In the world, more than 75% of skilled and semi-skilled jobs require varying levels of mathematical skills. That being said, the level of competition for available employment positions is also getting tighter and tougher with every passing day. Hence, it has become even more imperative for young students to build a strong math foundation and carry it forward in their higher studies to carve an impressive career path.  It is also equally important to make wiser choices while treading through the academic journey path so as not to regret them later in life.

Therefore, as a high school student, choosing topics wisely and building on them is necessary as, during this time, students are expected to explore and excel in a vast variety of topics across many subject areas, with the core subjects that they are required to delve in deeply being Science, Mathematics, Social Sciences, and languages. Out of these, Math is often labeled as the most intimidating and tough subject, which makes it even more difficult for students to take a pick out of the different math classes required in high school. Though there could arguably be some truth in this, with the right knowledge and practice, even Mathematics can sound easy!

Also, while the inherent complexities of Mathematics are indeed tricky to endure, you can be sure that the curriculum revolving around it is designed to help you learn systematically, focusing on the major subject matter and brushing through the rest. After all, the importance of this subject cannot be overlooked at all. You need to excel in math to prepare for the university level, as well as increase the probability to be successful in your bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

And, if still, you’re wondering why to opt for math and what high school math classes you may need in high school, read on!

Importance of Math classes in high school 

Human logic, thought, and endeavours to understand the outside world and ourselves all depend on mathematics. The study of mathematics is an excellent way to cultivate mental rigour, logical thinking, and mental discipline. Mathematical awareness is also necessary to comprehend the subjects covered in other educational courses like physics, social studies, and even music and the arts. Here are some reasons to be proactive and choose lots of math in and around the high school:

It makes you clever.

Math enables you to excel in the trajectory of your choice. You cannot be physically fit without exercise, and you cannot be successful in your profession unless you think and work smartly—mathematics helps you get into the habit of being sharp and quick. Even if you never utilize the formulas and ideas you learn in math, it will improve your critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making you smarter.

It helps you secure a bright financial future.

Though education is important across all levels, the specific correlation between high school math classes and potential income has been widely ascertained in recent studies. Students who gain expertise in algebra, geometry, and higher-level math courses are more likely to have higher incomes ten years later.

It helps in further studies.

Yes, it is hard work to get through mathematical concepts properly while in high school. But when it is time for college or university, you shall finally realize what good you did to yourself by immersing yourself in Math concepts early! Picking the easy stuff can help you pass, but not excel! So, choose Math to be college-ready even before stepping into it.

It makes you economically wiser.

Find it easy to calculate fast, analyze statistics, and logically make decisions. It makes you more practical. It also helps to be economically wise.

Individuals who live more productive lives as constructive, concerned, and thoughtful citizens need to be mathematically literate. Basic computing capabilities, quantitative reasoning, spatial aptitude, and other aspects of mathematical literacy are included.

Mathematics is a cross-cutting subject. When we consider the history of education in general, we can see that mathematics (geometry and algebra) were two of the seven liberal arts in both Greek and medieval eras. The assumption that mathematics has provided the mental discipline that other subjects require is supported by its historical function.

Mathematical concepts and processes are utilized to address issues in science, engineering, and economics, among other fields and disciplines. (Knowledge of complex numbers, for example, is required to learn many concepts in electronics.) When compared to the mathematical literacy discussed before, the intricacy of those problems sometimes necessitates the application of more complex mathematical ideas and procedures.

Math courses you should take

Choosing which math classes to opt for can be challenging while planning your high school schedule. High schools offer a galore of math topics to choose from, often at varying degrees of difficulty, and it can be extremely difficult and confusing to decide which math classes to opt for.

So, though the curriculum can vary depending on your school, your teacher, the textbook you use, and the level of your math class, most math classes focus on some core math topics. These key topics can help you ace your Math examinations like a pro.

Algebra 1: Elementary algebra that includes real numbers and their properties, basic arithmetic operations, linear equations, quadratic equations, functions, and polynomials.

As a general rule, Algebra 1 will be the first math course you will take in high school. You’ll practice solving, expressing, and graphing linear equations while learning about real numbers. Polynomials, quadratic equations and functions, and arithmetic operations are also covered.

Algebra 2: Advanced concepts of algebra 1 are studied in a more detailed manner to solve higher-level equations, inequalities, and functions.

As one might assume, Algebra 2 concentrates on the skills and concepts taught in Algebra 1. This section examines equations, inequalities, and functions in greater depth, as well as their solution and graphing.

Trigonometry is included in Algebra 2 classes, but it is not normally taught as a separate subject in the same semester as Algebra 2.

Geometry: Guides you through, lines, planes, angles, parallel and perpendicular lines, triangles, trigonometry, quadrilaterals, congruences, circles, and area.

Along with arithmetic, Co-ordinate Geometry is one of the earliest subfields of mathematics. In terms of figure distance, shape, size, and relative location, it is focused on spatial attributes. A mathematician who specialises in geometry is known as a geometer.

Trigonometry:

Junior year is a popular time to finish trigonometry (though it may be completed sooner or later). Although some students may elect to study it separately, it is usually included in current math curricula. It includes learning algebra and geometry and then using those concepts to solve circular and periodic functions

Pre-Calculus: This class is considered an elective course for students who want to take higher classes. It all comes down to series and sequences, as well as probability, statistics, and derivatives.

Calculus: Continuation of concepts taught in pre-calculus, with further focus on integration and differentiation

Importance of studying wisely and practicing well

Sequence your lessons well to extricate more out of your learning. You could begin with Algebra and Geometry and conclude with Calculus, the highest level of math offered by most high schools. Ultimately, practice is the key to acing Maths. Hence, practice well to master math well and boost your skill set.