Understanding the Two Math Pathways

Today, I’d like to introduce Integrated Math and explain how students can approach it effectively. When we look at the typical structure of math courses, there are generally two major pathways. One follows the progression through subjects like Algebra and Calculus, while the other is organized around a sequence of Integrated Math 1, 2, and 3. Broadly speaking, we can divide math instruction into two categories: the Traditional Pathway and the Integrated Math Pathway. This post will focus on the latter.

If you were to ask how many math curricula exist across the U.S., the answer wouldn’t be simple. There are 50 states, each divided into numerous educational units called school districts. In total, there are approximately 13,000 school districts in the country. Each state has its own department of education, which provides curriculum standards and graduation guidelines that most school districts follow, although some schools may make slight adjustments. So, while there aren’t exactly 13,000 completely different curricula, there is considerable variation in how math is taught. These regional differences can lead to significantly different educational experiences for students depending on where they live.

The Emergence of Integrated Math

To address these inconsistencies, the U.S. Department of Education introduced the Common Core Standards in 2010. Although states still have the freedom to develop their own curricula, the aim of Common Core was to offer a broad national framework that states could adapt and school districts could implement. It was during this initiative that Integrated Math was introduced as an alternative to the traditional math sequence.

In the traditional math pathway, students typically take Algebra 1, followed by Geometry, Algebra 2, and then Precalculus. Even within this model, school districts sometimes blend topics from different subjects, meaning course content can still vary. Integrated Math, however, takes a different approach. Rather than stacking subjects vertically, it distributes mathematical concepts horizontally across different domains within each course. While algebra and geometry are taught as distinct subjects in the traditional pathway, they are integrated together in each level of Integrated Math. This model was adopted in part to better align U.S. curricula with international standards. Students usually complete Integrated Math 1, 2, and 3 before moving on to more advanced courses such as Precalculus, Math Analysis, or Advanced Math. Today, many schools across the country have adopted this curriculum model.

The Policy Debate and Practical Considerations

During his presidency, Donald Trump attempted to eliminate the federal Department of Education, arguing that education should be governed entirely at the state level, without national standardization through frameworks like Common Core. Although steps were taken in this direction, the effort did not pass through Congress. As a result, many schools still follow the Integrated Math structure today.

If your school uses Integrated Math, you may find yourself in one of two positions: trying to get ahead, or simply trying to stay on pace. If you're aiming to move ahead, you can study traditional subjects like Algebra, Geometry, and Statistics individually before advancing to Calculus—and this approach is perfectly acceptable. The level of rigor in U.S. math education is not especially high, so studying these subjects separately won’t typically create any major issues. On the other hand, if you're short on time and just need to prepare before the semester starts, focus on the specific material you’ll be covering in the upcoming term.

Studying Integrated Math Effectively

For students who are self-studying, many available resources—including textbooks and platforms like Khan Academy—organize their content according to the structure of Integrated Math chapters and units. It’s a good idea to follow this format. Ultimately, the way you study Integrated Math should depend on your individual needs and academic goals.

We’ve covered the basics of the Integrated Math pathway today. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to A-One Institute. We’re always happy to help. Thank you!