Students take Applications of Advanced Mathematics [AAM] after Algebra 2 to prepare for AP Statistics the following year, possibly to avoid taking Calculus in high school. The course covers topics like venn diagrams, patterns, weighted averages, exponential and linear growth, domain, scientific notation and unit conversion.
There is a strong emphasis on the use of technology as a tool to solve complex problems and see “the why” behind the math, according to math teacher Katie Collins. Second semester involves many problems regarding data collection and modeling real world data. Senior Ila Menon took the course to avoid taking Pre-Calculus as a refresher of her previous math classes.
“I really enjoy [AAM],” Menon said. “It’s a class that has a mix of different types of math styles. It’s based on real life stuff. We’re not focusing on one type of math, so it’s more helpful.”
In Menon’s class, students learn the material in the unit for the first half of class and work on problems during the second half, in which they are provided the answers to the problems.
“So it’s not like you have to strain yourself if you don’t know how to do it,” Menon said. “It’s a really relaxed environment. I would recommend it because it’s not a stressful class, but you are learning a lot and there are tests and quizzes. But it’s not that difficult to take in and it’s a very useful class I believe.”