Educational Programs at Orchard House
Mathematics
Math is the only educational program at Orchard House that separates classes based on learning style and achievement. Upon entering Orchard House, students complete a mathematics placement test designed by Saxon Publishers, Inc. Based on the placement test results, past report cards, standardized test scores, and conversations with new families, students are placed in the class that best matches their current needs. Two classes are offered at fifth and sixth grade, and three classes are offered at seventh and eighth grade for a total of ten classes. Class size ranges from two to sixteen students.
In addition, Math Lab classes are offered to students in all grades. Math Lab is designed to give girls exploratory opportunities in areas of mathematics that are interdisciplinary, real world connected, and hands on. The content of Math Lab is based on brain research, research on girls and math, and the direction math is taking in higher education and in the business world.
Math 65
This general math course is offered to students in grade five, and it is designed to build students' confidence and competence with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and word problems. Broad concepts are taught incrementally, and skills are practiced and reviewed throughout the year. During class students take notes, but they are also given a considerable amount of time to do math problems and ask questions.
Math 76
This general math course is offered to students in grades five and six, and it is designed to challenge students who possess a strong understanding of the basics. In addition to computations with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals, students learn about percents, ratios, probability, exponents, graphing, area, perimeter, order of operations, and a variety of other topics. Students are assigned a calculator and function guide to use for selected problems and assignments. During class students take notes, but they are also given a considerable amount of time to do math problems and ask questions.
Math 87
This general math / pre-algebra course is offered to students in grades six and seven, and it is designed to reinforce previously learned general math concepts and introduce a wide range of topics that prepare a student for algebra. Most students use the Math 87 textbook for six quarters. Students explore a variety of geometric concepts, such as measuring angles, constructing regular polygons, and understanding the qualities of different geometric figures. Problems from this textbook tend to be more detailed and multi-stepped, often requiring logical thinking and/or the application of several concepts.
Introduction to Algebra
This pre-algebra course is offered to students in grades seven and eight. Students in grade seven use the Math 87 textbook for the first two quarters, and they use Algebra Structure and Method for the second half of the year. Students in grade eight use the Algebra 1/2 textbook, which is the most advanced pre-algebra textbook in the Saxon series. (The Math 87 textbook is also a pre-algebra textbook.) The Algebra 1/2 textbook focuses on pre-algebra concepts as opposed to general math skills.
Algebra I
This course is offered to students in grades seven and eight, and it covers the full range of topics associated with first year algebra. Most students use Algebra Structure and Method for six quarters. Many topics are covered: solving equations, working with real numbers, performing operations with polynomials, factoring polynomials, working with algebraic fractions, applying fractions, working with different types of functions, solving systems of equations, solving inequalities, working with rational and irrational numbers, and using the quadratic formula. Algebraic concepts are often applied to “real world” situations. Students in grade seven complete this class in one academic year. Upon successful completion of Algebra I, students receive credit for high school Algebra I.
Geometry
This course is offered to students in grade eight, and it covers the full range of topics associated with geometry. After a brief review of algebra, students learn about theorems and postulates and their application in proofs involving congruent triangles and parallel lines. Students also construct a variety of geometric figures and explore their special properties. In addition, students apply algebraic concepts, concentrating on circles and finding the measures of angles and arcs formed by secants, chords, and tangents. Calculating the volume and surface area of geometric solids is also a focus. Upon successful completion of Geometry, students receive credit for high school Geometry.
