Mathematics

Mathematics is:                                     

• An activity-based program that gives children the opportunity to explore and problem solve as they discover math in their world.
                                                 

• Language-based so that children are encouraged to express their ideas and understandings with others and build up a wide mathematical vocabulary.

• Materials-based and makes wide use of natural and environmental materials as well as structured math equipment.  The materials assist in the development of math ideas and abstractions.

• Focused on learning objectives that are arranged in a cyclic, or spiraling manner, to enable teachers and children to revisit and build on math skills and ideas that are taught throughout the K-2 years.

• Performance-based, with in-built monitoring and assessment for teachers to use in tracking children's progress and then using this information for further classroom planning.

A typical Mathematics classroom:

• Open-ended learning experiences, encouraging children to construct their knowledge and develop various ways to solve problems.

• Varied groupings that encourage children to develop social skills of cooperation, self-motivation, independence, and responsibility.

• Developmental steps, allowing children to move at their own rate and experience success along the way.

• A variety of challenging activities that keeps children on task and involved in practice and consolidation, as well as further exploration and application of their new learning.

Tips for Parents

• Use manipulative at home (pennies, cheerios, M & Ms, Lego's, quarters, nickels, dimes, rocks, toothpicks, etc.)

• Have children read the prices at the store.

• Have them count change.

• Have them tell you what time it is.

• Turn a card or dice game into a addition, greater than, less than, or equal to game.

• Have your child help you cook by measuring the ingredients.