Mathematics
Did you know...
Albert Einstein was unable to speak fluently until he was 12 years old
But Albert began to show explosive academic progress in math, leading to a doctorate degree and the writing of his scientific paper, The Theory of Relativity, published in 1905. The paper included his famous mathematical equation about the nature of energy, E=MC2. In 1933, he joined the staff of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, staying there until his death in 1955.
Mathematics contributes to the development of the whole person by enriching one’s life and providing a practical tool for daily living. Students need knowledge of the basics of math to be successful in the pursuit of other academic and career subjects. The study of math helps students develop their ability to reason and think logically, as well as to discover creative ways of solving problems.
At Villa Maria students are taught the basic concepts of math in a step-by-step approach. When appropriate, manipulatives are used to promote concept understanding. Traditional topics are taught in the context of real-world situations. Students are required to do computations and manipulate mathematical symbols, but there is a strong emphasis on the application of knowledge and skills. Problem solving exercises and application activities are integrated throughout lessons. Instruction begins with an emphasis on the essential skills of: number sense, estimation, pattern recognition, mathematical modeling, and builds in the upper grades to understanding functional relationships, data analysis, statistics, and manipulation of algebraic expressions and equations. Students develop the ability to use visual thinking, to make and check conjectures, to reason, and to provide convincing arguments. Students in the upper grades also investigate occupational opportunities requiring math skills. They use the calculator and are introduced to the use of spreadsheets to examine, analyze and solve problems. Instruction using a variety of modalities is included.
The math program is designed to meet the four content standards outlined in the 2005 Connecticut Mathematics Framework.
Instruction is multisensory. Students work at the appropriate skill level, while teachers provide remediation necessary to bring achievement to grade level. Knowledge of basic facts is reinforced, and strategies for calculations, conceptual understanding, and problem solving are taught. Lindamood Bell On Cloud Nine Math uses manipulatives, imagery, and language to develop fundamental math concepts necessary for reasoning and problem solving with numbers.
Several factors are considered when selecting texts: difficulty of reading level, visual complexity of the pages, need for and amount of repetition and reteaching, math vocabulary, provision for connection between math and the real world, and problem solving strategies. In addition to Sadlier Math text and workbooks, supplementary books (Steck Vaughn Mastering Math, Globe Fearon Basic Math and Pre-Algebra, Curriculum Associates Math Mastery Series for practice with multiplication, division, fraction, decimals and percents) are used. The Math-a-Magician program is used in the lower grades to learn and reinforce math facts. The ninth grade algebra class uses AGS Algebra. Manipulatives include unifix cubes, numberlines, fraction shapes, decimal transparencies, Judy clocks, flashcards, teddy bear and other counters, abacuses, and many games, to name a few.