Mathematics

For more than two thousand years, mathematics has been a part of the human search for understanding. From the initial desire to describe the natural world and form inescapable truths by careful reasoning, it has evolved to be used in all walks of modern life. From trends in politics to the stresses on the Bay Bridge, from bus schedules to recipes, from software engineering to weather patterns, math is all around us!

At International we endeavor to instill in all our students the belief that learning to think in mathematical terms is an essential part of being a liberated thinker. Through critical thinking, problem solving, proof, and modeling, we strive to fuel a passion for the magic and poetry of mathematics, and to foster an understanding that mathematics is less about the answer than it is about the process.

In the words of the famous Russian novelist and philosopher, Leo Nikolaevich Tolstoy:
“Some mathematician has said pleasure lies not in discovering truth, but in seeking it.”

Grade 9

INTERNATIONAL SECTION

 

Our math program for grades 9 and 10 in the International Track has been tailored to prepare students from a diverse range of middle schools for the rigors of the IB math classes (all IB math courses entail calculus).

Math Placement:  A student’s initial mathematics placement is based on quantitative SSAT (or equivalent) scores, the middle school math recommendation, and our own placement tests. We acknowledge that these tests do not provide full measure of a students's math aptitude and motivation. Accordingly there is always some results-based, teacher validated movement between classes during the first three weeks of school. 


INTEGRATED MATHEMATICS I
[5 hours per week; taught in English]


Course Coverage: The core course is known as Integrated Math and is approved as a UC a-g requirement. Integrated Math consolidates algebra and contains elements of trigonometry, geometry and statistics (including probability). Integrated Math is based on the final two years of the internationally acclaimed MYP program.  

Our teachers of Integrated Math differentiate their approach according to the aptitudes, levels of attainment and individual learning modalities of each student.

Assessment competencies: 

• Reads and interprets a problem in appropriate mathematical terms
• Formulates a mathematical argument and communicates it clearly
• Applies previously learned techniques in new situations 
• Performs well on tests and quizzes 
• Performs well on homework 
• Manages time effectively and is fully engaged in class

Standards alignment: School defined
Updated: August 2016

  

ALGEBRA II/GEOMETRY 
[5 hours per week]

We also have a more advanced Integrated Math class described formally for the UC a-g requirement as Algebra II/Geometry. This fast paced course is for students who have proven high math attainment from middle school, and who are on the fast track to our advanced integrated math class in 10th grade, formally labeled Pre-Calculus (again for the UC requirement).

Course Coverage: Instructional time in this fast-paced course will focus upon an extension of the Integrated Mathematics course with an additional Geometry component. 

Assessment competencies: 
• Reads and interprets a problem in appropriate mathematical terms
• Formulates a mathematical argument and communicates it clearly
• Applies previously learned techniques in new situations 
• Performs well on tests and quizzes 
• Performs well on homework 
• Manages time effectively and is fully engaged in class

Standards alignment: School defined
Updated: August 2016


FRENCH SECTION

MATHÉMATIQUES
[5 periods per week; taught in French]


This class includes an equal amount of geometry and algebra, and is aimed at students with a broad range of abilities, who are intending to sit the French National Brevet examinations. This class prepares students who will proceed to any of the French Bac or IB sections. Some of the topics covered are: simultaneous equation systems, working with literal expressions, linear mappings, quadratics, statistical measures and descriptions, introductory trigonometry, circular angles, vectors, pyramids, cones, spheres, coordinate geometry, translations, and rotations.

Assessment competencies: 
• Communiquer à l'écrit et à l'oral
• Mettre en oeuvre une recherche de façon autonome
• Mener des raisonnements
• Avoir un esprit critique

Standards alignment: Ministère de l’Éducation nationale
Updated: August 2016 

Grade 10

INTERNATIONAL SECTION

INTEGRATED MATHEMATICS II
[5 periods per week]

This course is recommended for students entering 10th grade who have taken the Integrated Mathematics I course in 9th grade.

Course Coverage: Instructional time will focus upon a continued in-depth study of algebraic and geometric concepts including logarithms, complex numbers, trigonometry, circle theorems, functions, and similarity. Students will continue to develop their problem solving skills by recognizing the need for accuracy and the valid presentation of their reasoning.

