What is HSML's recommendation regarding Geometry?
Order of classes:
Why DO students traditionally take Algebra 1, then Geometry, and then Algebra 2? As a general rule, HSML strongly recommends that a student take Geometry prior to Algebra 2. Although it is certainly possible to have a successful year in Algebra 2 before taking Geometry, here are some thoughts to consider as you decide what is right for your student.
First, it is important to know that the material covered in Geometry does build on the concepts taught in Algebra 1. It is not a total break from Algebra - it is an extension. For example, Algebra 1 students are taught to manipulate linear equations and are introduced to graphing. Geometry students go much deeper into the graphing of linear equations. Geometry promotes abstract thinking which supports Algebra 2 problems. Then, in Algebra 2, students combine skills learned in Algebra 1 and Geometry and go even further into a topic. Geometry really does fit nicely between the Algebra courses.
Second, it is important to know that the material covered in Pre-Calculus with Trig for STEM builds on the concepts taught in Algebra II. A student who takes Algebra II / Geometry / Pre-Calculus with Trig for STEM could find themselves at a disadvantage because the Algebra II concepts that Pre-Calculus builds on may take a substantial amount of review.
On-level vs. Honors
Algebraic skills will be extensively reviewed in the on-level Geometry course while developing the ability to think abstractly through the learning of geometric concepts. If you feel your student is ready for more challenging work and has strong algebraic skills, we recommend our Honors Geometry course.
If your student has completed Algebra 1 but you do not feel the concepts have been mastered, consider our 8-week summer course. The concepts are taught at a very quick pace, but it is an excellent way to fill in the gaps that your student might have.
If your student has completed Algebra I and has solidly mastered the concepts, it is an option to register for both Geometry and Algebra 2. This is a great option for a student who needs to complete multiple math credits in one year. Keep in mind, if your student chooses this option, there will be double the amount of math homework each week in order to be successful in both subjects.
Click below for course descriptions.
Geometry (on-level and honors)
Algebra 2
Why DO students traditionally take Algebra 1, then Geometry, and then Algebra 2? As a general rule, HSML strongly recommends that a student take Geometry prior to Algebra 2. Although it is certainly possible to have a successful year in Algebra 2 before taking Geometry, here are some thoughts to consider as you decide what is right for your student.
First, it is important to know that the material covered in Geometry does build on the concepts taught in Algebra 1. It is not a total break from Algebra - it is an extension. For example, Algebra 1 students are taught to manipulate linear equations and are introduced to graphing. Geometry students go much deeper into the graphing of linear equations. Geometry promotes abstract thinking which supports Algebra 2 problems. Then, in Algebra 2, students combine skills learned in Algebra 1 and Geometry and go even further into a topic. Geometry really does fit nicely between the Algebra courses.
Second, it is important to know that the material covered in Pre-Calculus with Trig for STEM builds on the concepts taught in Algebra II. A student who takes Algebra II / Geometry / Pre-Calculus with Trig for STEM could find themselves at a disadvantage because the Algebra II concepts that Pre-Calculus builds on may take a substantial amount of review.
On-level vs. Honors
Algebraic skills will be extensively reviewed in the on-level Geometry course while developing the ability to think abstractly through the learning of geometric concepts. If you feel your student is ready for more challenging work and has strong algebraic skills, we recommend our Honors Geometry course.
If your student has completed Algebra 1 but you do not feel the concepts have been mastered, consider our 8-week summer course. The concepts are taught at a very quick pace, but it is an excellent way to fill in the gaps that your student might have.
If your student has completed Algebra I and has solidly mastered the concepts, it is an option to register for both Geometry and Algebra 2. This is a great option for a student who needs to complete multiple math credits in one year. Keep in mind, if your student chooses this option, there will be double the amount of math homework each week in order to be successful in both subjects.
Click below for course descriptions.
Geometry (on-level and honors)
Algebra 2