2 December 2012
CALCULUS CD: Poly just may get a new math class.
By Tyler Demshki, Staff writer
Poly is a respectable school for mathematics; our higher level calculus and statistics classes are successful, and we perform well in the competitive California Math League. However, there is a possibility for an opportunity that would put us further ahead of the curve: a Calculus CD class.
The faculty at Poly has been considering such a class for roughly six years. While the class would be a great boon to any student looking into math-related careers (such as engineering), there are issues to consider. One large concern is getting students to enroll in the class, which is just as much a matter of pure logistics as it is desire. First of all, this class would not be an AP course, as there is no Calculus CD AP test. Furthermore, the class might not even be an honors or weighted class. This is a potential issue to students concerned about their GPA. Scheduling itself is also an issue. If this class were to exist, what period would it occupy? These conflicts would alienate the already limited number of students who are interested in taking the course.
While some school systems in other states have successfully integrated this higher level course into their curriculum, Riverside Unified School District has not. This means that Poly, if it decided to adopt this course, would be the first RUSD school to have a Calculus CD class–a true honor indeed. Another additional possibility is to open this class to other high schools in RUSD with limited enrollment. This would bring a district-wide improvement, arming students with useful knowledge for college.
Though creating and maintaining this new calculus class would be difficult, it would ultimately be beneficial. It would be a specialized class that would give a boost to students who wish to go into math-oriented careers. Also, while this course may seem like a pipe dream considering how long it has been debated over, a new development does give it some hope. A teacher at Poly, Eric Oravets, has recently completed a course outline for this class upon the request of Principal Wade Coe. So, for all of you upcoming engineers, keep a close eye on your class registration forms for next year. It’s hardly a guarantee, but they just might have a new calculus class.
Photo by Olivia Childers/ The Poly Spotlight