Introduction to Math Methods Math Standards

Why can math be fun? Math can be fun because… it can have so much variety in topics. many different ways can be used to teach the same concept. BUT the BEST reason math can be fun is that so many types of manipulatives are used to teach math.

What are Math Standards? Math standards are sets of “objectives” that students must reach in order to achieve the proper math ability of that grade level. They describe the mathematical knowledge, understanding, and skills that students should acquire.

National Math Standards The National Math Standards are broken down into 2 categories: Content Standards Process Standards These standards were created by the NCTM: the National Council for the Teaching of Mathematics.

What are the Content Math Standards? The National Content Standards are: Numbers and Operations Algebra Geometry Measurement Data Analysis and Probability

What are the Process Math Standards? The National Process Standards are: Problem Solving Reasoning and Proof Communication Connections Representation

State Standards Each state also has its set of Standards. The standards for the State of Ohio are: Numbers, Number Sense, and Operations Geometry and Spatial Sense Patterns, Functions, and Algebra Data Analysis and Probability Mathematical Processes

How can I tell the Standards are important to an elementary teacher? First and foremost, you’ll see students doing mathematics. Students will be applying mathematics to real-world problems and developing strategies to solve more complex mathematics problems. They will be interacting with one another and using other resources along with textbooks.

How is the teacher acting in a classroom where the Standards are important? Teachers will: Pose problems Ask questions that build on students’ thinking Encourage students to explore different solutions.

What will the classroom environment be like when the students are being taught according to the Math Standards? The classroom will have: various mathematical and technological tools (such as physical materials, calculators, and computers) available for students to use when appropriate.

Are all classrooms the same when the Standards are being taught? There are many models of Standards- based classrooms, but the focus will always be on students’ learning, understanding, and doing high- quality mathematics.

Are teaching by Standards important? What do YOU think? Why?