Mathematics
Mathematics Objectives
- To build upon and develop intuitive experiences with mathematics in everyday life
- To provide a spiral curriculum that ensures concepts are developed over time, deepening understanding
- To construct and use different strategies to solve real-life problems
- To understand place value and the various mathematical operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication and division—as well as the topics of calculator use, geometry, data analysis and graphing
Grade 3
The third grade mathematics program is designed to provide a strong conceptual base with clear understanding through manipulatives, exploration, questioning, games and activities. Students will study all four operations of whole numbers as well as addition and subtraction of fractions and decimals. Emphasis, through an integrated curriculum, will be placed on solving real-life problems. Students will work in a cooperative setting that requires predicting, collecting, analyzing and discussing techniques and experiences.
Grade 4
The fourth grade curriculum will continue and extend concepts presented in the third grade through the use of manipulatives, explorations, questioning, games and activities. Mathematical operations of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, geometry and graphing will be explored more deeply. Students will be expected to develop a set of “automatic” responses to basic number facts that will facilitate problem solving in everyday life as well as in school. In addition, students will learn to solve multi-step story problems which will help develop their sequential learning skills. Fourth graders will participate in the “World Tour,” a yearlong project linking math and social studies.
Grade 5
The fifth grade mathematics curriculum continues to build upon concepts presented and developed in fourth grade. Instructional activities will foster independent and cooperative learning and encourage persistence in solving more challenging problems. Concepts introduced include addition and subtraction of integers, ratio and proportion, percentages and statistics. Fifth graders will participate in a U.S. History Tour linking the uses of data with their social studies curriculum.
