Mathematics

 

FOCUS AND PHILOSOPHY

Mathematical skills taught in isolation tend to have little or no long term value. At Wichita Collegiate School, every effort is made to place mathematical instruction in a meaningful and revealing context that not only builds appropriate skills, but instills the critical thought processes needed to select the mathematical processes appropriate to a given setting and to extend obtained knowledge to new processes necessary for the emerging circumstances.

We believe students acquire this depth of knowledge by approaching a given problem or topic from several different points of view and then articulating the connections revealed through those approaches. Whenever possible, topics and problems are pursued through a numerical and/or data analysis, a graphical analysis, and an analytical development. Students are expected to articulate their finding in group discussions and in formal written reports. Through these efforts we expect to graduate students who are capable of using their mathematical knowledge within other disciplines, who can write, read and comprehend technical articles in support of their lifelong learning, and who embrace mathematical thought as an enduring human endeavor.

We strive to:

1. model mathematical thought in our approach to everyday problems
2. create an openness in the classroom which leads to the sharing of information and an appreciation for the thoughts of others
3. teach in the context of meaningful applications
4. encourage the use of appropriate technology
5. provide challenges suitable at each level
6. provide the support needed for each individual to meet these challenges.
    

We believe:

1. students need the freedom to develop independence of thought and action
2. students should assume increasing responsibility for their growth and change
3. organization, logical thinking, discovery, resource management, and group
4. interaction are fundamental to individual progress
5. assessment should be linked in a natural way to the learning process
6. all WCS students are capable of pursuing substantial mathematics
7. our focus should be on the needs of our students.

We hope to:

1. instill in our students, through this philosophy, an appreciation for the beauty of mathematics and for its nature as a human endeavor that encompasses both the history and future of civilization
2. graduate students who are courageous in their efforts to understand and induce change and who display confidence and creativity in their approach to problems.

Mathematics Competitions

Mathematics students in the Upper School compete each year in the American High School Mathematics Competition as well as competitions at Emporia State University and Pittsburg State University. 

WCS Mathematics Department Focus and Philosophy

Upper School Instructional Focus

Upper School Math Requirements