“The best way to develop fluency with numbers is to develop number sense and to work with numbers in different ways, not to blindly memorize without number sense.” ~ Fluency Without Fear, Jo Boaler, Professor of Mathematics Education, Stanford University
Teaching and learning at Waimea Country School is informed by the latest research in brain science — namely, that students who embrace a growth mindset develop deeper understanding and more readily accept challenges, failures, and mistakes as opportunities to improve their skills and learning. While this approach benefits learning in all subjects, it is particularly important and effective in learning mathematics.
Number sense means being fluid and creative in thinking about how numbers work so there is actual understanding that goes well beyond rote memorization. Building and practicing number sense is an essential component for long-term success in mathematics.
The scope and sequence for all classes is built on National Common Core Standards. Each grade level has a specific set of benchmarks, which teachers reference to ensure inclusion of the necessary skills and concepts in year-long curriculum planning. Rather than school-wide adopted math textbooks, teachers pull from a variety of sources to create a balanced instructional approach designed to reach every student.
At every level, we use visual representations and hands-on manipulatives to teach concepts, build connections, and deepen understanding. Using a wide range of instructional strategies, including small guided math groups, math centers, partner and small group activities, projects, one-on-one instruction, and so on, teachers can meet the needs of each individual student. Mental math and problem-solving strategies are introduced and developed at every level.
Basic Facts: Computational fluency in basic math facts is an essential foundation for success with higher math skills; however, memorization of facts is ineffective without understanding.
At all levels, students engage in activities designed to promote automatic recall of basic math facts, building understanding through ongoing practice and engagement with math tasks. Through hands-on activities, direct teaching of strategies, and number talks, students master basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
In ‘Ohi’a class, children begin building a foundational understanding of mathematical operations and ideas. Students work in centers, small groups, with partners, and independently. The effective use of manipulatives, guided exploration, and play helps children connect ideas and integrate their knowledge so that they gain a meaningful understanding of mathematical concepts.
In Koai’a class, students work in centers, which include a teacher-led guided math session used for teaching specific skills and concepts tailored to the needs of the students. Other centers include independent practice, partner or small group game play, problem-solving, math journaling, and review activities.
In Koa class, mathematics is taught both through direct instruction of specific computational skills and through the application of those skills in problem-solving exercises. Small class size allows students to work closely with teachers and peers and allows the teacher to address the needs of each student and challenge each appropriately based on their current needs and where they are headed next.
Key skills and concepts at each level include:
