My last two memos have focused on the topic of fact fluency. Growing up many of us probably referred to this skill as arithmetic. Arithmetic is the computational part of mathematics that includes addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. So what exactly is mathematics?
Mathematics is the science that studies and explains numbers, quantities, measurements, shapes, patterns, and how all things are related. The Core Standards provide a framework for what all students should know and be able to do. These standards are broken into content standards and the standards for mathematical practice. Content standards are grade specific defining "what" students need to master. The Standards for Mathematical Practice are the eight habits of mind and action that determine "how" students engage in mathematical thinking in age-appropriate ways throughout all grade levels.
Although there are two different types of standards, they are intertwined during instruction and learning. Students are engaging in the practice standards as they work to master the content standards simultaneously. Students are able to develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts through this blending and are better equipped for taking on problem solving tasks. For more information on the CT Core Standards, Content Standards, or Standards for Mathematical Practice, click on the links within this week's column.
Mathematics is the science that studies and explains numbers, quantities, measurements, shapes, patterns, and how all things are related. The Core Standards provide a framework for what all students should know and be able to do. These standards are broken into content standards and the standards for mathematical practice. Content standards are grade specific defining "what" students need to master. The Standards for Mathematical Practice are the eight habits of mind and action that determine "how" students engage in mathematical thinking in age-appropriate ways throughout all grade levels.
Although there are two different types of standards, they are intertwined during instruction and learning. Students are engaging in the practice standards as they work to master the content standards simultaneously. Students are able to develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts through this blending and are better equipped for taking on problem solving tasks. For more information on the CT Core Standards, Content Standards, or Standards for Mathematical Practice, click on the links within this week's column.