Mathematics,  Accounting, Computer Science

All people can learn mathematics and develop mathematical power. The mathematics department offers a curriculum with a common core of mathematical topics and a range of course offerings that provide all students access to meaningful and rigorous courses of study. Course content is aligned with the Massachusetts Mathematics Curriculum Frameworks and every effort is made to help prepare for MCAS testing. All students are required to pass three years of high school mathematics. Courses fall under four categories: 1) Advanced Placement, 2) Accelerated, 3) College and 4) Standard.

 Our Interactive Math Program (IMP) is going into its ninth year at South Hadley High School. IMP is an option which may be taken in place of the traditional Algebra-Geometry-Pre Calculus sequence. IMP is a four-year, college preparatory curriculum designed to challenge motivated students at all levels of mathematical ability.  IMP is different from traditionally structured mathematics courses. Each unit is built around a central problem, thereby developing and connecting a variety of mathematical topics to solve the problem. Abstract mathematical concepts are developed in the process of understanding concrete problems. Students are the center of activity as they solve problems of the day, problems of the week, write about their mathematical thinking, and make oral presentations to classmates. Emphasizing creative thinking, communication and teamwork, IMP is a rigorous and demanding alternative to traditional classes. An option to do additional course work to earn accelerated credit will be available in IMP Two, Three, and Four.

 All courses will incorporate graphing calculator technology into instruction. Be advised that some calculators are available for use in the math department. However, to benefit most, students need to purchase their own graphing calculator to use in school and at home while completing assignments. We recommend the Texas Instruments TI-83 Plus Graphing Calculator.