Mathematics

The Mathematics Department prides itself on meeting students where they are in terms of math ability and helping them achieve their educational goals. These goals can vary from needing basic arithmetic/algebra skills to needing courses such as statistics, calculus, computer science, and others. Many of these courses are designed specifically for transfer, enabling students to complete their first two years of coursework leading to a Bachelor’s degree in virtually any field of study at a four year college or university.

The College offers varied methods of instruction in mathematics.

The Math Department also offers mentoring and tutoring through the Math 1:40 Club led by full-time instructors. SSC is active in the American Mathematical Association for Two Year Colleges (AMATYC) and the Illinois Mathematics Association of Community Colleges (IMACC).

Mission

The mission of the Mathematics Department is to assist in the placement of students into the highest math class in which they can be successful and to nurture students in developing critical thinking skills. Our aim is to bolster students’ capacity to become clear thinkers and good decision makers and to encourage students to apply logical thinking skills used in their math courses into the study of other subjects.

Program Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

DEVELOPMENTAL MATHEMATICS

• Students will perform operations on whole numbers, integers, fractions, decimals, and percents and use these computational skills to solve applications.
• Students will transition from arithmetic to algebra.
• Students will use critical thinking to solve problems and distinguish between families of functions and sets of numbers.
• Students will develop algebraic skills needed to transition to college level mathematics.

LIBERAL ARTS MATHEMATICS

• Students will demonstrate quantitative, analytic, and problem-solving skills.
• Students will develop a knowledge of the relationship between mathematics and other fields of endeavor.
• Students will use technology appropriately.

STEM MATHEMATICS

• Students will analyze mathematical problems in order to formulate a correct problem-solving approach.
• Students will integrate algebraic methodology with technology to analyze and verify results.
• Students will develop a knowledge of the relationship between mathematics and other fields of endeavor.

Additional Information

The College uses the ALEKS placement system to determine the highest math class for which a student is prepared. Students can use the ALEKS system to improve their placement by using the online modules to refresh their skills. In addition, a mathematics department blog that stores a number of additional resources for students is available at the SSC Math Department blog.

Recommended AS Transfer Curriculum for Mathematics

For students interested in mathematical analysis and applications, spatial relations, data analysis, or mathematics education. Combinations of math degrees with other fields (engineering, business, elementary education) can open many doors. Math and science teachers at all levels of education are in great demand.

This is only a suggested transfer program and might not be appropriate for every student. Some four-year institutions accept more than 62 credit hours in transfer to fulfill requirements in mathematics. Consult the Transfer Center for help in selecting courses appropriate for the program at the college or university where you plan to transfer.

Faculty are available during scheduled office hours to advise students about their courses and program. Peruse the offerings in the Department of Mathematics.