What Makes The Rigor?
- Concepts are explained from multiple angles, tailored to student responses and needs.
- Note-taking and review are required for all classes.
- All lectures are recorded and remain accessible for review throughout the year.
- Intensive exercises are practiced both in class and afterward.
- Detailed steps are demonstrated in class and must be shown in all submitted work.
- After-class exercises must be self-evaluated on a custom-built website before submission.
- All submitted work is evaluated by the teacher, with any issues reviewed in class.
- All errors in submitted work must be corrected.
- Close communication with parents is maintained throughout the year.
Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.
-- Thomas Edison
We believe that learning math—or any subject—requires not only acquiring knowledge but also developing qualities such as focus, perseverance, and resilience. Understanding the purpose of learning is equally important and can significantly enhance the process.
Education is a long-term endeavor that requires teamwork among students, parents, and teachers. Only when each fulfills their role can the system truly work. Maintaining this commitment is challenging, as it demands ongoing communication, determination, and flexibility. Yet it is through this effort that we help the next generation grow—a rewarding responsibility for both parents and teachers. Along the way, not only do students mature, but parents and teachers also learn and grow.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. We invite parents and children to join us as we begin this meaningful journey together.
Note: All new students must take the diagnostic exam before enrollment. Please sign up for the exam at https://bit.ly/mclean-math-2025-exam.
Learning Goals
- Master core mathematical concepts and develop a deep understanding of mathematical methods and reasoning.
- Achieve fluency in applying formulas and theorems to solve problems.
- Cultivate rigorous logical thinking and self-correction skills.
- Understand the true purpose of learning and establish effective study habits.
Teaching Approach
- Deliver clear, accessible instruction, emphasizing the value of both in-class and homework exercises, and encourage active discussion.
- Monitor student progress through assignments and classroom participation, adjusting the teaching pace and methods as needed.
- Foster open communication to keep parents informed and engaged, and actively welcome feedback.
Course Offering
Class Size: 5–12 students; special arrangements required for smaller groups.
Course Recommended Students Prealgebra Advanced 4th-grade AAP, strong 5th-grade AAP, and most 6th graders Algebra I Advanced 5th-grade AAP, strong 6th-grade AAP, and most 7th graders Geometry Advanced 6th-grade AAP, strong 7th-grade AAP, and most 8th graders Algebra II Advanced 7th-grade AAP, strong 8th-grade AAP, and most 9th graders Precalculus Advanced 8th-grade AAP, strong 9th-grade AAP, and most 10th graders
Textbooks
-
Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) Series
Originally designed for math competitions, this series also suits general enrichment. Challenge problems in the textbooks are optional for homework but recommended for competitive students.Course AOPS Textbook Title Prealgebra Prealgebra Algebra I Introduction to Algebra Geometry Introduction to Geometry Algebra II Intermediate Algebra Precalculus Precalculus
Homework
- Includes Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) textbook problems, additional teacher-provided custom problems as needed, and optional Alcumus online exercises.
- Assigned weekly (average 4–5 hours of work; daily study is encouraged) and due before the next class.
- Requires step-by-step solutions for all problems submitted.
- Self-evaluated (on an AI-powered website) before submission and reviewed by the teacher prior to class, discussed in class as necessary.
- Students are expected to correct all errors identified either by themselves or through teacher feedback.
Instructor
Leo – Ph.D., 20+ year's experience as STEM educator, recognized for clear explanations, responsible teaching and rigorous training.
2025 - 2026 Tentative Schedule
- Session Start: Week of August 16, 2025
- Frequency: 1 class/week, 2–2.5 hours per session (includes 10-minute break)
Course Day & Time Prealgebra Friday 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Algebra I Saturday 11 AM - 1 PM, or Sunday 9:45 AM - 11:45 PM Geometry Saturday 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Algebra II Monday 6 PM - 8:30 PM Precalculus Sunday 5:30 PM - 8 PM
Location & Access
- Classroom address: McLean Professional Park, 1489 Chain Bridge Rd, Suite 103, McLean, VA 22101
- Online participation available
- Every session is recorded for review
Diagnostic Exam
- All new students must take the diagnostic exam before enrollment. Please sign up for the exam at https://bit.ly/mclean-math-2025-exam.
Tuition
- 40~45 per class for 2-hour classes, 50~59 per class for 2.5-hour class. The exact amount depends on the number of students in the class.
Contact
- Email: mathofsense 'AT' gmail.com (change 'AT' to @ and remove the spaces)
Feel free to reach out for any inquiries!