Math at John Hay
What do we teach in math?
What we teach in math is based on the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements (EALRs). There are five major content targets:
- Number Sense
- Measurement
- Geometric Sense
- Probability and Statistics
- Algebraic Sense
There are also three math process targets:
- Solves Problems and Reasons Logically
- Communicates Understanding
- Makes Connections
How do we teach math?
Every student at John Hay is provided with a rich math experience. Teachers have high expectations, clear standards, and continuous evaluation for their students. Teachers use effective questioning techniques, correct mathematical vocabulary, and appropriate technology to guide students in their mathematical thinking. A variety of instructional groupings, including large group, small group, and one-on-one, are provided for students during math instruction time.
Students are engaged in meaningful tasks, including hands-on investigations, use of manipulatives, and mathematical discourse. Students spend time exploring problems in depth, find more than one way to solve a problem, apply their own invented strategies and approaches, and express their mathematical thinking through drawing, writing and talking.
In addition, every third, fourth, and fifth grade class has a math tutor to provide additional assistance during math instruction.
What materials do we use to teach math?
Teachers at John Hay use a variety of materials to teach math in their classrooms. The Seattle Public School District has adopted a new Math curriculum K-5. This is a significant change given the fact that all elementary schools district wide (with a few exceptions) will all be using the same curriculum at the same pace. Over the summer teachers and administrators were trained using the new curriculum and are feeling excited about the program.
There are a number of features that distinguish the Everyday Mathematics curriculum. These include:
Real-life Problem Solving
Everyday Mathematics emphasizes the application of mathematics
to real world situations. Numbers, skills and mathematical concepts
are not presented in isolation, but are linked to situations and contexts
that are relevant to everyday lives. The curriculum also provides numerous
suggestions for incorporating mathematics into daily classroom routines
and other subject areas.
Balanced Instruction
Each Everyday Mathematics lesson includes time for whole-group instruction
as well as small group, partner, or individual activities. These activities
balance teacher-directed instruction with opportunities for open-ended,
hands-on explorations, long-term projects and on-going practice.
Multiple Methods for Basic Skills Practice
Everyday Mathematics provides numerous methods for basic skills practice
and review including written and choral fact drills, mental math routines,
practice with fact triangles (flash cards of fact families), daily sets
of review problems called math boxes, homework, timed tests and a wide
variety of math games.
Emphasis on Communication
throughout the Everyday Mathematics curriculum students are encouraged
to explain and discuss their mathematical thinking, in their own words.
Opportunities to verbalize their thoughts and strategies give children
the chance to clarify their thinking and gain insights from others.
Enhanced Home/School Partnerships
For grades 1-3, daily Home Links provide opportunities for
family members to participate in the students' mathematical learning.
Study Links are provided for most lessons in grades 4-6, and all grades
include periodic letters to help keep parents informed about their children's
experience with Everyday Mathematics.
For more information regarding Everyday math feel free to talk to
Mr. Warren or your child's teacher, or go to http://everydaymath.uchicago.edu.