Pre Course Reading Chapter 1 & 2

 

This is how I viewed math. I was one of the 5 of the 4 who believed I can't do math. But reading the text just changed my views and this is how I would like to view math now.

 

 

There are six principles fundamental to a quality mathematics education. They are Equity, Curriculum, Teaching, Learning, Assessment and Technology.

-Equity principle is about setting high expectations for all students.

-A curriculum needs to be coherent and focused on important mathematics. 

-The teacher plays a very important role in bringing enjoyable math experiences into the classroom. To provide a high quality education, teachers need to understand the math contents they are teaching, know the learning styles of the individual students and select meaningful tasks that will enhance learning.

 

-Learning is enhanced when students are allowed to evaluate their own ideas as well as their peers’ ideas. This helps them develop their reasoning and sense making skills.

 -Ongoing assessments help students to articulate and clarify their ideas. Assessments also help teachers to understand their students’ growth and they can make better decisions to support the student learning.

 -Technology like calculators and computers enhance the learning of math by allowing for exploration, representation and communication. I fully agree with this principle as once I had done a math quiz through a powerpoint presentation. Children enjoyed the quiz and my colleagues also decided to try incorporating technology into their classroom.      

There are about five process standards which students need to acquire and use as mathematical knowledge. The five processes are problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connections and representation.

Also there are 6 major components that are important to allow students to develop mathematical understanding. These components include:-

* Creating an environment that offers all students an equal opportunity to learn

* Focusing on a balance of conceptual understanding and procedural fluency

* Ensuring active student engagement in the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
  (NCTM)process 
  standards (problem solving, reasoning, communication, connections and representation)

* Using technology to enhance understanding

* Incorporating multiple assessments aligned with instructional goals and mathematical
  practices

* Helping students recognize the power of sound reasoning and mathematical integrity
 

So how do we each math?

o   Build new knowledge from prior knowledge

o   Provide opportunities to talk about math

o   Build opportunities for reflective thought 

o   Encourage multiple approaches

o   Engage students in productive struggle

o   Treat errors as opportunities for learning

o   Scaffold new content

o   Honor diversity

As Einstein says,

 

 

SO,