Math Beliefs and Commitments
- Because we know/understand that...learning mathematics is maximized when teachers focus on mathematical thinking and reasoning
- inquiry-based learning builds understanding balanced with skill practice
- we need to be literate mathematicians
- learning mathematics is enhanced when content is placed in context and is connected to other subject areas and when students are given multiple opportunities to apply mathematics in meaningful ways as part of the learning process
- foundations of math start with experience and opportunities to manipulate and build an understanding of number relationships
- understanding number relationships builds fluency in efficient and accurate computation
- automaticity allows for retention and application of essential math skills and concepts
- applied math is the process of solving problems and thinking critically to make sense of real-world situations
- problem solving, using multiple strategies, builds flexible thinking which leads to greater depth of mathematical understanding, building relevance through connections
- math becomes relevant when students take ownership and are able to explain their thinking
- the widespread impact of technology on nearly every aspect of our lives requires changes in the content and nature of school mathematics programs
- students use diverse strategies and different algorithms to solve problems, and teachers must recognize and take advantage of these alternative approaches to help students develop a better understanding of mathematics
- the improvement of mathematics teaching and learning should be guided by ongoing research and by ongoing assessment of school mathematics programs
Trevor-Wilmot District Mathematics Curriculum shall...
- be based on Common Core Standards, and guidelines set by professional groups such as the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.
- provides many multi-step word problems to allow for practice
- provides for skill practice
- provides rubrics for constructed response questions
- aligns with Common Core State Standards in order to prepare students for college and career readiness
- provides lessons and has materials for learning for many learning style preferences of students
- utilizes technology in purposeful ways
Trevor-Wilmot District Teachers shall…
- be literate mathematicians, supporting the instructional shifts in the Common Core Standards
- utilize the Optimal Learning Model of gradual release
- focus on mathematical thinking and reasoning
- reflect on students patterns of errors
- provide alternative approaches to learning
- have opportunities for professional growth
- provide authentic learning experiences for students to connect and integrate deeper understanding
- utilize technology in purposeful ways
Trevor-Wilmot District Students shall…
- reflect on “why” an answer is given
- become more independent in their mathematical thinking
- be able to access prior knowledge in order to answer multi-step questions
- break apart steps to solve problems
- understand why a lesson is being learned
- develop their ability to apply mathematics to everyday problems in purposeful ways
- create and explain mathematical representations
- communicate math ideas fluently
- develop their ability to justify answers
- demonstrate basic math skills with automaticity
- utilize technology in purposeful ways
