Horace W. Porter School

 Philosophy:

An understanding of mathematics is necessary for all individuals so that they may lead productive and rewarding lives.  Therefore, a mathematics program must build a base of skill, both concrete and abstract, which will enable students to better understand their world and apply that understanding to solve problems in their daily lives.  The mathematics program should also seek to communicate the excitement and challenge of mathematics.

 We will endeavor to provide our students with positive educational experiences to cultivate a desire for continued learning.  We believe that a good mathematics program actively involves students in the learning process, using a variety of teaching methods and approaches, and develops in students an appreciation of the usefulness of mathematics.

 Purpose:

The purpose of our program is to prepare the student to function mathematically in a technological and information based society.  We also believe that each student is unique and, therefore, that each must be encouraged to develop an understanding of mathematics commensurate with his/her ability.

 Program Goals K-8:

Educational goals for students must reflect the importance of mathematical literacy.  The intent of these goals is that students will become mathematically literate by developing their ability to explore, to conjecture, and to reason logically.

          The general goals for all students in our mathematics program are:

·         Learning to value mathematics

·         Becoming confident in one’s own ability

·         Becoming a mathematical problem solver

·         Learning to communicate mathematically

·         Learning to reason mathematically

Program Description:

The mathematics program at Horace W. Porter School is activity based with many problem solving opportunities, i.e. instruction and skill development often begin with problems that need to be solved so that students can appreciate the usefulness of mathematics and have a purpose for their learning.

Kindergarten – The purpose of the kindergarten program is to tap the rich experiences and enthusiasm that children bring to their initial school learning environment.  HWP uses a manipulative based program that encourages the active involvement of students as they begin to make sense of the world around them.

Grade One through Five – Our primary and elementary programs use a variety of resources for mathematics instruction.  At the present time we use as our main resource, Everyday Mathematics, which was designed it improve school mathematics in grades K-12.  Everyday Mathematics’ materials are based on spiral levels of understanding from simple explorations to advance understanding of concepts and skills.  Frequently, students are asked to explain how they got the answers, and to try to find another way to get the same answer.  The program uses discussion, daily routines, partner and small group activities, games, manipulatives, and home-school partnerships.  Our approach to mathematics has allowed for more hands-on student involvement, and increased, meaningful problem solving and enrichment opportunities.

Grades Six through Eight – The sixth, seventh, and eighth grade math curriculum uses a variety of resources as well, but the main support comes from the Prentice Hall Mathematics,

Courses 1–3.   The resource, along with our math curriculum, prepares students for algebra and beyond by developing problem-solving skills, improving conceptual understanding and providing students with tools they’ll need for on-going success.  PH Mathematics is a program with proven success and a wide range of build-in opportunities to assess student understanding.  Goals include:

·         Engaging middle school learners with students interest and easy-to-use technology

·         Guided problem-solving

·         Differentiated instruction

·         Daily support with web-based tools

Manipulatives, student projects, and various math contest opportunities augment the use of the textbook.  The use of calculators, computers, and SMART Boards are included for all students. There is a seventh grade, high-ability, Pre-Algebra class as well as an eighth grade, high-ability, Algebra class.  Students in these classes are identified based on teacher recommendation and various assessments.