9-12 Curriculum Detail

Mathematics

  • ACCELERATED ALGEBRA

    This is the first course in the four-year sequence that takes students through first-semester college calculus. The course is designed for students who have had some study in Algebra 1 but are not yet ready for the rigors of the Honors course. The curriculum covers the traditional Algebra 1 syllabus through quadratics and provides additional topics of study and more challenging problem sets. Students' progress toward mastery of the concepts is measured through their test scores, homework, note taking, semester exams, and class participation. Prerequisite: Some study of Algebra 1, teacher recommendation, and appropriate performance on the placement test given the preceding spring. Text: Beginning Algebra, Lial, Hornsby, McGinnis. Calculator requirement: scientific calculator. (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • ACCELERATED GEOMETRY & TRIG

    The curriculum includes all the traditional topics in the geometry canon but with more challenging proofs and extension problems. This course also undertakes an extensive exploration of trigonometry. Topics include the trigonometry of right triangles, the laws of cosines and sines, the unit circle, and applications. Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.
    Prerequisites: Accelerated or Honors Algebra 2 and teacher recommendation. (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • ACCELERATED MATH 3

    This is the third course in the integrated curriculum sequence that typically culminates in AP Calculus AB.  Topics include linear functions, polynomial functions, rational exponents, radical functions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, rational functions, sequences, series, trigonometric functions, trigonometric identities, data analysis, and statistics.  While not designated Advanced Placement, this course meets standards of performance commensurate with an AP-level course.  Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.
    Prerequisites: Math 2, Accelerated or Honors Math 2 and teacher recommendation.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • ACCELERATED PRE-CALCULUS

    This is the fourth course in the integrated curriculum sequence that typically culminates in AP Calculus AB.  Topics include those covered in the latter half of second-year algebra with extensive coverage of functions, trigonometry, analytic geometry, and probability.  Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.
    Prerequisites:  Accelerated Math 3 and teacher recommendation.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • ALGEBRA 1

    Math 1 is a traditional Algebra course that takes students through the fundamentals of Algebra including: definitions, properties, order of operations, factoring quadratic equations, graphing, applications, systems of linear equations, exponents, and radical and rational expressions. Students' progress toward master of the concepts is measured through their test scores, homework, note taking, and class participation. Prerequisite: Completion of 8th grade math course. Text: Algebra 1, Foerster. Calculator requirement: scientific calculator. (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • ALGEBRA 2

    This course begins with a review of first-year algebra, focusing on equations, inequalities, and functions. Students then study systems of linear equations, matrices, quadratic functions, polynomials, powers and radical expressions, exponential and logarithmic functions, rational equations, conic sections, and an introduction to trigonometry. Learning to use a graphing calculator is an integral part of the course. Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, and semester exams. Prerequisites: Math 1 and Math 2. Text: Algebra 2, Larson, Boswell, Kanold, and Stiff. Calculator requirement: TI 83/TI 83 Plus or TI 84/TI 84 Plus. (The TI 85/TI 86 calculators do not support the applications needed for this course.) (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • ALGEBRA 2 HONORS

    This is the first course in the four-year sequence that takes students through first-year college calculus. It starts with the algebra of straight line graphs. The material covered consists of most topics of second-year algebra and includes an introduction to trigonometry. Evaluation is by means of quizzes, tests, and exams. Prerequisite: One year of algebra and successful performance on the placement test given the preceding spring. Text: Algebra and Trigonometry, Foerster. Calculator requirement: TI 83/TI 83 Plus or TI 84/TI 84 Plus. (The TI 85/TI 86 calculators do not support the applications needed for this course.) (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • AP CALCULUS AB

    The course covers the material listed in the College Board syllabus for AP Calculus AB.  It consists of a study of limits, differentiation, integration, differential equations, and applications.  Satisfactory performance on the AP exam (AB) may earn one semester of college credit.  Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.  Students who enroll in AP courses agree to take the AP examination offered in May.
    Prerequisites: Honors Math 3, Accelerated Pre-Calculus, or teacher recommendation.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • AP CALCULUS BC

