MATH

Empowering students with the opportunities to develop mathematical/computer science skills to become skillful problem solvers in the world around them.

​“Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.” -Albert Einstein

Empower.​

Students discover problem-seeking and problem-solving strategies that empower them to solve the personal and professional challenges of their lives.  ​

Inquire.

Students use mathematics to support inquiry across all academic disciplines to deepen their analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Analyze.​

Students analyze real-world phenomenon through the use of computational algorithms beginning their freshman year and continuing throughout the courses they take while at Nipmuc.

2025-2026 Course offerings

Algebra 1                                               CPS/Honors             1 Credit                               Grade 9

Where in the world does “X” come from? This course inspires students by analyzing the places where we can find linear, exponential, and quadratic functions in our everyday lives. Examples of this include testing the strength of an object in order to predict the load capacity of a bridge, determining the costs of materials and analyzing profit to create a successful business, and modeling bacteria growth through probability. (The honors level course provides a more in-depth study of Algebra with faster pacing.)


Geometry                                                CPS                          1 Credit                               Grade 10

One element of mathematics that can be found in almost every aspect of our world is geometry. Whether it’s a man-made construction that involves the use of Pythagorean Theorem, or the symmetry of regular polygons that we see in road signs and other aesthetics in our environment, or parallel and perpendicular lines like the streets of major cities in the United States such as New York City, we have Geometry all around us and in this course we will learn to recognize these Geometric properties in our environment and how to use them to solve problems. This course is an integrated study of plane and coordinate geometric concepts of two- and three-dimensional figures. The students will use inductive and deductive reasoning and logic to prove geometric concepts, and will apply formulas to solve various geometric problems. We have a few culminating hands-on projects that include using indirect measurement and right triangle trigonometry to measure tall objects around the school campus. Students should successfully complete Algebra 1 prior to enrolling in this course.

Geometry                                                Honors                           1 Credit                               Grade 10

Geometric structures are fundamental to life from atoms to plants to our universe.  Did you know about the Golden Ratio and how this design is used in art and architecture?  Do you want to think logically? Geometry is an integrated study of plane and coordinate geometric concepts of two- and three-dimensional figures. Through simulations, students will learn some of the key geometric concepts.  Students will use logical reasoning to prove geometric concepts, and will apply formulas to solve various geometric problems. The pace is faster than the CPS course and the scope is more in-depth with the students being presented with more difficult and challenging problems, including, but not limited to, geometric proofs. We have a few culminating hands-on projects, one of which includes using indirect measurement and right triangle trigonometry to measure tall objects around the school campus. Students should successfully complete Algebra 1 Honors prior to enrolling in this course.
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Advanced Placement Economics                    AP                 1 Credit              Grades 10-12

​Are you ready to unlock the secrets of the United States economy and understand how it shapes our world? In this dynamic course, you’ll explore both AP Microeconomics and AP Macroeconomics, gaining the tools to analyze and debate key features of the American and global economies. Dive into topics like gross domestic product, the business cycle, international trade, and the impact of taxes and subsidies. Learn how monetary and fiscal policies influence the economy and discover how the banking system keeps everything running. On a personal level, uncover the principles of decision-making for households and businesses, explore market structures, and understand what drives consumer behavior. You’ll also evaluate markets through price, output, and surpluses while investigating how income is distributed and what happens when markets fail. Through engaging debates, case studies, and real-world examples, you'll tackle public policy solutions that could make economies more efficient. With a rigorous curriculum designed by the College Board, this course will challenge and prepare you for the AP Macroeconomics and Microeconomics exams in May. Students are expected to complete both Microeconomics and Macroeconomics and take both exams in May.  If you've completed Algebra 2 and want to gain insight into how the world works, this is your opportunity to master the markets!


​Economics Independent Study                                          Honors                1 Credit              Grade 12

Students who have successfully completed AP Microeconomics and AP Macroeconomics have the following options for an economics independent study.  Students interested in this option should see Mr. Messick to discuss the following options:
 
Students may tailor their independent study three ways:

Online economics course through the St. Louis Federal Reserve: Students will be enrolled in the St. Louis Federal Reserve Online Economics Course Program and take up to 22 economics modules online.  Students are enrolled for each module through the teacher’s online management tool. Students are monitored for progress, given feedback, and will completing module assessments.  Each student is monitored electronically through the program by the teacher and will receive a final module assessment grade upon completion. Each module is linked to the national education standards for economics, national education standards for finance, and common core history/social studies and technical subjects.

