PSG - Mathematics

List of 5 items.

• Math Pathways

  WPGA provides both accelerated and regular pathways that lead to fulfilling post-secondary math requirements. For most students, a regular pathway is sufficiently challenging in Grade 8; however, for high achieving, keen, and dedicated students an accelerated stream in Grade 8 may be a good fit which is a blended Math 8/9 Honours course which places the students one year ahead. Another accelerated option is offered in Grade 9, for those in the regular pathway, with a blended Math 9/10 Honours course. Both accelerated pathways require successful completion of a selection process, including achievement above Proficient Plus in the student’s current math course and recommendation by the current math teacher. The final decision for admission to the accelerated stream is made by the Department Head. See the flowchart above for the pathways

• Enrichment Opportunities

  For students interested in enrichment opportunities and part of the accelerated stream, there are several contests scheduled throughout the year including COMC, CIMC/CSMC (or AMC 10/12) & Beaver Computing Competition (Fall), Pascal/Cayley/Fermat, Math Challengers Club & CCC (Winter), and Gauss, Euclid (Spring).

• Accelerated Pathways

  Admission criteria for the Math 9/10 Honours course in 2026/2027 will be based on the following:

  • Completion of enrichment packages submitted to Mr. Ito after spring break.
  • Participation in the Pascal math competition in February 2026, and Gauss math competition in May 2026.
  • Recommendation from your current Math 8 teacher based on your learning initiative, time management, and resilience.
  • A placement assessment will be scheduled in April 2026 to determine admission to Math 9/10.
  • Final cumulative grade of at least Proficient in the Math 8 course and Math 8 Final Assessment will be required to confirm placement in Math 9/10.

  Admission criteria for the Math 8/9 Honours course in 2026/2027 will be based on the following:

  1. Completion of the Intent Form (posted on Google Classroom)
  2. Accepted invitation to the Math 8/9 Honours Google Classroom
  3. Evaluation of an in-person critical thinking task
  4. Evaluation of an in-person written test
  5. Participation in the Gauss math competition in May
  6. Final recommendation determined collectively by evaluators and current Math 7 teacher
  7. Reference letters are required ONLY for candidates not attending WPGA in Grade 7.

• Foundations of Mathematics 11 & 12 Pathway

  The Foundations of Mathematics pathway offers an application-based approach to math, well suited to students who thrive when learning through practical, real-world contexts. This stream is designed to empower students with the mathematical literacy required for success in diverse post-secondary fields, including Nursing, Social Sciences, Fine Arts, and the Humanities.
  
  

  By focusing on logical reasoning and functional relationships, this pathway provides a robust mathematical toolkit for students whose academic interests lie outside the theoretical focus of Pre-Calculus. To ensure the best fit for your future goals, we encourage students to collaborate with WPGA University Counselors to verify specific entrance requirements and to discuss with their Foundations of Mathematics and Pre-Calculus 10 teacher whether this course would be a good fit.

  Key Considerations: 

  • Post-secondary entrance requirements: Many programs value the applied skills found in Foundations 11 and 12; some may require both levels for admission.
  • Strategic alignment: This pathway is highly recommended for students who want to build a high level of confidence and mastery in math by focusing on applied concepts rather than abstract theory.
  • Growth & Success: Students who find the pace of the Pre-Calculus 10 curriculum challenging will find that the Foundations stream offers a more sustainable and rewarding environment to demonstrate their true mathematical proficiency.

• AP Calculus AB/BC & Calculus 12 Pathways

  Students can write the College Board Exam in May at a cost of $153.  For students to qualify for enrollment in AP Calculus, they must first complete Pre-Calculus 12. Students will be recommended to the AB or BC option by their current Pre-Calculus 12 teacher and/or the Mathematics Department Head. Prospective AP Calculus BC students must achieve at least a 92% in Pre-Calculus 12 whereas prospective AP Calculus AB students must be above 86%. Students are not allowed to enroll in AP Calculus and Pre-Calculus 12 concurrently.

   

  Please note that while three different calculus courses are offered, any of the three could be cancelled due to low enrollment.  Qualification criteria from March report cards are as follows:

  1. Calculus 12 and Pre-Calculus 12 concurrently: at least 86% in Pre-Calculus 11 and recommendation from the Mathematics Department Head. This option is only for Grade 12 students.
  2. AP Calculus AB: at least 90% in Pre-Calculus 12.
  3. AP Calculus BC: at least 94% in Pre-Calculus 12.