    The course covers the material listed in the College Board syllabus for AP Calculus BC.  It consists of a study of limits, differentiation, integration, differential equations, infinite series, polar equations, parametric equations, vectors, and applications. Satisfactory performance on the AP exam (BC) may earn two semesters of college credit.  Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.  Students who enroll in AP courses agree to take the AP examination offered in May.
    Prerequisites: AP Calculus AB, a score of 4 or 5 on the AP exam, and teacher recommendation.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • AP COMPUTER SCIENCE

    This class is a year-long course in computer programming.  It focuses on object-oriented programming using the Java programming language.  Topics covered include class design, decision structures, repetition, recursion, arrays, and inheritance.  Students will be introduced to the principles of efficient algorithm construction and data structures.  Special topics of this course may include advanced data structures, measuring algorithm efficiency, cryptography and cryptanalysis, network applications programming, three-dimensional graphics, and machine learning.  Evaluation is based on tests, programming assignments, and homework exercises.  Students who enroll in AP courses agree to take the AP examination offered in May.
    Prerequisites: This class will be open to sophomores, juniors and seniors who have completed Honors Math 2, Accelerated Math 3, or Honors Math 3.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • CALCULUS

    Topics in this course include limits, derivatives, integrals and their applications. Review of second-year algebra and pre-calculus topics such as trigonometry, logarithms, and functions is included where appropriate. Throughout the course, the emphasis is on using the derivative to model and analyze phenomena in the real world. Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.
    Prerequisites: Algebra 2 or Accelerated Pre-Calculus and teacher recommendation.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • CALCULUS & STATISTICS

    The first semester of this course will focus on the two major concepts in calculus, the derivative and the integral, and their applications.  Emphasis will be on using technology to explore the derivative and the integral to model and analyze phenomena in the real world.
     
    During the second semester, students will develop statistical literacy through hands-on activities which will use technology to conduct simulations to focus on conceptual understanding of the principals of statistics.  Topics include graphical interpretation of categorical and numerical data, experimental design, normal distributions, confidence intervals, correlation, least squares regression, multiple regression, nonlinear regression, and probability.  Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.
    Prerequisites:  Pre-calculus
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • CALCULUS BC ADVANCED PLACEMENT

    This is the final course in the four-year sequence that takes students through first-year college calculus. The course covers the material of the AB course and goes beyond it to differential equations, infinite series, and other topics, with an emphasis on theory. Satisfactory performance on the Advanced Placement exam (BC) may earn two semesters of college credit. Evaluation is by means of quizzes, tests and exams. Admission is by departmental recommendation only. Prerequisite: Math 3H. Text: Calculus: Graphical, Numerical, Algebraic, Finney, Demana, Waits, Kennedy. Calculator requirement: TI 83/TI 83 Plus or TI 84/TI 84 Plus. (The TI 85/TI 86 calculators do not support the applications needed for this course.) (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • COMPUTER ADVANCED PLACEMENT

    This course will present material typically covered in a one-year introductory computer course at the college level. Starting in 2003-2004, the course's language will be Java. Students will learn to code fluently in Java, to design object-oriented programs, to use classic data structures and algorithms, and to understand a large case study in the target language. Completion of BASIC PROGRAMMING or an equivalent amount of programming experience (as determined by the instructor) is prerequisite. Evaluation is based on tests, programming assignments, and some homework exercises. Students must take the Advanced Placement Examination in May. Prerequisite: BASIC PROGRAMMING or permission of the instructor. Text: Java, An Introduction to Computer Science and Programming, Savitch, Java Methods AB, Litvin and Litvin. (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • GEOMETRY

    In this course students are introduced to the theorems of geometry and learn how to use them to write logical arguments called proofs. Topics studied include: inductive and deductive reasoning, area, volume, the Pythagorean Theorem, similarity, congruence, and the properties of lines, angles, triangle, polygons, circles and geometric solids. In addition students will use a compass and protractor to construct geometric figures and as tools to develop geometric concepts. Prerequisite: Math 1. Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, and semester exams. Text: Geometry, Jacobs. Calculator requirement: scientific calculator. (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • GEOMETRY ACCELERATED