Elect to take AP Micro/AP Macro independent study: Students must have successfully completed either AP Micro or AP Macro with a grade of 85% or better and have demonstrated a strong subject interest, the ability to work independently with excellent time management and organizations skills.  A score of 4 or 5 is required on a previous AP Economics exam. Students are required to take the AP examination in May.
 
Student designed topic of interest in economics: Please consult teacher to design a specific program.


Algebra 2                                                                           CPS                 1 Credit                Grade 11

There is math in all real world problems.  In this class we will model projectile motion by launching a marshmallow from a catapult and then calculate the related quadratic equation;  we will also explore exponential growth and decay by researching a vehicle to purchase, then calculating loan interest and depreciation. Learning the associated math for each of these real world problems will allow you to be better prepared to work through those problems.  In this course students will extend topics introduced in Algebra 1 and learn to manipulate and apply more advanced functions and algorithms.  In addition to the above topics, other topics covered will include: Quadratic Functions, Graphing, Polynomials, Radical Functions, Exponential Functions, Logarithmic Functions and Rational Functions.  Students should successfully complete Algebra 1 and Geometry prior to enrolling in this course. 


Advanced Algebra 2                                                      Honors                  1 Credit                Grades 9-11

There is math in all real world problems.  In this class we will model a system of linear equations through calculating the optimal minimum wage; we will model projectile motion through shooting a marshmallow from a catapult and then calculate the related quadratic equation;  we will use systems of inequalities to solve a Cookie Bake Shop dilemma of determining how to achieve the highest profit; we will model polynomials through building a container with the maximum volume for the amount of material given; Students will develop exponential models to analyze human population growth and explore the impact this growth will have in areas around the world.  Learning the associated math for each of these real world problems will allow you to be better prepared to work through those problems.  In this course students will extend topics introduced in Algebra I Honors and learn to manipulate and apply more advanced functions and algorithms.  In addition to the above topics, other topics covered will include: Linear Functions and Relations, Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities, Quadratic Functions, Graphing, Polynomials, Radical Functions, Rational Exponents, Exponential Functions, Logarithmic Functions and Rational Functions.   Students should successfully complete Algebra 1 Honors prior to enrolling in this course.


Pre-Calculus                                                                        CPS                 1 Credit                Grades 11-12

Do you think Calculus is in your future?  This course will prepare you to take Calculus 1 in college.  The first part of the course covers trigonometry from right to oblique triangles and circles to sound waves, including unit circle trig, solving trig equations, trig identities, proofs and analyzing periodic functions.  The second part of the course provides graphic and algebraic exploration of exponential, logarithmic, and rational functions as they apply to financing a mortgage or auto loan, and future values of savings and retirement accounts.  Students should successfully complete Algebra 2 prior to enrolling in this course.


Pre-Calculus                                                                        Honors             1 Credit                Grades 11-12

Do you think Calculus is in your future, either in high school or college?  This course will prepare you to take Calculus A/B as a Nipmuc senior or Calculus 1 in college.  The first part of the course covers trigonometry from right to oblique triangles and circles to sound waves, including unit circle trig, solving trig equations, trig identities, proofs and analyzing periodic functions.  The second part of the course provides graphic and algebraic exploration of exponential, logarithmic, and rational functions as they apply to financing a mortgage or auto loan, and future values of savings and retirement accounts.  This honors level course covers material at a more rigorous pace than the CPS level course.  Students should successfully complete Algebra 2 and Geometry prior to enrolling in this course.


Calculus A with Pre-Calculus                                              Honors             1 Credit                Grades 11-12

Do you find yourself to be the first to complete math challenges?  Are you the one others go to when they need help in math? Do you have good study habits, strong math skills and a desire to learn math?  Are you self-motivated and not very challenged in Algebra 2 Honors? If you answered yes to these questions then maybe this course is for you!  This accelerated course assumes a solid knowledge of Algebra 2 Honors topics with the ability to recall mathematical concepts. In the first part of the course, you will explore trigonometry, polynomials and  exponential/logarithmic functions. The second part of this course exposes students to derivative based Calculus. Students who complete this course successfully will be prepared for AP Calculus BC. Students who struggle with Calculus concepts will be recommended to take AP Calculus AB.  Students should successfully complete Algebra 2 prior to enrolling in this course.


