Mathematics Department

Welcome to the mathematics department! Enjoy exploring our page and learning more about math at South Lake!

Mathematics Standards

California State Standards
Common Core Standards

Course Descriptions

Introduction to Pre-Algebra (7th grade only)

This course is the first year of a two year program designed to prepare students for high school Algebra I in the 9th grade. Focus is on conceptual understanding of algebraic topics through the development of critical mathematical thinking. Students will analyze and solve complex problems in realistic situations and learn to communicate mathematically while continuing to work on standards-based skills. Students that successfully complete the two-year program are placed into Algebra I in the 9th grade.

Pre-Algebra (7th grade only)

Pre-Algebra is an accelerated course offered to students in preparation for taking Algebra I in 8th grade. Placement in Pre-Algebra is determined by district placement and standardized tests along with a sixth grade teacher recommendation. Students that successfully complete Pre-Algebra will be placed into the high school equivalent course, Algebra I, in 8th grade with the intent of the student completing a four-year honors sequence of mathematics in high school.

Transitional Algebra (8th grade only)

Transitional Algebra is the second year of a two year program designed to prepare students for high school Algebra I in the 9th grade. This course focuses on developing a conceptual understanding of algebra topics through critical thinking, the analysis and solving of complex problems in realistic situations and mathematical communication. Students will also continue to work on maintaining standards-based skills.

Algebra I

Algebra I is a high school course, which is taught at an honors level for 8th grade students. It fulfills the high school requirement for Algebra I. Placement into Algebra is determined by Pre Algebra teacher recommendations based upon grades, work habits, problem solving skills, standards-based testing and placement testing. Students that successfully complete Algebra I will move onto Honors Geometry in the 9th grade--with the intent of the student continuing their four-year honors sequence of mathematics in high school.

Honors Geometry

South Lake students who have successfully completed Algebra I in the seventh grade will be enrolled in Honors Geometry in 8th grade. This course is designed for students who demonstrate a need for a more rigorous approach to the objectives outlined in the California State Content Standards. Honors Geometry students study geometry in greater depth and detail, with a strong emphasis in proofs, mathematical language and reasoning, and the application of mathematical concepts. Strong algebra skills are imperative. It is expected that a student will continue their four-year honors sequence of mathematics in high school through honors level Calculus.

Course Materials

Holt Online Math Textbook
CGP Online Math Textbook

Cool Links for Math

Cool Math Games - fun games that also help you with your math skillz
Math TV - problem-solving with a twist
Create a Graph - make your own graphs
Interactivate - explore advanced math concepts

Mathematics Faculty

Maureen Leong (Alg. & Math Lab), Department Chair
Shirley Prasad (PreAlg. & Intro to PreAlg.)
Roseanna Zimmer (PreAlg., Intro to PreAlg., & TransAlg.)
Bryan Kinney (Geo., TransAlg., & Alg. I)
Charity Siebert (Directed Math)