    This is the second course in the four-year sequence that takes students through first semester college calculus. This proof based course is designed for students who are prepared for a more rigorous and expansive geometry experience. The curriculum will include all the traditional topics in the geometry canon but with more challenging proofs and extension problems. Evaluation is by means of quizzes, tests and exams. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Math 1A and the recommendation of the teacher; or successful completion of Math 1H; or previous geometry experience. Texts: Geometry, Harold R. Jacobs and A course in Geometry, Weeks and Adkins. Calculator requirement: scientific calculator. (Year Course- 1 credit)

  • GEOMETRY HONORS

    This is the second course in the four-year sequence that takes students through first-year college calculus. It is a course in geometries: plane, solid, and analytic. Evaluation is by means of quizzes, tests, and exams. Admission is by departmental approval only. Texts: Geometry, Harold R. Jacobs and Course in Geometry Plane and Solid, Weeks and Adkins. Calculator requirement: TI 83/TI 83 Plus or TI 84/TI 84 Plus. (The TI 85/TI 86 calculators do not support the applications needed for this course.) (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • HONORS GEOMETRY & TRIG

    This proof-based course is designed for students who are prepared for a more rigorous and expansive geometry experience. This course explores Euclidean, non-Euclidean, solid, and analytic geometries. The curriculum includes all the traditional topics in the geometry canon but with more challenging proofs and explorations. This course also undertakes an extensive exploration of trigonometry. Topics include the trigonometry of right triangles, the law of cosines, the law of sines, the unit circle, and applications. Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.
    Prerequisites: Honors Algebra 2 and Trigonometry and teacher recommendation. (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • HONORS MATH 3

    This is the third course in the integrated curriculum sequence that typically culminates in AP Calculus BC.  Topics include linear functions, polynomial functions, rational exponents, radical functions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, rational functions, sequences, series, trigonometric functions, trigonometric identities, data analysis, and statistics.  While not designated Advanced Placement, this course meets standards of performance commensurate with an AP-level course . Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams. 
    Prerequisites: Accelerated or Honors Math 2 and teacher recommendation.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • HONORS PRE-CALCULUS

    Topics in this course include sequences and series, mathematical induction, functions, trigonometry, analytic geometry, and probability. In addition, students begin to study topics in first-semester calculus including limits, continuity, and the derivative. Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.
    Prerequisites: Honors Algebra 2 and Trigonometry, Honors Geometry, and teacher recommendation. (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • INTRODUCTORY CALCULUS

    The course is designed for students who have completed Math 3 or Math 3a in their junior year and who plan to continue in college with the traditional calculus sequence. A rigorous pre-calculus syllabus together with a statistics unit will be studied. Evaluation is by means of quizzes, tests, and exams. Text: Precalculus with Trigonometry, Concepts and Applications, Foerster. Calculator requirement: TI 83/TI 83 Plus or TI 84/TI 84 Plus. (The TI 85/TI 86 calculators do not support the applications needed for this course.) (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • MATH 3

    This is the third course in the integrated curriculum sequence that typically culminates in Calculus and Statistics.  Topics include quadrilaterals, similarity, right triangles, trigonometry, linear functions, transformations, systems of equations and inequalities, quadratics, transformations, polynomial functions, circles, circumference, area, volume, rational exponents, and radical functions.  Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.
    Prerequisites: Math 2.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • MULTIVARIATE CALCULUS and LINEAR ALGEBRA

