Mathematics is the universal language

Mathematics is...

a universal language that describes the natural world, allows communication

between languages and cultures, and teaches the ability to think sequentially

ASSESMENT:

Assembling evidence from a variety of assessment strategies

is a routine part of the mathematics classroom

and assists in forming an accurate picture of

an individual student’s progress toward

learning goals. Data gathered from

assessments is used to inform

instruction.

  Communication

Mathematics instruction pro-vides opportunities for students

to effectively communicate their mathematical thinking, orally and

in written form, to peers, teachers, and others by using the precise

language of mathematics. Through communication, students evaluate their

own mathematical thinking as well as analyze the strategies of others

Conceptual Understanding

Teachers provide sufficient time and experiences which enable

students to actively build new knowledge from prior knowledge

so that understanding deepens and the ability to apply math-

ematics in new situations expands. Conceptual understanding

supports retention and prevents common errors. 

Connections

Mathematics represents a network of interconnected concepts

and procedures. Connections are made within the same mathematical structure,

 between mathematical strands, and to other  disciplines and daily living.

Cooperative Learning

Cooperative learning offers students opportunities to explore and discuss

challenging problems which would normally be beyond the capacity of an individual.

This creates opportunities for students to discover and test conjectures based

upon mathematical principles. Through  working together, students increase

self-confidence, deepen mathematical understanding, and utilize social skills.

Multiple Representations

Students should create, select, and apply various representations to organize,

record, communicate, and prove mathematical ideas. These representations may include

diagrams, tables, graphs, symbolic expressions, and physical models. Representations should

 support students’ understanding of mathematical concepts and relationships.

Experiences with concrete models followed by pictorial representations assist in developing abstract thinking.

Problem-Solving

Knowledge is built through the solving of problems that arise

in mathematics and in real world contexts. Students use

and adapt a variety of strategies that enable them to monitor

and reflect on mathematical processes. The teacher’s role

is crucial in choosing appropriate problems that encourage

students to explore, take risks, share failures and successes,

and question one another.

Technology

Technology plays an increasingly important role, helping the

current generation of students visualize and learn mathemat-

ics. While technology should not be used as a replacement

for basic understanding and computational proficiency, mul-

tiple forms of technology used properly in the mathematics

classroom can deepen students’ understanding of mathematical concepts

 When technology is placed in the hands of students, attitudes toward

mathematics are improved, allowing focus on decision making

 reflection, reasoning and problem-solving, while also preparing students for 21st

century life and careers.

Parent Involvement

Parents play a critical role in a child’s math achievement.

Parents need to support students in developing an attitude

that effort, more than natural talent, leads to increased stu-

dent achievement. Changing children’s beliefs from a focus

on ability to a focus on effort increases their engagement in

mathematics learning.