Mathematics

The third grade mathematics curriculum is rooted in Bridges in Mathematics, which emphasizes conceptual understanding and the development of efficient strategies for problem solving. In addition to continuing work on topics such as adding and subtracting whole numbers, place value, measurement, and geometry we begin to focus more on multiplication, division, probability, and fractions. We help students move from concrete to abstract thinking. Children continue to do hands-on work with base-ten blocks, counters, play money, and other manipulatives, but they also begin to work on more abstract problems.

To enable the children to handle the increasing complexity of problems, there is greater emphasis on computational fluency in third grade. Students are expected to improve facility with addition, subtraction, and multiplication facts. To achieve fluency, children use a variety of practice methods, including games and timed quizzes.

The development of problem-solving skills is a key goal for our students.They explore how to approach a problem, identifying and discussing as many ways as possible to solve it. Students are given many opportunities to show, both orally and in writing, how they solved a problem.

In fourth and fifth grades, students continue with the Bridges in Mathematics curriculum. Mathematics instruction continues to focus on developing strong, well-rounded mathematical thinkers. While students are grouped heterogeneously by grade level, there are opportunities for mathematical conversations and projects that include all students in JU-A. In our classrooms we use a mixture of direct instruction, structured investigation, and open exploration, which speak to the intelligence strengths of all students by presenting material that is linguistically, visually, and kinesthetically rich as it is mathematically powerful.

Fourth and fifth graders work on age-appropriate problems and investigations in the areas of number, algebraic thinking, geometry, probability, data analysis, and measurement. Some of these problems and investigations grow out of everyday experiences—reading stories, using maps, playing games, collecting and analyzing data about natural phenomena—while others delve more deeply into the discipline of mathematics itself. Students are encouraged to explore, develop, test, discuss, and apply ideas; we hope that they will come to see mathematics as something that is fluid vibrant, creative, and relevant.

Technology supplements the Junior Unit mathematics program. Students use the Internet for a variety of mathe activities or special math projects, such as following the movement of the Electoral College during the elections or to track the stock market’s history and progress. Teachers often use the Math Forum @ Drexel and other websites for inspiration and instruction. SMARTBoards are used frequently for mathematics instruction.