prerequisite: Minimum Grade of a C in Honors Trigonometry/Precalculus
    Time: Extended class time until 3:15 two days each week
    Fee: AP preparation materials and exam fees
    Learn more about AP & Dual-Credit offerings here
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
Mathematics Faculty Rissie Lundberg was published in the December 2016 issue of Mathematics Teacher’s Magazine, a first-person account of her favorite lesson entitled,  "Can We Use a Mirror to Find Height?"
There are a multitude of related opportunities for mathematics-driven students at DSHA.
Discover some of the Math-related opportunities below:

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