    This course studies the theory and applications of calculus as it applies to functions and equations of two or more variables. The course begins with a study of vectors, lines, planes, curves and surfaces in R3, using the representation of equations and functions in Cartesian, cylindrical and spherical forms. The course moves on to topics and applications related to the derivative such as partial derivatives, directional derivatives, the gradient, optimization and critical point analysis including the method of Lagrange multipliers. Next, we study topics of integration including multiple integrals, integration over curves and surfaces, divergence and curl of vector fields, and the theorems of Green, Stokes, and divergence. In the second semester, we will study matrices, systems of linear equations, the vector space Rn, orthogonalization, least squares, and matrix factorizations. The software programs MATLAB is used to explore topics in the course. 
    Prerequisites: AP Calculus BC and teacher recommendation. 
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • POST-AP DATA STRUCTURES

    This class is a post-AP course in Computer Science.  It is a more formal and in-depth study of algorithms, data structures, and data abstraction.  The use of recursive data structures and dynamically allocated structures are fundamental to this class.  More advanced methods of program testing and debugging are also studied. In this class, we will study the following data structures: stacks, queues, priority queues, heaps, maps, sets, linked lists, trees, and hashtables.  Searching and sorting methods are studied in depth, with a special focus on Big O analysis of algorithms.  Other topics covered include: graphics, GUI interfaces, file I/O, and using collections and iterators.  Evaluation is based on tests, programming assignments, and homework exercises.
    Prerequisites: AP Computer Science, a score of 4 or 5 on the AP exam, and teacher recommendation.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • POST-AP MACHINE LEARNING & A.I.

    This full-year course serves as an introduction to the topics of machine learning, artificial intelligence and big data.  We will cover both the theory and practice of machine learning including supervised vs. unsupervised learning; neural networks; support vector machines; and reinforcement learning.  We will build and discuss applications using machine learning that perform trend-line predictions, image recognition, database mining, text comprehension,  and medical informatics.  Additional topics covered include the technologies behind generative artificial intelligences like ChatGPT.  Throughout the course, we also discuss the social ramifications and ethics of machine learning and privacy issues.  
    Prerequisites: Post-AP Data Structures or permission of the instructor.  A strong background in math is also required (co-enrollment in AP Calculus or post-AP math).  
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • PRE-CALCULUS

    This is the fourth course in the integrated curriculum sequence that typically culminates in Calculus and Statistics.  Topics in this course include systems of linear equations, quadratic functions, polynomials, powers and radical expressions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and rational equations.  This course also undertakes an extensive exploration of trigonometry.  Topics include the trigonometry of right triangles, the law of cosines, the law of sines, the unit circle, and graphs of the six trigonometric functions.  Throughout the course, students review skills from first-year algebra as they apply to topics covered here.  Emphasis is placed on using functions to model and analyze phenomena in the real world.  Evaluation is by means of homework sets, quizzes, tests, projects, and semester exams.
    Prerequisites: Math 3.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • PRE-CALCULUS AB (ACCELERATED)

    This is the third course in the four-year sequence that takes students through first-semester college calculus. It is a course for juniors with above-average mathematics ability who are not in the Honors program. Topics include those covered in Mathematics 3 with extensive coverage of trigonometry and analytic geometry. Evaluation is by means of quizzes, tests, and exams. Prerequisite: Math 2A and the recommendation of the teacher, Math 2H, or a year grade of 85 or above in both Math 1 and Math 2. Text: Algebra and Trigonometry with Analytic Geometry, Swokowski. Calculator requirement: TI 83/TI 83 Plus or TI 84/TI 84 Plus. (The TI 85/TI 86 calculators do not support the applications needed for this course.) (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • PRE-CALCULUS BC (HONORS)

    This is the third course in the four-year sequence that takes students through first-year college calculus. The course includes the study of series and sequences, mathematical induction, functions, trigonometry, analytic geometry, problem solving, limits, continuity, and calculus through rules of differentiation. Evaluation is by means of quizzes, tests, and exams. Admission is by departmental approval only. Texts: Algebra and Trigonometry with Analytic Geometry, Swokowski, and The Calculus 7 of a Single Variable, Leithold. Calculator requirement: TI 83/TI 83 Plus or TI 84/TI 84 Plus. (The TI 85/TI 86 calculators do not support the applications needed for this course.) (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • STATISTICS

