The 21st century is taking us to a new era in mathematics education. Changes in technology have made mathematics alive and dynamic. Mathematics is a science as well as an integral part of our daily lives. Now, more than ever before, educating students for life requires that we provide all students with a strong mathematical background.
The mathematical instructional approach implemented in elementary school is based on highlighting mathematical concepts in the everyday experiences of children. Children develop critical thinking and problem solving strategies. The use of various manipulatives enables children to experience a concrete, hands-on approach to learning. Students participate in small group activities where they consider the ideas of others and grow stronger as problem solvers. Students communicate mathematical ideas and solutions and explain their reasoning. Students achieve a mathematical growth mindset as they learn and grow.
At the middle school level, students continue to use manipulatives, calculators and computer software, as well as paper and pencil, mental math, and estimation where appropriate. Real life applications and cooperative learning are incorporated into the program. Communication skills of reading, writing and discussion are further developed. In grades seven and eight students are encouraged to connect mathematics to other disciplines. All students in grade eight take the NYS Regents course, Algebra 1, culminating with a Regents exam in June.
At the high school level, the mathematics department follows the new New York State Common Core Learning Standards of Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2. Students completing the required sequence of courses are offered electives, highlighted by our AP Calculus, College Statistics, and Computer Science classes. Within the department, many students are enrolled in Advanced Placement courses, including AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Computer Science Principles, and AP Computer Science A. Those who do not wish to take Advanced Placement math courses may choose from Advanced Algebra 3, Probability & Statistics, Pre Calculus, College Statistics, Math in Society, Computer Science electives, or College Prep Algebra. The high percentage of students taking four or more years of mathematics is a strong measure of success for our students and programs. This Flow Chart shows the possible math pathways.
GeoGebra Interactive applications in geometry, stats and calculus; allows for graphing & simulations
CK12 Adaptive Practice, Simulations, Study Guides
Khan Academy Instructional videos, practice exercises, adaptive technology
K5 Learning Printable Worksheets
JMAP Regents questions and other resources to prepare for Regents exams
Patrick JMT Instructional Videos
Math Open Reference Interactive math textbook for Algebra I & Geometry
Math Guide Lessons, activities and instructional videos for Pre-algebra up through Calculus
Math is Fun Mini lessons, worksheets, games, puzzles, NYS standards
Math Playground Interactive math games to build fluency
Metric Conversions Conversions for currency, temperature, weight, etc.
Code,org Free curriculum resources and tutorials; lessons & activities related to computer science
Sheppard Software Interactive Math Games/Activities to Build Fact Fluency
Teachnology Printable worksheets
The Math Learning Center Visual math apps including fractions, number lines, money and patterns and shapes
The Art of Problem Solving Instructional videos, adaptive online learning system, AMC and AIME problem seminars
Phet Simulations Interactive Simulations
Regents Review Instructional Videos
Virtual Manipulatives Interactive manipulative, puzzles, practice, discovery
Tara Mauer
Director of Mathematics, K-12
(516) 678-8567