Elementary math
Grades 3–5
Arithmetic, fractions, decimals and early problem solving, with the aim of arriving in middle school without gaps.
Commonly asked about
- Fractions
- Long division
- Word problems
- Times tables
Taught by Alex Derenstein
Subjects
We teach to the class a student is actually taking — their textbook, their homework, their next test. If a course is not listed, ask; between our instructors we can usually cover it.
Mathematics
Pre-Algebra
Middle school
The bridge into algebra: negative numbers, ratios, expressions and the idea that a letter can stand for a number.
Commonly asked about
- Negative numbers
- Ratios and proportions
- Order of operations
Taught by Alex Derenstein
Algebra I & II
Middle and high school
Linear equations, polynomials, quadratics, graphing, exponentials and logarithms — turning rules that look arbitrary into steps that follow from each other.
Commonly asked about
- Quadratic equations and factoring
- Graphing functions
- Systems of equations
- Logarithms
Taught by Alex Derenstein
Geometry
High school
Spatial reasoning, proofs and the properties of shapes, with particular attention to writing a proof that actually argues something.
Commonly asked about
- Two-column proofs
- Circle theorems
- Trigonometric ratios
Taught by Alex Derenstein
Pre-Calculus
High school
Functions, trigonometry, sequences and limits — the material that determines whether calculus feels reasonable or impossible.
Commonly asked about
- Trig identities
- Unit circle
- Function transformations
Taught by Alex Derenstein
AP Calculus AB & BC
Advanced Placement
Limits, derivatives, integrals and series, taught with an eye on both conceptual understanding and the specific shape of AP exam questions.
Commonly asked about
- Related rates
- Integration by parts
- Series convergence
- FRQ technique
Taught by Alex Derenstein
Physics
Conceptual Physics
High school
The principles of the physical world with the emphasis on understanding rather than heavy algebra.
Commonly asked about
- Free-body diagrams
- Newton’s laws
- Energy conservation
Taught by Alex Derenstein
AP Physics 1 & 2
Algebra-based
College-level algebra-based physics: mechanics, work and energy, electricity and magnetism, with extensive AP problem-solving practice.
Commonly asked about
- FRQ technique
- Rotational motion
- Circuits
- Fluids
Taught by Alex Derenstein
AP Physics C: Mechanics
Calculus-based
Calculus-based mechanics, bridging the gap between calculus as a maths course and calculus as a description of how things move.
Commonly asked about
- Calculus in kinematics
- Rotational dynamics
- Oscillations
Taught by Alex Derenstein
Test preparation
SAT / ACT math
College admissions
Targeted preparation aimed at the specific question types costing the most points, rather than a general review of everything.
Commonly asked about
- Pacing
- Word problems
- Careless errors
- Score plateau
Taught by Alex Derenstein