Written By: Morse Math Advisory Group
During the 2014-2015 school year, we are beginning the implementation of Math in Focus at the Morse School. Math in Focus will be used in Grades: 1, 3, 4, and 5. During the 2015-2016 school year, the Math in Focus program will be used in all grades K-5. Math in Focus is aligned with the Massachusetts Mathematical Framework Content and Practice. Below are the major components of the Math in Focus Program.
- Instruction moves back and forth between the Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract:
- Students need to UNDERSTAND the mathematics; not follow rote procedures.
- Students learn the operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) with MEANING
- Emphasis on Mental Math. How are students VISUALIZING or SEEING the math?
- Bar Models to represent problem situations as an aid to increase student understanding.
- Math is Thinking
- Instruction is Guided and Differentiated
The MA Mathematical Framework drives our instruction and Math in Focus is the new primary resource for instruction. It is our goal at Morse School to have all students learn math with understanding and use it as a problem solving tool. Please contact your child’s teacher or Regina Byrnes, Morse Math Coach, if you have any questions regarding mathematics.