Math

Overview

The Lincoln Public Schools elementary mathematics program is matched to the Nebraska State Math Standards. Grade level content has been designed to ensure students have the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills outlined in the 2015 Nebraska College and Career Readiness Standards for Mathematics.

The content standards have been divided into four categories:


In addition to the content standards, the Nebraska Mathematical Processes also drive our math lessons:

Click here to visit the Nebraska Department of Education site to read more about Nebraska's Standards.

Current Topics

Click here for Information on the current unit. Click on the appropriate grade level at the bottom of the page. You will find a description of the unit, the family letters, and vocabulary for this unit. This page also includes links to all of the units for the year. 

Homework F.A.Q.

Why do students have math homework?

Homework is an opportunity for students to do independent practice of the concepts they are learning in math class.

How often will students have math homework?

In Kindergarten, students will begin to have math homework on a regular basis, but not necessarily every night.

Students in 1st – 5th grade will have math homework to do almost every night.

How can families/guardians help with homework?

Decide on a consistent place and time for students to work on their homework – help build a habit.

Provide encouragement, but don’t take over. It is important that teachers see the student’s thinking (even mistakes) on the homework page. Seeing where students have confusion helps the teacher make decisions about instruction.

How much time should students spend on math homework each night?

K-2: 15-20 minutes

3-5: 20-30 minutes

What if it is taking a lot longer than that?

If a student hasn’t finished their math homework even after working diligently for more than 20-30 minutes, have them stop. Write a quick note to let the teacher know that they were unable to finish in the allotted time, and have the student turn in what they were able to get through.

Core Structures

Quick PracticeThe opening five minutes of each math lesson are dedicated to activities (generally student-led) that allow students to practice newly acquired knowledge. These consolidating tasks help students to become faster and more accurate with the concepts. Occasionally, leading activities prepare the ground for new concepts before they are introduced. Quick Practice activities are repeated so that they become familiar routines that students can do quickly and confidently.Drawn modelsSpecial manipulatives are used at key points. However, students move toward math drawings as rapidly as possible. These drawn models help students relate to the math situation, facilitate students’ explanations of the steps they took to solve the problem, and help listeners comprehend these explanations. The drawings also give teachers insight into students’ mathematical thinking, and leave a durable record of student work.Language developmentThe lessons offer a wealth of learning tasks that directly support language development. In addition to verbalizing procedures and explanations, students are encouraged to write their own problems and describe their problem-solving strategies in writing as soon as they are able.Homework Assignments & Remembering ActivitiesTo help students achieve a high level of mathematical performance, students complete homework assignments. Remembering Activities provide practice with the important concepts covered in all the units to date. Student LeadersAll students will take on leadership roles. Student Leaders lead Quick Practice and Daily Routine activities. Such experiences build independence and confidence. Students gradually assume more responsibility in the classroom.