Math

Our class will be using the enVision math 2.0 instructional program. This program is filled with resources including online components your child can access from home. In the first few weeks of school, your child will bring home a login and password to access the online textbook, games, homework and more.

The enVisions math program is based on problem-based learning. This means students are thinking, solving, and talking about math in the context of real world problems. Students have opportunities to connect their thinking to classroom discussions, engage in problem solving tasks and write about their thinking. Students will apply math concepts to real world problems to make learning meaningful. Additionally, students are encouraged to be curious, persevere, and apply mathematical practices to solve complex problems.

Some concepts we will explore in math this year include:

    • Place value
    • Multiplication
    • Division
    • Fractions
    • Decimals
    • Measurement
    • Algebra
    • Geometry
    • Data Collection

An example of our math rotation schedule.

Math Rotations

Our class will follow a workshop approach. This means your child will take a pre-assessment to determine his or her knowledge of the concepts being introduced. Based on the results of the assessment, students will be grouped and rotate to different stations throughout the week to meet their strengths and needs. These groups are flexible in nature, and will change frequently based on your child's needs.

Rotation activities may include:

Technology

Problem Solving

Math journaling

Meeting with me

Fluency/Brain Teaser Games

Learning Contracts

Manipulatives to further explore or reinforce a concept

Design Challenges infused with math concepts

Homework

Your child will typically have homework each night (Monday-Thursday) and will have the option to complete the online homework or workbook page. Your child would have had lots of practice in class with the skill being done for homework and should be able to complete the homework independently. However, if your child is struggling there are resources in the online textbook (videos, questions, examples) to help at home. If your child is truly struggling, please have them stop working on the homework and write me a note. I'd be happy to work with your child on what they were stuck on when they return to school the next day.

Support at Home

I can not stress the importance that your child knows his or her addition, subtraction, multiplication and division facts. Encouraging the fluency of your child's facts at home will be a huge help in 4th grade! Many concepts introduced focus on utilizing the four operations, and therefore it is important your child has a strong foundation of basic facts. Some ways to help foster fact fluency at home would be flashcards, online games (look on our website under math resources), writing them down anywhere (notebook, index card, white board, post-its, ANYWHERE!), and repeating them out loud. Have them repeat them to you in the car, while you are making dinner, or before bed. You could also have your child repeat the facts out loud to themselves - the more they say it, the more they will remember it! Also, pay attention to the facts causing the most trouble. Have your child write it down on a post-it and then stick it a place they look often. Whatever you choose to do, I thank you for your support at home. It is beyond appreciated and know it will contribute to success for your child this year!

Assessments

I try to give as much notice as possible for any quizzes or tests. Your child will know exactly what to expect on any upcoming assessment. Reviews will be specific and be similar to the format of the actual test. I encourage your child to study a bit each night by reviewing our notes taken in the notebook, looking back at previous lessons in the workbook, and completing several examples.