Math

The math program at Urban draws from both traditional and contemporary approaches and content. Our core classes are Math 1, 2, 3 and Functions. Our approach to teaching these courses is state-of-the-art and reflects the professional consensus as expressed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Principles and Standards. In content, the courses are close to the traditional Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2 and Precalculus sequence.

We navigate between multiple representations of concepts to reach different types of learners and to provide more depth of understanding to all. This includes graphical, hands-on, technological, geometric, numerical and symbolic approaches whenever possible. Foundational concepts (such as equations, functions and trigonometry) are investigated and practiced each year at increasing levels of challenge. On a number of topics, our curriculum goes much deeper than tradition requires, and many of our lessons serve as the backbone of a syllabus for the professional development of high school math teachers.

Our elective courses include unusual offerings for high school students. We offer an exceptionally broad selection of electives, including accessible introductory courses in Computer Science (three levels) and Statistics, as well as more advanced theoretical courses such as UAS Group Theory and UAS Infinity: Theory of Infinite Sets and Chaos Theory. This extraordinary range of classes makes it possible for students to be exposed to a wide range of mathematics and select courses that are appropriate to their interests, abilities and priorities.

Parisa Safa
Math Department Chair
415 593 2919 x568
​