Norm Kennedy SEA – February 11, 2009
Math Trailblazers ◦ Comprehensive, K-5 mathematics curriculum with problem solving at its core ◦ Background National Science Foundation Grant TIMS (Teaching Integrated Math and Science) University of Chicago ◦ Standards and research based curriculum ◦ Structured so concepts and skills grow logically within each grade and across grade levels Spiral concept
Comprehensive and balanced assessment program that is formative and summative Teaches math facts and whole-number computation based on current research Rigorous mathematics to all children Teachers are facilitators rather than lecturers
Number and Operations Algebra Geometry Measurement Data Analysis and Probability Problem Solving Reasoning and Proof Communication Connections Representation
That they: ◦ Learn to value math ◦ Become confident in their ability ◦ Learn to communicate ◦ Learn to reason ◦ Become mathematical problem solvers These are also the goals of Math Trailblazers. This is what sets standards-based programs apart from the traditional.
Connections to Science ◦ Real problems occur naturally ◦ Scientific investigation/method Draw – Collect – Graph - Explore Connections to Language Arts ◦ Lessons emphasize reading, writing, and oral communication ◦ Original stories ◦ Trade books recommended to accompany lessons ◦ Journal and discussion prompts for every lesson Measurement ◦ Length, area, mass, time, volume, money
We assess what we value Assessment is integrated with instruction – guides the educational experience Assessment gauges progress over time due to the “spiraling” nature Multiple sources of information improve the validity of judgments about student learning Assessment activities should be balanced to reflect all aspects of the curriculum
Portfolios Discussion Prompts Observational Assessment Written Assessments ◦ Assessment pages ◦ Math journals ◦ Assessment ideas for every lesson ◦ Assessment lessons integrated within ◦ Assessment labs ◦ Assessment units ◦ Open-ended problems ◦ Tests ◦ Facts assessment
Student rubrics appear beginning in grade 3 ◦ Knowing ◦ Telling ◦ Solving Multidimensional rubrics for teachers to use to score one or more areas
Developing meaning for the operation Inventing procedures for solving problems ◦ Learn multiple strategies through discussion and modeling Becoming more efficient at carrying out procedures ◦ Lack of emphasis on rote work and timed tests Developing mathematical power ◦ The ability to understand when and how to apply computational methods to solve problems.
Facts and concepts are not “gatekeepers” so students are not held back from trying something new until one concept is mastered. Mental math and estimation is encouraged.
Parent letters with every unit Home practice with every unit Parent brochures, letters, and homework instructions in English and Spanish Materials for parent involvement A Just for Families page on the Web site
Customized Implementation Plan Initial Training Institute Administrator Workshop Assessment Workshop Strategic Planning Institute Math Mentor Development Workshop Customizable On-site Training
Electronic Teacher Community ◦ Online Message Boards ◦ Live Chat ◦ Forum to ask questions TIMS Listserv Newsletter – “Voice” Website:
Teacher Implementation Guide ◦ Reference guide for teachers Unit Resource Guide (URG) ◦ All the lessons broken up into units books Teacher Resource CD-ROM A Spanish set of Letters Home Blackline Master Book Essential Literature Titles (Optional)
Student Guides Discovery Assignment Books Adventure Books ◦ Collection of illustrated stories Manipulatives ◦ Chain links, connecting cubes, square inch tiles, pattern blocks, 3-D geometric shapes, coins, bits, skinny’s, and flats, graduated cylinders, scales, etc…….
K-5 Teacher Materials Kit - $395 per class Materials Kit - $ per class Student Guides - $30 consumable Adventure Book- $6 non-consumable Discovery Assignment Book $10 non-cons. 4 th grade classroom (28 students) = $2800