Mathematics

Mathematics Frameworks

Mathematics curriculum in grades Kindergarten to twelve affords students an opportunity to study the concepts and skills mathematics. At the elementary level, students study Operations and Algebraic Thinking, Number and Operations in Base Ten,  Number and Operations—Fractions,  Operations and Algebraic Thinking,  Measurement and Data,  and Geometry. At the middle school level, student learn about Ratios and Proportional Relationships, The Number System, Expressions and Equations, Geometry, and Statistics and Probability. Most eighth grade students study a formal Algebra course. At the high school, offerings expand and students can choose a pathway to study. Courses include Geometry, Algebra II, Statistics and Probability, Calculus, and many AP offerings.

These content areas are guided by the six guiding principles and eight standards of practice noted below:

Six Guiding Principles for Mathematical Programs

• Guiding Principle 1: Learning
  • • Mathematical ideas should be explored in ways that stimulate curiosity, create enjoyment of mathematics, and develop depth of understanding.
• Guiding Principle 2: Teaching
• • An effective mathematics program is based on a carefully designed set of content standards that are clear and specific, focused, and articulated over time as a coherent sequence.
• Guiding Principle 3: Technology
• • Technology is an essential tool that should be used strategically in mathematics education
• Guiding Principle 4: Equity
• • All students should have a high quality mathematics program that prepares them for college and a career.
• Guiding Principle 5: Literacy Across the Content Areas
• • An effective mathematics program builds upon and develops students’ literacy skills and knowledge.
• Guiding Principle 6: Assessment
• • Assessment of student learning in mathematics should take many forms to inform instruction and learning.

Eight Standards for Mathematical Practice

1. Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.
2. Reason abstractly and quantitatively.
3. Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.
4. Model with mathematics.
5. Use appropriate tools strategically.
6. Attend to precision.
7. Look for and make use of structure.
8. Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.