Assessment competencies: 
• Reads and interprets a problem in appropriate mathematical terms
• Formulates a mathematical argument and communicates it clearly
• Applies previously learned techniques in new situations 
• Performs well on tests and quizzes 
• Performs well on homework 
• Manages time effectively and is fully engaged in class

Standards alignment: School defined
Updated: August 2016

 

PRE-CALCULUS

[5 periods per week]

This advanced and fast paced mathematics class is suitable for those students entering tenth grade who have demonstrated a high ability and an enthusiasm in all areas of mathematics. 

Course Coverage: In addition to reinforcing the previously learned topics and concepts covered in ninth grade, students will be introduced to more complex mathematical topics including analysis of functions, matrices, transformations, analytic geometry, and loci.


Assessment competencies: 
• Reads and interprets a problem in appropriate mathematical terms
• Formulates a mathematical argument and communicates it clearly
• Applies previously learned techniques in new situations 
• Performs well on tests and quizzes 
• Performs well on homework 
• Manages time effectively and is fully engaged in class

Standards alignment: School defined
Updated: August 2016

 

SCHOLASTIC APTITUDE TEST (SAT) MATHEMATICS PREPARATION
[1 period per week for 1 quarter]

This non-graded course is mandatory for all students in the 10th grade.

Course Coverage: This course provides students with an introduction to the format and requirements of the new (2016) SAT examination including the three main topics covered particular to the subject of mathematics – heart of algebra, problem solving and data analysis, and passport to advanced math. Students will be shown test taking strategies to employ through use of practice SAT tests.

Standards alignment: School defined
Updated: August 2016


FRENCH SECTION

MATHÉMATIQUES 
[5 periods per week; taught in French]

This class continues to prepare students who intend to enter any level of the French Bac and IB math programs. The three main sub-sections of the course are: statistics (probability and data analysis), algebra (up to the analysis of functions), and geometry (Cartesian space, vector algebra, transformations, trigonometric functions, lines and planes in space).


Assessment competencies: 
• Communiquer à l'écrit et à l'oral
• Mettre en oeuvre une recherche de façon autonome
• Mener des raisonnements
• Avoir un esprit critique

Standards alignment: Ministère de l’Éducation nationale
Updated: August 2016

Grades 11 & 12

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE
IB MATHEMATICAL STUDIES
[4 periods per week]

This two year course is designed for students intending to pursue college studies in which highly rigorous levels of mathematics are not necessary, but where a solid understanding of the application of mathematical methods is helpful. It caters for students from a variety of mathematical backgrounds. Topic coverage includes: number and algebra, sets, logic, probability, functions (including trigonometric functions), solid geometry, statistics (up to hypothesis testing), financial mathematics, and introductory differential calculus. The student’s proficiency and application is demonstrated through a compulsory math project paper which forms a component of the final IB grade.

Assessment competencies: 
• Reads and interprets a problem in appropriate mathematical terms
• Formulates a mathematical argument and communicates it clearly
• Applies previously learned techniques in new situations 
• Performs well on tests and quizzes 
• Performs well on homework 
• Manages time effectively and is fully engaged in class

Standards alignment: International Baccalaureate Organization
Updated: August 2016

 

IB MATHEMATICS STANDARD LEVEL
[5 periods per week]

This two year course is designed for students who intend to pursue college studies for which a strong foundation in mathematics is required (for example: biology, chemistry, economics, business). Students need to possess knowledge of basic mathematical skills. The program delivers a variety of topics, including: the analysis of functions, algebraic manipulation, vectors and matrices, sequences and series, circular functions and trigonometry, statistics and probability, differential and integral calculus, and complex numbers. Students can demonstrate their analytical skills and mathematical methods through two portfolio tasks that form a component of their final IB grade.

Assessment competencies: 
• Reads and interprets a problem in appropriate mathematical terms
• Formulates a mathematical argument and communicates it clearly
• Applies previously learned techniques in new situations 
• Performs well on tests and quizzes 
• Performs well on homework 
• Manages time effectively and is fully engaged in class

Standards alignment: International Baccalaureate Organization
Updated: August 2016

 

IB MATHEMATICS HIGHER LEVEL
[5 periods per week]

This course is intended for students who intend to pursue college studies in which solid preparation in advanced level mathematics is essential (for example, physics, engineering, computer science). Topics covered over two years include: analysis of functions, matrices and transformations, complex numbers, vector geometry in 3 or n space, probability and statistics (including hypothesis testing), differential and integral calculus (up to simple differential equations). In addition one special topic is selected for more in depth coverage from the following: statistics; sets, relations and groups; series and differential equations; discrete mathematics. Students have the opportunity to demonstrate abstract skills and critical thinking through two portfolio tasks that form a component of their final IB grade.

