During the September 13th Board of Education meeting, the proposal of a Discrete Math program was approved. Discrete Math is a program established for students who would like a third or fourth option of mathematics but are not looking to take calculus. Discrete Math will serve as another component of the Algebra II course. There, “The students will discover a variety of discrete math topics through a mix of hands-on classroom activities, traditional mathematical/logical reasoning and interactive computer science activities designed for students with no prior coding experience. This course is ideal for absolute beginners who want to acquire a basic working knowledge of computer science,” as stated on the Ohio Department of Education website. The course is designed to provide students with skills that employers desire which often includes a basic foundation in computer science.
First year High School teacher, Brianna Blair talked about the importance of the class, and what it means for students, now.
“Discrete Math/Computer Science (DMCS) will explore a variety of discrete math topics through a mix of hands-on classroom activities, traditional mathematical/logical reasoning and interactive computer science activities designed for students with no prior coding experience,” said Blair. “Topics include Computational Thinking, Computer Logic, Game Theory, Counting/Combinatorics, Probability, Connectivity, Iteration and Recursion, and Cryptography. All topics emphasize logical reasoning, proof, and communication with precise mathematical and computer science language.” She also clarified that “this course can count towards a student’s third or fourth unit of mathematics and is one of Ohio's new Algebra 2 equivalent Math Pathways' courses.”
In the photos included, Blair’s students are playing Ultimate Tic-Tac-Toe and other experiments.
“This activity is to help determine the winning strategy and persevere through mistakes made while playing. The other photo is of two students using dice in an experiment in which the assignment focuses on productive struggle and probability,” said Blair.