Introduction to Number Theory

Curriculum details

About

This is an optional course for students who have a special interest in math and number theory. If you choose to take it, Art of Problem Solving recommends completing it before commencing Intermediate Algebra (Algebra 2).

This textbook covers the material in greater depth than a traditional high school course, and includes many challenging problems. For this reason, we recommend that you take things as slowly as the student needs and err on the side of completing a small number of problems with full understanding and without overwhelming the student. Aim to spend between thirty minutes and an hour per day five days a week on this book.

Start each new section by going over the example problems and their explanations. Next, have the student work through the problems at the end of the section in the textbook (there is no workbook).

Be aware that the textbook includes problems of a wide range of difficulty, and the majority of students (and parents!) are not expected to solve the most challenging ones without help. Use the solutions manual to work through any missed problems together. You may opt to skip the "Challenge" sections and complete only the regular problems if desired.

For students who would like to go more in depth or prefer a live class format, Art of Problem Solving also offers challenging, instructor-led online classes at artofproblemsolving.com/school.