    In this course, students will develop statistical literacy using real data from sports. Students will use hands-on activities and technology to conduct simulations to focus on conceptual understanding of the principals of statistics. Topics include graphical interpretation of categorical and numerical data, experimental design, normal distributions, confidence intervals, correlation, least squares regression, multiple regression, nonlinear regression, and probability. Students who have completed AP Statistics (or will complete it during their senior year) may not elect this course. Students who elect to take Calculus may also elect Statistics as a second math course.
    Prerequisites: Algebra 2 and teacher recommendation.
    (Year Course - 1 credit)

  • STATISTICS ADVANCED PLACEMENT

    The first semester and part of the second semester of the course will prepare the students for the AP Statistics examination to be taken in May. Students enrolled in the course will be expected to take this examination. The remainder of the course will investigate topics in discrete mathematics such as graph theory, game theory, and cryptology. Class will be open to qualified sophomore, junior and senior students who have at least a B average in Math IH, Math 2H, Math 3A, or Math 3H. Interested students must receive the approval of the Math Department Chair before registering for this course. Please note that this course is not intended to replace the traditional precalculus/calculus sequence. Calculator requirement: TI 83/TI 83 Plus or TI 84/TI 84 Plus. (Year Course - 1 credit)

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Unlike Other Private High Schools in Cleveland, Ohio

As one of the leading private high schools in Cleveland, Ohio, University School’s Upper School program (grades 9-12) is designed to promote each student's academic and personal growth. Led by a talented and committed faculty, students pursue traditional liberal arts studies within an innovative educational framework.
 
At US, students thrive in a community where they develop their academic, athletic and artistic talents.  They unleash their intellectual curiosity and leadership talents. They sharpen their ability to think deeply, to study effectively, and to express themselves clearly. With a wide range of electives, independent study opportunities, advanced placement, and college-level courses, students are superbly prepared for college and beyond.
 
It is precisely the depth and quality of our program that gives US boys an unparalleled advantage in today’s highly competitive climate of college admissions. One hundred percent of US graduates matriculate to four-year colleges. Many are represented at the most rigorous institutions in the nation. We are proud of this record, but we are most proud of the fact that our graduates are thoughtful, confident, and well-rounded young men.
 
US faculty members are carefully selected for their ability to communicate, connect and inspire.  They are a continuing source of guidance and friendship for many students long after they have graduated from the school. These highly qualified, creative educators, most of whom hold advanced degrees, are deeply committed to their students, giving their time and attention to each student’s academic and emotional life. Our teachers are coaches, advisors and mentors who care deeply about each boy’s interests and personal concerns, as well as his academic work.
 
We are unlike any of the other private high schools in Cleveland, Ohio. The new academic, arts, and music spaces at the Hunting Valley campus feature spacious classrooms and interactive technology. Our stunning 221-acre campus is a treasured outdoor classroom where students raise native brook trout, tap maple trees for syrup, and operate the sugarhouse. Please contact us today to schedule a visit and see for yourself how US can make a difference in your son’s life!

Meet Our Faculty

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    Mitchell Strachan
    Math Chairperson, Senior Class Dean, Math Teacher
    216-831-2200 x7474
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    Adam Atwell
    Math Teacher, Tennis Coach
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    Andrew Martin
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    Susan McClellon
    Scheduler, Registrar, Math Teacher
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    Paul Moody
    Head of Goodwillie House, Math Teacher, Physics Teacher, Director of Strnad Fellowships in Creativity
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    Justin Passov
    Math Teacher, Science Teacher, Student Event Coordinator
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    Brian Perry
    History Teacher, Math Teacher, Swimming & Diving Coach
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    Gabriel Richmond
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  • Photo of Mostafa Rousta
    Mostafa Rousta
    Math Teacher, Anderson Scholars in Science Advisor
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    Peter Sweeney
    Computer Science Teacher, Klein Chairholder in Computer Science, Robotics Advisor
    216-831-2200 x7492

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