Finite Mathematics: Explorations and Applications             CPS             1 Credit               Grades 12

Are you ready to bring math to life? This course takes everything you've learned in math so far and applies it to exciting, real-world scenarios. Imagine planning astronomical voyages, using geometry to fly drones, or navigating the ins and outs of buying a car—including understanding loans and interest rates. You’ll even explore financial investments by playing a stock market game and learn how to lease an apartment and manage a personal budget like a pro!
And that’s not all—get hands-on with Google Sheets, mastering formatting and formulas to organize and analyze data. You'll also hone your teamwork and presentation skills, learning how to communicate mathematical concepts and make informed decisions with confidence.
If you’ve completed Algebra 2 and are ready to dive into a math class that’s anything but ordinary, this course is your next step. Teacher recommendation required. 


Statistics                                                                                  CPS/Honors         1 Credit             Grades 10-12

Statistics is much more than making graphs and calculating the mean, median, and mode.  Rather, it is using data to evaluate claims and make predictions. You will answer such questions as “Does drinking caffeine affect your pulse rate?” (experimental design); “How do the characteristics of an interviewer affect the responses to a survey?” (bias); and “Do the majority of couples kiss to the right?” (statistical inference).  This isn’t a typical math class. You don’t need to remember how to factor a polynomial, graph a sine curve, or prove that triangles are congruent. However, this doesn’t mean the class will be easy! In this course you will need good critical thinking and communication skills. You will NEVER ask: “When will we ever use this?”  Problems are almost always based on real-world studies in a variety of fields.  Statistics is required for many majors in college -  do some research for yourself and see. Students should successfully complete Algebra 2 prior to enrolling in this course. 


Advanced Placement Statistics                                                   AP             1 Credit             Grades 11-12

Statistics is much more than making graphs and calculating the mean, median, and mode.  Rather, it is using data to evaluate claims and make predictions. You will answer such questions as “Does drinking caffeine affect your pulse rate?” (experimental design); “How do the characteristics of an interviewer affect the responses to a survey?” (bias); and “Do the majority of couples kiss to the right?” (statistical inference).  This isn’t a typical math class. You don’t need to remember how to factor a polynomial, graph a sine curve, or prove that triangles are congruent. However, this doesn’t mean the class will be easy! In this fast-paced AP course you will need good critical thinking and communication skills. You will NEVER ask: “When will we ever use this?”  Problems are almost always based on real-world studies in a variety of fields.  Statistics is required for many majors in college do some research for yourself and see.  Curriculum, pacing and rigor will follow the College Board guidelines.  Students must take the Advanced Placement exam in May in order to receive AP credit for the course.  Students should successfully complete Algebra 2 prior to enrolling in this course.


Advanced Placement Calculus AB                                             AP             1 Credit                  Grade 12

Learn to model aspects of the physical world through the language of math.  In this class we will go on the same journey that Newton and Leibniz undertook in the discovery of calculus.  The AP Calculus course is designed to prepare the student to pursue calculus at a higher level in college as well as prepare the students for the AP Calculus AB Exam. The preparation includes learning the mathematical concepts and preparing for the difficulty level and style of the AP Calculus AB Exam. Students will work in a variety of formats that will challenge their ability to apply and explain the concepts in addition to being able to compute answers. The quizzes, tests, and review sessions at the end of the course are designed to assess the student’s knowledge in a manner consistent with the AP Exam.   Curriculum, pacing and rigor will follow the College Board guidelines.  Students must take the Advanced Placement exam in May in order to receive AP credit for the course.  Students should successfully complete Pre-Calculus Honors or Calculus A with Pre-Calculus prior to enrolling in this course.


Advanced Placement  Calculus BC                                          AP               1 Credit                   Grade 12

Explore the world of functions through the exploration of series and sequences. Learn how to analyze equations in greater depth than you’ve ever attempted before!   The AP Calculus BC course is designed for students who have already begun the study of Calculus to continue to prepare the student to pursue calculus at the higher level in college as well as prepare the students for the AP Calculus BC Exam.  The preparation includes learning the mathematical concepts and preparing for the difficulty level and style of the Calculus BC Exam. Students will work in a variety of formats that will challenge their ability to apply and explain the concepts in addition to being able to compute answers.  The course assessments are designed to be consistent with the level of the AP Exam.  Curriculum, pacing and rigor will follow the College Board guidelines.  Students must take the Advanced Placement exam in May in order to receive AP credit for the course.  Students should successfully complete Calculus A with Pre-Calculus prior to enrolling in this course.
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