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Welcome to the Math and Computer Science Department!
Welcome to the PHS Math Department. We are excited to have you join us so we can discover the world of mathematics and beyond together. Almost all of our classes can be found on the 2nd floor where you will find our classroom doors are always open and a very welcoming environment exists. You will spend a fair amount of time with us over the next several years and we will do everything we can to help you succeed and grow as a student and learner in general as well as sharpening your math and critical thinking skills along the way.
Extra Opportunities in Math
Things are always happening in the math department and especially in the math hallway on the 2nd floor. You will be able to find math help from your teacher by simply asking and coordinating a time to work with them. Most times extra help only takes 10 or 15 minutes to clear up a few questions so you can proceed forward in your learning. However you will also find a Math Help Centre that is available on a drop in basis every day. A schedule will be posted and visible every semester so you know exactly where to go during your nutrition break to find the help you need. This will open your world to new teachers and new students who are equally committed to their own success and learning.
You will also find various math and computing contests that you can participate in. Information will be shared via School Day, your grade google classroom and morning announcements. Contact Mrs. Kingston in Room 234, your own Math teacher, or any Math teacher to find out more about these contests.
Resources for preparing for the contests can be found on the University of Waterloo CEMC website. All students are also invited to join the Math Club and/or Computer Science Club where students challenge their problem solving skills and prepare for contests.
| Contest | Contest Dates: |
| Beaver Computing Challenge | November |
| Canadian Intermediate/Senior Mathematics Contest | November |
| Canadian Computing Competition | February |
| Pascal, Cayley, Fermat (expectation of Enhanced program) | February |
| Euclid (gr. 12 contest) | April |
| Fryer, Galois, Hypatia (gr. 9, 10, 11) | April |
| Canadian Team Mathematics Contest (if there is enough interest) | April |
Student FAQs
Q: How do I know what math courses to take?
A:You will work with your math teacher and your guidance counselor to come up with a plan for success. There are plenty of resources to help you decide your path through high school math.
Q: Is math hard?
A: We will work hard with you so you can be proud of your learning. We also know that if you simply follow the advice of your teacher on how to approach each course then we are very confident that you will not only be successful but you will be proud of learning.
Q: How many math courses do I need to graduate?
A: The easy answer is that you need 3 math credits. A large number of students take 4 and even up to 6 math credits as it opens so many doors as you move into further learning opportunities after high school.
Parent FAQs
Q: What do you teach in math?
A: If you want content-specific answers then you should check out these resources.
Ontario Mathematics Curriculum Gr 9 – 12
But our job is more than curriculum. Math provides an opportunity for students to further develop their critical thinking and questioning skills. The content is important but for many it isn’t the most important feature of being a student in math. Developing logical thinking and exploring new ideas are not only enhanced in a math class but allow students to become better learners in all parts of their education.
Q: How many math courses does my child need to graduate?
A: Your child needs at least 3 credits to fulfill the expectations to graduate. A large majority take up to 6 credits simply because so many post secondary programs require math as a prerequisite. Your child’s math teachers and guidance counselors can help you with those choices as your child moves forward in high school.
Q: My child needs extra help but can’t stay late after school. What are the options?
A: The good news is that your child’s teacher will often be available at Lunch for extra help and it usually only takes a few minutes. However we have a drop in Math Help Centre that is open every Lunch hour. A student can drop in and stay for as long as they want with no obligation to stay for any period of time. This allows students to get help as soon as it becomes necessary even if the teacher isn’t available.
Department Staff
Mr. Brenneman jesse_brenneman@wrdsb.ca
Mr. Dear brandon_dear@wrdsb.ca
Ms. Fortney suzette_fortney@wrdsb.ca
Ms. Kingston laura_kingston@wrdsb.ca – Department Head
Mr. McKinley Evans scott_mckinleyevans@wrdsb.ca
Ms. Richmire talia_richmire@wrdsb.ca
Ms. Sahajpal bhavna_sahajpal@wrdsb.ca
Ms. Weir kniki_weir@wrdsb.ca
Math Courses and curriculum documents
MTH1WI Mathematics
MPM2DI Principles of Mathematics
MCR3UI Functions, MCF3MI Functions & Applications, MBF3CI Foundations for College Mathematics
MEL3EI, MEL4EI Mathematics for Work & Everyday Life
MAP4CI Foundations for College Mathematics, MCT4CI Mathematics for College Technology
MDM4UI Data Management, MHF4UI Advanced Functions, MCV4UI Calculus and Vectors
Computer Sciences Courses and curriculum documents
ICD2OI Digital Technology and Innovations in the Changing World
ICS3CI Introduction to Computer Programming
ICS4CI Computer Programming
ICS3UI Introduction to Computer Science
ICS4UI Computer Science
