Geometry

What We Focus On

Geometry represents a genuine shift. The learning curve is steep because the type of thinking changes — students move from algebraic computation into spatial reasoning, logical proof, and visual problem-solving. It's a real lift, and we prepare students for that from day one.

Our primary focus is triangles, circles, and the bridge between geometric shapes and their analytical counterparts. Students learn the Pythagorean theorem not just as a formula but as a tool that connects geometry back to algebra. Circles and parabolas are studied alongside their equations, tying visual intuition to the functions and quadratics students learned in Algebra 1. A solid introduction to trigonometry — sine, cosine, tangent, and special right triangles — rounds out what is one of the most concept-dense courses in high school math.

We continue building ACT/SAT competency by directing students to freely available practice sets in the topics covered so far. Geometry questions make up a significant portion of both tests, and early practice pays off.

This course is also available as a Summer Test-Out — though we recommend students who are considering test-out join our winter session (January–April) first. Geometry's emphasis on spatial reasoning and proofs benefits greatly from a longer runway before the accelerated summer pace.

Course Format & Availability

We offer Geometry three times a year: a Fall session (September–December), a Winter session (January–April), and a Summer session (June–August). We also offer a year-long format for students who prefer a steadier pace. Space in these classes is limited due to demand and small class sizes — we keep groups small to ensure every student gets the focused attention they need.

Students in these classes are encouraged to send doubts and questions via email throughout the week rather than waiting for class day. Geometry problems can be especially frustrating when you're stuck — getting a quick pointer by email keeps practice moving forward.

What We See in Kids at This Level

The ability to visualize is what separates students who struggle in Geometry from those who thrive. We actively encourage spatial thinking — sketching diagrams, labeling figures, rotating shapes in their mind — because students who can see the problem are halfway to solving it.

Students who arrive with gaps in pre-algebra basics find this course especially challenging since Geometry layers spatial reasoning on top of algebraic skills. We identify this early and provide extra support and targeted practice.

The shift to a single 2-hour weekly session continues at this level, with flexibility built in for the realities of high school schedules — extracurriculars, sports, and competing demands on time. Students manage their own homework schedules, and we hold them accountable while respecting that high school life is genuinely busy.

As with Algebra 1, students often come in wanting help with specific homework questions. We use those moments as teaching opportunities — addressing the underlying concept, not just the individual problem — so the class remains a learning environment rather than a homework-help session. Desmos continues to be a core tool, especially for connecting geometric shapes to their equations.

How a Typical Session Runs

We start by checking in on practice progress and any specific areas where students need support. At this level, students are expected to come prepared and to communicate what they're finding difficult.

From there, we move into the planned lesson — always emphasizing visualization first, then connecting the geometry to its algebraic foundations. When we teach the Pythagorean theorem, students see it on a coordinate plane. When we study circles, they write the equation. Every geometric concept gets tied back to the analytical tools students already have. During each class, students solve 5–10 problems on their own — reinforcing the visual thinking we emphasize — with the remaining practice assigned as homework.

We close with homework planning and ACT/SAT practice set recommendations aligned with the week's topics.

Schedule & Holidays

We make full use of summer holidays to keep momentum going, while accommodating family vacation plans. We typically take long weekends off, along with a week off in summer and a week off in winter. This approach gives students consistent practice time without burning them out.