Mathematics

Academics

Mathematics Curriculum

The Trevor Mathematics curriculum pulls from an array of the most effective mathematics programs, and comes to life through inquiry-based teaching methodologies. For our earliest learners to the sophisticated seniors, the department focuses on conceptual understanding, mathematical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. The curriculum goes far beyond rote memorization to help students understand the "why" and “how” behind mathematical concepts, bringing math to life.

Signature Trevor

Teaching mathematics at a school committed to inquiry-based learning leads to deeper and richer learning. Questions lead to more advanced queries. Exploring one path to an answer is not enough. Students are encouraged to uncover divergent routes to the same answer. And teachers take great care to contextualize the study of mathematics in real world scenarios.

Trevor:

List of 3 items.

Singapore Math Dimensions

Designs its curriculum around the most effective mathematics programs including Singapore Math Dimensions and Problem-based math.
Advanced MS Math

Offers an advanced math track in Middle School.
Tutoring

Improves math skills through a peer-to-peer tutoring center.

Department Mission Statement

The Trevor Day School Math Department educates students to apply logical reasoning and problem-solving skills to explore and solve abstract, practical, and challenging mathematical problems. We aim to foster confident, flexible thinkers who can transfer these skills to unfamiliar contexts and real-world situations. Students learn to communicate their mathematical thinking clearly—both orally and in writing—individually and in collaboration with others. We encourage curiosity, creativity, and resilience, helping students see the beauty and utility of mathematics while embracing mistakes as a natural part of the learning process. Ultimately, our goal is to cultivate not only strong mathematical understanding but also an appreciation for the subject’s richness, relevance, and potential to inspire joy.

Trevor’s Mathematics Department faculty encourages students to actively engage with concepts and problems in order to fully understand the power of mathematics in the world around them. Trevor’s common spaces amplify faculty accessibility so that both mathematical challenges and next-level ruminations can continue to be explored outside of the classroom. The mathematics faculty are curious, creative, and thrive on student questions and ingenuity. Middle School Mathematics Teacher, Tom Cutrofello shares, “I gave a classic puzzle from Japanese puzzle master Hirokazu Iwasawa to a student. The object is to put four identical M-shaped pieces inside and then close the lid, and I thought there was only one way to solve it. Recently, Eric J. ’30 showed me his method. I watched his first steps, knowing that it wouldn’t work. And then it did! Unquestionably, this ranks as the highlight of my school year. Now, I can’t wait to show my puzzle friends Eric’s novel method”

College Ready

Having completed their course of study in mathematics, Trevor students can head off to even higher levels of study with a strong foundational knowledge in arithmetic, geometry, algebra, trigonometry, precalculus, calculus, and statistics, as well as essential learning skills including critical thinking, problem solving, quantitative reasoning, analysis, inquiry, collaboration, and resilience. Most importantly, Trevor students are active advocates for their learning, with the confidence to engage teachers and TAs, attend office hours, and lead study groups.