What Should I Look for in the Mathematics Program in My Child's School?
A Guide for Parents developed by SciMathMN

 
What can I do to support good mathematics education?
A math classroom should provide practical experience in mathematical skills that are a bridge to the real world of jobs and adult responsibilities. This means going beyond memorization into a world of reasoning and problem solving. Look for the following actions by students and teachers. If you see them, you will be looking at a classroom that is preparing your child for a world beyond school.

What are students doing?
• Interacting with each other, as well as working independently, just as adults do.
• Using textbooks as only one of many resources. Students should know how and when to use tools such as blocks, scales, calculators, and computers for problem-solving.
• Applying math to real-life problems and not just practicing a collection of isolated skills. Lots of time is allowed for solving complex problems.
• Seeking a best solution among several solutions to a problem. Students can explain the different ways they reach these solutions and defend their choice of one over another.
• Working in groups to test solutions to problems with each group member highly involved.
• Communicating mathematical ideas to one another through examples, demonstrations, models, drawing, and logical arguments.
• Working in teams to challenge and defend possible solutions.

What are teachers doing?
• Challenging students to think deeply about problems and encouraging a variety of approaches to a solution.
• Moving around the room to keep everyone engaged in productive work.
• Encouraging students to raise and discuss questions about math for which there are no textbook answers
• Guiding students in making appropriate use of hands-on activities, tools, and technology.
• Promoting student use of inquiry and creativity.
• Bringing a variety of learning resources, including guest presenters in the classroom, in order to increase learning options for all students.
• Working with other teachers to make connections between disciplines to show how math is a part of other major subjects that students are studying.
• Using assessments that focus on problem solving and understanding rather than only memorization.
• Helping all students explore career opportunities that use the mathematics that they are learning.

What is happening in the school?
• Teachers expect all students to succeed and help set high goals for all learners.
• Learning mathematics is considered important for all students.
• The Minnesota Graduation Standards provide the focus of instruction and assessment.
• Assessments match state and local standards and are used appropriately to plan instruction and evaluate understanding.
• Teachers use the Minnesota K-12 Mathematics Framework to plan curriculum that is challenging and age appropriate.
• Teachers have access to the training and resources necessary to implement the Minnesota Graduation Standards in Mathematics.
• There are clearly stated goals for the math program, math units, and math lessons.

What can I do to support good mathematics education?
• Insist that your children take challenging mathematics courses every year.
• Instill in your child the belief that he/she can succeed in mathematics and that hard work pays off.
• Talk with your child's teacher about their needs, concerns, and expectations for students in math.
• Volunteer to help in the classroom during math activities and learn with your child.
• Solve everyday problems and play games with your children.
• Be sure your children have access to and use calculators, computers, and hands-on mathematics, as well as electronic sources of information.
• Participate with your children in mathematics programs sponsored by museums, churches, community centers, clubs, or schools.
• Learn about the Minnesota K-12 Mathematics Framework and the Minnesota Graduation Standards in math and how they are used in the school's math program.