Level E - Math & Problem Solving

Our new Level E Math & Problem Solving program typically targets students in Grades 8 through 11. This level provides an amalgamation of high-school algebra and geometry and addresses, in depth, all four steps of problem solving by applying these to quite complex and difficult problems.  Students think abstractly, collaborate with others, persevere, and approach problems from different perspectives.

Lessons include interactive puzzles, brain teasers, logic problems, and competitions to help students stay sharp, discover new strategies, and develop mathematical thinking through numerous approaches.

Level E instruction includes, but is not limited to:

Math

• Advanced rational and irrational numbers
• Applying and understanding the real number system
• Simplifying monomials and polynomials
• Factoring and simplifying equations
• Solving linear equations and graphs
• Understanding quadratics; graphs, equations, factors, solutions
• Absolute value graphs and equations
• Square root, cube root and piecewise functions
• Arithmetic and geometric sequences and functions
• Geometric theorems: lines and angles
• Parallelogram and triangle theorems
• Trigonometric ratios
• Circle theorems
• Transformations on the coordinate plane
  

Strategy games & logic puzzles

• Logic puzzles and riddles
• Crack the code
• Visual puzzles and optical illusions
• Mathematical and geometric theorems
• Competitions
• History of mathematics and famous mathematicians
• Modeling
• Presentations
  

Managing Stress and Test Anxiety

• Time management
• Planning and organization
• Focusing techniques
• Mindfulness
  

Logic and Problem-Solving Strategies

• Application and understanding of the problem-solving techniques
  • Modeling problems and simplifying them
  • Forward solving strategies
  • Backwards solving strategies
  • Venn diagrams
  • Logical trees
  • Logical charts
  • Organized / systematic list
  • Problems on lowest common multiple
• Problem decomposition
• Encryption and decoding
• Geometric theorems
• Geometric constructions
• Developing equations and using functions
• Using and applying patterns
  

Prerequisite for Level E: Knowledge of rational numbers, basic geometry, elementary algebra, and problem-solving strategies and techniques from Level D; OR successful completion of interview (for new students).