The journey from arithmetic to calculus begins with Cistercian's Middle School mathematics curriculum. The focus here is first on developing the students' understanding of rational arithmetic and basic geometry. The second two years of the Middle School may in fact be seen together as serving the purpose of introducing algebra into the treatment of both arithmetic and geometry.

Mathematics in the Upper School begins with Euclid's geometry. Students need to learn geometry, not only because it is indispensable for all of applied mathematics, engineering, architecture, physics, calculus, but even more importantly because it has simply set the standard that any piece of reasoning must meet to be called a branch of mathematics. Forms Six and Seven are a continuation of the two earlier forms but the weaving of geometry and algebra is now more complete. Cistercian's mathematics curriculum culminates in the Eighth Form in a yearlong calculus course taught at the college level but with a selection of material which allows willing students to take the Advanced Placement exams in calculus.

At the same time, topics from discrete mathematics such as counting and probability are important and are included in each required course. Moreover students wishing to delve deeper into these topics can take advantage of various mathematics electives in the Upper School as well as join Cistercian's Math Club or one of our many math teams.

For more information, please see the CPS curriculum guide