Mathematically Powerful Children:
- Look for and make use of patterns and structure in their mathematical understanding;
- Use tools such as manipulatives, measurement devises, calculators, and computers appropriately and strategically;
- Model solutions by building, drawing, writing equations and describing in writing their strategies;
- Persevere in solving problems;
- Can reason abstractly and quantitatively, at the appropriate developmental stage, as they apply numbers to a wide variety of situations;
- Construct viable arguments for their own solutions and critique the reasoning of others;
- Attend to precision by realizing the importance of and the necessity for a solid foundation in computation skills.
At the Phillips Brooks School, our math program is guided by the Common Core State Standards of Instruction in Mathematics. We use a collection of mathematics programs to best help us achieve these standards. These programs include but are not limited to: Everyday Mathematics, Singapore Mathematics, and Bridges in Mathematics. We also use a variety of supplemental materials. Our choices of materials and approaches to teaching math are designed to meet the needs of a diverse set of learners.
Mastery of mathematical concepts and skills comes from repeated exposure and practice allowing students to make connections and build on what they know while gradually learning more challenging content. Each child’s individual needs are addressed as we diversify instruction. Children who need more are given the time and the practice. More able students are encouraged to deepen their understanding by applying their advanced reasoning skills to more complex problems while they study the same concepts as their classmates.
Our math program features:
- A safe environment in which to experiment and 'play' with numbers
- Extensive experiences in hands-on learning
- A problem rich experience that provides a more authentic context for learning math
- An integration of mathematics throughout the curriculum where math and science especially are tied as students learn, practice and apply the skills of measurement and data collection and display
- Many ways of looking at numbers and the way they are used
- A variety of methods and strategies for computation
- A priority on automatic recall of basic number facts
- A program which values the process is as much as the answer
- A home/school partnership that provides opportunities for families to participate in the students' mathematical learning.
Content strands include:
- Operations and Algebraic Thinking
- Number and Operations (Base 10 and Fractions)
- Measurement and Data
- Geometry