 

Assessment competencies: 
• Reads and interprets a problem in appropriate mathematical terms
• Formulates a mathematical argument and communicates it clearly
• Applies previously learned techniques in new situations 
• Performs well on tests and quizzes 
• Performs well on homework 
• Manages time effectively and is fully engaged in class

Standards alignment: International Baccalaureate Organization
Updated: August 2016


IB FURTHER MATHEMATICS HIGHER LEVEL
[Mentored advanced study: two or more periods per week]

Further Math Higher Level is the toughest externally examined high school math program in the world. This elite IB course includes linear algebra and exotic mathematical objects such as l'Hôpital's Rule, Maclaurin series, eigenvectors, and Euler's relation.

Assessment competencies: 
• Reads and interprets a problem in appropriate mathematical terms
• Formulates a mathematical argument and communicates it clearly
• Applies previously learned techniques in new situations 
• Performs well on tests and quizzes 
• Performs well on homework 
• Manages time effectively and is fully engaged in class

Standards alignment: International Baccalaureate Organization
Updated: August 2016


LE BAC


PREMIÈRE S MATHÉMATIQUES
[5 periods per week; taught in French]

This course is for students who have elected to study mathematics at a highly rigorous level. Topics covered include function analysis (trigonometric functions, derivatives, optimization, sequence, limits), plane geometry (scalar product, barycentric coordinates, plane transformations), space geometry (solid sections, coordinate geometry, vector geometry), statistics, and probability theory.

There is no “spécialité” in Grade 11 S.

Assessment competencies: 
• Communiquer à l'écrit et à l'oral
• Mettre en oeuvre une recherche de façon autonome
• Mener des raisonnements
• Avoir un esprit critique

Standards alignment: Ministère de l’Éducation nationale
Updated: August 2016



TERMINALE S MATHÉMATIQUES
[6 periods per week; taught in French]
SPÉCIALITÉ
[2 periods per week—optional]

This course is the continuation of Grade 11 S. Calculus (including differential equations) is emphasized strongly, but other topics include probability theory (conditional probability, probability distributions), complex numbers (and their use in coordinate geometry), and space coordinate geometry (including scalar product).

The "spécialité" course focuses on number theory (prime numbers, congruencies, Bézout and Gauss theorems) and on plane transformations (isometric and non isometric transformation with an introduction to abstract algebra and examples of groups).

Assessment competencies: 
• Communiquer à l'écrit et à l'oral
• Mettre en oeuvre une recherche de façon autonome
• Mener des raisonnements
• Avoir un esprit critique

Standards alignment: Ministère de l’Éducation nationale
Updated: August 2016



PREMIÈRE ES MATHÉMATIQUES
[3 periods per week; taught in French]
SPÉCIALITÉ
[2 periods per week—optional]

This course is designed for students intending to study social sciences or businesses at the university level and focuses on applied mathematical methods. Topics covered include statistics, probability theory, function analysis (derivatives and limits), sequences, and simultaneous equation or inequality systems.
The "spécialité" course goes deeper into the topic of function analysis and also covers space coordinate geometry and matrices and their applications.

Assessment competencies: 
• Communiquer à l'écrit et à l'oral
• Mettre en oeuvre une recherche de façon autonome
• Mener des raisonnements
• Avoir un esprit critique

Standards alignment: Ministère de l’Éducation nationale
Updated: August 2016



TERMINALE ES MATHÉMATIQUES
[4 periods per week; taught in French]
SPÉCIALITÉ
[2 periods per week—optional]

This course is the continuation of Grade 11 ES and includes statistics and probability theory, function analysis, and differential and integral calculus.

The "spécialité" course focuses on graph theory (graph modeling, graph coloring, Eulerian paths and cycles, and Dijkstra algorithm), space geometry (3D representation of two variable functions and level curves), and sequences (variation, limit, and series).

Assessment competencies: 
• Communiquer à l'écrit et à l'oral
• Mettre en oeuvre une recherche de façon autonome
• Mener des raisonnements
• Avoir un esprit critique

Standards alignment: Ministère de l’Éducation nationale
Updated: August 2016 

International High School

150 Oak Street

San Francisco, CA 94102-5912

Phone: 415.558.2000

Directory Our Locations

An independent Pre-K through 12th grade co-educational day school in the heart of San Francisco. The school delivers a rigorous bilingual (French/English) immersion program through middle school, culminating in either French Baccalaureate or International Baccalaureate program in its International High School.

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