Interactive Math Program at BHS

Interactive Math is an integrated high school math sequence that can replace or supplement the Algebra-Geometry-Algebra2-PreCalculus sequence taught in most high schools. Students work on long term problems; developing, applying, and refining their mathematical skills along the way. Cooperative work is encouraged and learning is considerably more student-centered than teacher-centered as compared to sequential math.

At Beaverton High School, success in IMP requires hard work with both daily assignments and long term assignments.  Success also requires understanding mathematics concepts, not just automating algebraic manipulations.  A student may be enrolled in both IMP and a sequential math class of the appropriate level at the same time.

Quotes by IMP students, an alumnus, and a parent: S.K. past IMP2 student "IMP is a great class for students who enjoy working with groups and on math projects. It's brain exhausting, but very worth it when we receive the results of a project" H.M. past IMP2 student "Instead of going through and solving each problem, you solve and explain how you came to that answer" M.C. past IMP2 student "We form a sense of family within our class. We help each other without being afraid of the other person making fun of you."

IMP2 students analyzing the Hat POW

B.R. BHS Alumnus
"The IMP program introduces you to ways of thinking that conventional math programs do not. The skills that are learned in IMP through the assignments in each level are applicable in many more areas of life than just math. You learn how to analyze problems in different ways and work productively in groups with people who have different talents than you. Personally, I've found that after being in IMP, I'm more creative in my thought process and I am able to voice my thoughts in a more clear and concise fashion. Consequently, the people I work with in projects at college or the business world have a better understanding of what I am trying to say. I believe that IMP offers students a chance to grow as people and gain talents that will make them successful in high school, college, and life after college."

A.D. BHS Parent
"I just want to share my family's experience with IMP math, as I was a skeptical parent and now see the positive result of even a brief exposure to this program. My two older sons went through the traditional math program at BHS culminating with AP Calculus their senior year. I felt the traditional math route would best prepare them for math in college. They both went to highly competitive colleges and couldn't wait to fulfill their math requirement, so they would never have to take math again.

I was nervous about my youngest son taking AP Calculus at BHS his senior year, as he seemed to struggle with math a bit more than his older brothers. His counselor said the only other possibility for him would be IMP 4. I held my breath and had him sign up for IMP 4, after three years in the traditional math program. It was as though someone turned on the lights for him in terms of math. He would come home and tell me voluntarily what he was doing in math class. For the first time he seemed confident in math and to actually enjoy it. He is now going into his senior year at Villanova University. He is majoring in Finance and Economics and has never had less than a B+ in any of his math or science classes.

He is still taking math (where he has mostly A's) and sees its relevance to his life and career goals. If I had it to do over again, I would want all three of my sons to take IMP math all four years at BHS."

Here are samples from student work on the Tesselation POW in IMP2:

Evan's "Sunny Day"	Alicia's "Bubbles"
Tyler's "La Rana"	Chantel's "Owls Perched in the Fog"
Lindsay's "Turtles"	Alicia's "Shapes"
Amanda's "The Puzzle"	Heather's "Rainbow Witch"

The official IMP site is located at www.mathimp.org

updated 10/2/06