Math can be hard. It is imperative to view all aspects of each question with an open mindset despite the difficulties that may arise. Logic, reasoning, and memorization all overlap to find a solution to a wide array of problems, whether it be the simplest second-grade subtraction questions or multivariable functions. These skills translate to real life too in applications such as traveling, shopping, and more.
Cherry Hill East has an expansive mathematics program, especially on the honors and AP (Advanced Placement) level. Advanced courses and pathways are present, allowing students to push the envelope in their studies in preparation for higher-level college courses and beyond. Unlike nearby high schools like Cherokee and Lenape, AP Calculus BC is offered without the prerequisite of taking AP Calculus AB. Furthermore, Multivariable Calculus is an option for certain seniors, which allows the curriculum to be more rigorous.
The highest track offered involves taking an algebra-based course in 7th grade. Previously, Intro to Functions (ITF) served as this course, but Algebra 1 acts as a substitute now with students taking a test at the end of 6th grade to determine eligibility. Pursuing this pathway allows students to eventually complete Geometry in 8th grade and embark on the most rigorous math pathway throughout high school.
Pursuing this pathway can be beneficial for students who excelled back in elementary and middle school. It allows them to be challenged and provides options for students who wish to pursue advanced studies ahead of the general crowd.
However, it can also limit the potential of many who are not sorted into these classes at a young age.
“There’s only a [small] amount of people who actually make it to high-level math classes,” said current Multivariable Calculus student Parth Thaker (‘25). “[Since] it started… in middle school.”
Following Functions Honors is Precalculus Honors. This course allows 10th or 11th-grade honors students to learn both Precalculus and AP Calculus AB in one class. Therefore, they are prepared to enroll in AP Calculus BC in 11th or 12th grade and potentially choose to take the AP exam for the course. AP tests provide college credit to students who achieve a high enough score, which can advance one’s academic pathway.
“It’s… a very [fast]-paced course,” says Adam Lebowitz (‘25), who completed the course in the 2023-2024 school year. “It [has] really heavy and dense content.”
If a student takes AP Calculus BC in 11th grade, they have the opportunity to enroll in Multivariable Calculus—an advanced course that incorporates functions with multiple variables into calculus concepts—in their senior year. This can be beneficial for college applications, preparedness for advanced university math, and the development of numerical knowledge beyond the ordinary high school curriculum.
Mr. Semus, who has been working at East for the past 22 years, currently teaches AP Calculus BC and Multivariable Calculus. Throughout his East mathematics experience, AP Calculus BC remains his favorite course.
“When I took calculus in high school, and even in college, it was a very procedural-based class,” Mr Semus said. “I think that the AP curriculum does [a] really good job emphasizing concepts, as opposed to just pure mechanical calculations.”
The opportunities to take these high-level classes provide a unique and enriching way of gaining knowledge. This often becomes necessary for stronger math students in need of a challenge or for academically-strong individuals who find an interest in STEM careers.
“I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in engineering,” said Lebowitz. “So I figured that this was the best way to prepare myself. That way, when I get to college, I’ll either have prior experience in the Multivariable field… or at least prepare myself and see if I really do like it.”
There does lie some drawbacks of the emphasis on advanced classes. As a result of the additional honors and AP courses, pressure is placed on students. They feel required to take these classes, even if they are not the right fit for their abilities and focus.
“In AP and honors classes, the big difference is that you have to take what you learn in class and possibly apply it to a novel situation when it comes to a test,” said Mr. Semus. “That’s a skill that is challenging [in the sense that] it takes time to develop.”
Despite the commonly perceived impression, students who wish to go into science or engineering fields are not required to complete the honors track.
Mr. Semus said, “It’s a very rigorous track that is not intended for everybody… Many students take AP Calculus senior year, which is amazing… [or,] if students are interested in a STEM field, but don’t feel that they’re quite yet ready for the pace and rigor of the honors curriculum, our [Accelerated] track really does a good job of getting students ready to take Calculus at the college level.”
Ultimately, the East Mathematics department aims to provide students with the skills they need to excel at math, no matter their level. From the Quantitative Literacy pathway to the A track to Multivariable Calculus, these courses can allow students to thrive, in math and in life.
“You have to work hard,” said Lebowitz. “[You have to do] a lot of practice. And the more you practice, the more improvement you can see… [It’s] not necessarily cramming the information in your head, but really learning and understanding the topics [that is important].”