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Description
The intermediate series picks up where the introductory series leaves off. Please read that description (immediately preceding this one) as it applies to this series as well. Note that all AOPS books are intended for high-performing (motivated) math students. These are rigorous texts that require a high level of commitment from students, but the benefits are worth the extra effort. For comparison, this curriculum is more advanced than Saxon and rather like Life of Fred on steroids. It is like LOF in that often, teaching takes place through problem solving, even in the solutions to the problems. These books are huge compared to the LOF volumes which are, even then, largely devoted to the story of Fred's life. Math in LOF is taught in that context; we understand that Fred needs to calculate the derivative of a stock market equation in order to invest his penny while the slope is increasing AND why discovering that vertical asymptote resulted in his becoming a millionaire. Here, the heart of the course is the problem-solving. Virtually all of the text is devoted to this. Students are preparing for problem-solving competitions here and learning techniques and strategies to win. The other MAJOR difference is the amazing, complete solution manual provided in the AOPS curriculum. After working in LOF Calculus with Stephen, I REALLY appreciate having more than just an answer (honestly, it would be nice to not have to work through the problems myself when a question arises-call me lazy).
Students beginning this series should have either completed the Introductory level or, if coming from another curriculum, have completed Algebra I and Geometry at a minimum. Even then, they should take the diagnostic test for AOPS Introduction to Algebra and only tackle Intermediate Algebra if indicated. After completing Intermediate Algebra, students can choose to take either Intermediate Counting & Probability or Precalculus next, or do both simultaneously. Both should be completed before beginning Calculus. A brief description of courses appears below; see our website Table of Contents pages for a more complete scope and sequence.
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Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
Consumable
Consumable
Designed to be written in; not reusable.
Non-Consumable
Not designed to be written in; reusable.