Elementary Mathematics
In elementary classes, beginning in Kindergarten, students have their first exposure to mathematical ideas, concepts, procedures, and applications. They are introduced to, practice, and develop mastery in the areas of Number Sense, Geometry, Measurement, Algebra, Probability and Statistics while they become problem solvers and learn to communicate about mathematics.
• K – 5 Grade-Level State Standards (Performance Expectations)
• Paragraph Summaries of State Standards for Grades K – 3
• Paragraph Summaries of State Standards for Grades 4 – 5
Our elementary mathematics program, guided by Washington State standards approved in July of 2008, will provide a balance of:
• Conceptual Understanding
• Procedural Proficiency
• Problem-solving and Processes
In 2006, Seattle Public Schools adopted Everyday Math as its core curricular material for mathematics. Everyday Math provides a balanced approach that gives students a solid foundation based on the three components listed above. In order to fully meet fifth-grade standards, two middle school CMP2 units (Prime Time and Bits and Pieces I) have been moved to fifth grade.
Supporting Mathematics Learning at Home
Families can support learning at home by:
• Developing students’ procedural proficiency by practicing math facts with them. The Everyday Math Facts Triangles and other games such as Top It are great ways to build students’ proficiency. Just as students should read at home every day, they should also practice mathematics at home every day. The Family Toolkit has other suggestions for at home mathematics learning and practice.
• Developing the attributes of a math learner by using Questioning to Learn strategies.
• Promoting effective use of homework time by using Helping Your Child with Homework Brochure and resources below.
Online Resources for Families
• Family Letters: Everyday Math Family Letters are provided at the beginning of the year, at the end of every unit, and with selected Home Links to explain upcoming content and activities and establish a partnership between home and school. Letters are available online in English and Spanish. Links to these letters are maintained by the University of Chicago School Mathematics Project.
• Everyday Math Online: Access to interactive reference materials, family letters, and games. Student login required to access reference materials and games.
• Getting Started Using Everday Math Online: Information about how to log in to Everyday Math Online for the first time. Contact you student's teacher to obtain username and password.
• Everyday Math Parent Connection: Online Family Resources including tips, do-anytime activities, and literature lists
• Everyday Math Games: A list of Everyday Math Games by each grade level, the skills practiced, and online games that reinforce these skills.
• CMP2 Resources for 5th Grade Families
Other Resources
• Conceptual Understanding
o Library of Virtual Manipulatives
o Create a Graph
• Problem Solving
o Figure This (Mathematics challenges for families)
• Practice with Facts or Procedures
o A+ Math (flashcards)
o A+ Math
o ArithmAttack
o Fun Brain: Fresh Baked Fractions
• Ask Dr. Math
• The Math Forum