Discrete math, a new second-semester math course, was introduced to high school this year, generating different reactions from students and teachers.

This year, the math department shortened calculus and launched a subject in the math field with less complexity specifically intended for students who do not desire to go after a math-based career. Agata Prymicz, who also teaches calculus, took the role of teaching this new elective. 

“I think many students are enjoying this course as it allows them to look at math from a different perspective. Discrete math gets away from complex equations and formulas and focuses on basic numbers and patterns, which is great for those who do not need advanced math for what they plan to study,” Prymicz said..

“I’ve received some pretty good feedback from students saying they discrete math more than calculus but there’s also some students that have told me they would’ve preferred to have calculus for the whole year, but again we are only two weeks in so I can still prove them wrong,” Prymicz said.

Ana Isabel Garcia, HS counselor, explained the process and reasoning behind the implementation of the course. Calculus was a year-long course but then it was changed after realizing that all this time wasn’t necessary.

“The math department revised the curriculum and checked if it was really necessary to calculus be a full-year course, and they came to the conclusion that by following the law requirements and the necessities of the students and what they have to learn, one semester was okay,” García said.

For students that didn’t want to take AP Calculus, the class was ideal, but it was important that it had a level of difficulty that was high enough. For the most part, students have stated that discrete math is not easy, but also not so academically-demanding as other math electives, which leaves them time to focus on other classes that are more important for their career plans.

“I’m not a math person, so for me, discrete math has been perfect as it allows me to keep studying math while being able to have time available to concentrate on other subjects at school that I need for my career,” Maria Isabel Tavera, senior, said.

Most positive comments that have arised about discrete math come from the fact that the class involves different math concepts, rather than the classic ones that are taught in other classes. Discrete math aims to use basic math to solve real-world problems using logic and simple formulas.

“The most appealing thing about discrete math is that it’s not just math but it can be applied to the real world. Many times, when im in a math class I can’t understand how will it help me for my future, but in discrete math I can. Also, it is more interesting than the math we’re used to seeing in school,” Tavera said.

Overall, this class aims to help students with math skills that are different from the ones they are used to. The class will teach the students to problem-solve in a more interactive way.

“I think that taking this elective was the correct choice. Discrete math has been good so far as it has to do a lot whit recognition of patterns and that helps me with general critical thinking and skills that I will need in life,” Tavera said.