Math Coach
Notes For Parents
"Singapore Math" refers to the Mathematics curriculum in the country of Singapore. In the United States, the term generally refers to the Primary Mathematics Series, which is the textbook series we use at AOD. The curriculum is taught in a logical, step-by-step manner that builds on students' prior knowledge and skills. It follows a concrete to pictorial to abstract approach. Fewer topics are taught in greater depth. The goal is conceptualization and mastery. Problem solving is at the heart of the Singapore curriculum. Place value, mental math, and computation are reinforced through problem solving, particularly through the model drawing approach. Our students develop the following core understandings: number facts, number sense, patterns, visualization and communication. The Singapore Math approach revolves around several key strategies; 1) thinking about numbers, 2.) understanding place value, 3.) finding part-whole relationships in math, and 4.) breaking down and decomposing numbers into friendly numbers.
Goals for the Year
My goal is to 1) build on the students prior knowledge, 2) look at how the student reaches his/her answer, 3) foster a positive attitude, 4) make math active, 5) continue to engage students in math talk. with an emphasis on number sense, and 6) continue to support teachers in their efforts to help students visualize math and master mental math strategies.
Homework
Students are encouraged to "talk" math at home. Visit www.mom'shomeroom.msn.com for some great "math talk" ideas.
Class News
We are pleased to tell you about a website we are using in our classroom called. IL IXL is a comprehensive math practice site with an unlimited number of math practice questions in hundreds of skills-all of which are aligned to state standards. One of the best things about IXL is that your child can access it from home, so you have a chance to see your child's progress!
Tomorrow we'll tell you how to get started on your home computer.
Classroom Rules and Expectations
Be safe. Keep your hands and feet to yorself.
Be repectful. Listen while others are speaking.
Be responsible by doing your best. Follow directions the first time.
Have fun larning something new today, and learn to excel in math.