To function effectively as citizens and consumers, all students need to learn to enjoy and appreciate the value of mathematics and develop the mathematical skills they must have for varied educational and career options. Strong foundations in number sense and numerical operations form a basis for the successful use of mathematics.
Students best acquire mathematics skills when they are engaged in activities that enable them to discover, understand, and apply mathematical concepts. When students are challenged to use mathematics in meaningful ways, they develop their reasoning and problem-solving skills and come to realize the usefulness of mathematics in their lives. The Board of Education has set a goal to make Summit the leader in STEAM education. STEAM--Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts (design) and Mathematics--is an integrated way to deliver curriculum and instruction offering problem-based authentic opportunities for learning. This approach is reflected in many courses across the curriculum.
Students preparing for careers in the information-based economy of the twenty-first century must be able to solve real problems, reason effectively, and make logical connections. To enable all students to gain the necessary mathematical skills, understandings and attitudes, instruction needs to focus on the “whys” and “hows” of mathematical learning:
- Pose and solve real world problems.
- Effectively communicate mathematical ideas.
- Make connections within mathematics and between mathematics and other areas.
- Provide opportunities for active student involvement.
- Use of technology.
When math is taught in a problem-solving spirit, students are interested in what they are doing and are more likely to understand the material. Instructional strategies that allow students to talk and write about math helps to clarify and solidify their thinking and develop confidence in themselves as mathematical thinkers.
Mathematics learning is not dependent on special abilities but can be achieved by all students by using organizational strategies such flexible grouping, cooperative learning, individualized and whole class instruction, differentiating instructional strategies, and by developing achievable high-level expectations.
Students will develop positive attitudes toward mathematics when they are taught in a supportive, developmentally appropriate environment, when all students’ mathematical learning embodies the notion that engagement in mathematics is essential, and where decision-making, risk-taking, perseverance, self-assessment, and self-confidence are frequently the keys to success.
Math 6 builds upon students’ understanding of whole numbers, fractions, and decimals. Students expand their knowledge of geometry, percent, and probability. Hands-on experiences provide a foundation for the understanding of abstract mathematical concepts. Problem-solving strategies, mental mathematics, and applications of data are practiced
Accelerated Math 6 is intended for highly motivated students who demonstrate mastery of basic computational skills and display problem-solving ability. In addition to extending whole number, fraction, and decimal skills, students work with positive and negative numbers, ratio and proportion, percent, algebraic equations, and geometry.
Math 7 reviews, reinforces, and extends computational skills to include fractions, decimals, and percent, as well as an in-depth introduction to integers. Building a solid foundation of understanding of the number system is a major goal of this course. Units of study include geometry, statistics, and algebraic thinking.
Pre-Algebra 7 is designed for highly motivated students who possess excellent quantitative skills. Students study traditional topics in numeration and computation using an algebraic approach including geometry, applications of ratios, proportions, percent, and statistics. Concept development and problem solving are a critical focus.
Pre-Algebra 7 Enriched is intended for mathematics students with excellent quantitative skills and demonstrated capacity for dealing with abstract concepts. Algebraic and geometric concepts are taught in an interrelated manner. Arithmetic procedures involving fractions, decimals, and signed numbers are solidified. Units involving statistics and geometry are also presented.
Pre-Algebra 8 is intended to encourage students to think mathematically and is designed as preparation for future studies in Algebra and Geometry. Skills required for algebra, geometry, number theory, patterns and functions, data, and problem solving are studied. The instructional approach balances the skill-focused units with problem solving-based applications designed to develop a more algebraic approach to thinking and reasoning.
Foundations of Algebra was developed for the students who are prepared to begin their exploration of Algebra 1obtaining mastery of the skills, techniques, and concepts necessary for success in future mathematics courses. This course includes an exploration of the properties of the real number system, fundamental operations with real numbers and variables, solving equations, inequalities, linear and non-linear relationships, and linear systems. Students develop these concepts numerically, graphically, and analytically. In addition, students will apply their skills in all strands of mathematics through authentic problem-based experiences that focus on the connections between algebra and topics involving geometry and data analysis.
Algebra 1 Enriched provides a challenging, in-depth experience with the three key elements of Algebra: equations and inequalities, graphing, and interchangeable use of words and symbols. An important goal of this course is to lead students toward more independence in their learning through continuous previewing and reviewing of concepts. Complex applications of Algebra are introduced as the traditional skills are developed. Strands involving informal geometry, probability, statistics, and discrete mathematics are interwoven throughout the course.
Math Strategies 6 - 8
The Math Strategies program is designed to support students who need additional support in mathematics. Through small group instruction, students learn strategies to help them achieve according to the NJ Standards. The course will provide students with differentiated instruction and varied opportunities to work toward improving achievement. The program recognizes individual learning differences and strives to build students’ competence and confidence. The district is committed to providing instruction that aids students in displaying academic growth in order to be successful in all aspects of the curriculum.
