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 York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards and provides students with a range of pathways designed to meet diverse academic interests, goals, and postsecondary plans. The core mathematics sequence includes Regents Courses Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2, with additional opportunities for advanced coursework and electives.
Students who complete the required mathematics sequence may continue into courses that provide opportunities for advanced placement courses and/or college-level credit, including AP Precalculus, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, and College Statistics. Students who choose not to pursue a pathway to AP or college-level mathematics courses may select from additional mathematics electives, including Precalculus, Advanced Algebra 3, Probability & Statistics, Math in Society, and College Prep Algebra.
In addition to mathematics coursework, students may also choose from a variety of Computer Science electives to further develop their skills in technology, computational thinking, and problem-solving. Through these courses, students have the opportunity to earn up to 23 college credits while completing their high school coursework.
The high percentage of students who continue to take mathematics for four or more years is an important measure of the strength of our mathematics program. The department is committed to providing multiple pathways that allow students to build mathematical knowledge, develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, and prepare for college, careers, and life beyond high school.
This Math Pathways Flow Chart illustrates the various mathematics course pathways available to students and this Computer Science Pathways Flow Chart shows the computer science pathway opportunities.
GeoGebra Interactive applications in geometry, stats and calculus; allows for graphing & simulations
Desmos Regents course calculator
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