Math Lab
When students step into the Math Lab, a world of exploration awaits them. Every student in our school (K - 4) is given opportunities to further their understanding and develop their own mathematical thinking. Students grow and make sense of their mathematical thinking as they have a variety of experiences, have time to approach the work from where they are in their own development, and have opportunities for dialogue with others (teachers and students). We believe that in our elementary building all children benefit from math enrichment.
In addition to the daily math instruction, routines and math practices that take place in each classroom, the students have Math Enrichment either in their room or in the Math Lab with the Math Resource Teacher on a regular basis (once every six-day cycle).
In Kindergarten the students will work in small groups (2-4) with the Math Resource Teacher in their classroom. Students explore patterns, take on measuring projects, explore the representation of numbers (both concrete modeling and symbolic writing), play math games, investigate shapes, count and count and count, and more.
In First grade, math games are brought to the whole group in their own classroom. The math games and other activities are coordinated with the classroom math instruction. A quality math game will reach each child where they are in their own math thinking and understanding and provide opportunities for enrichment. Concrete exploration is emphasized so that solid understanding is established.
During their Second, Third and Fourth Grade years, the students come to the Math Lab for Math Enrichment in small groups (typically ½ class size groups). Once again the exploration is within the context of their grade level curriculum. Within a small group, math games and math exploration activities meet individual student needs. Dialogue in the small group is encouraged and believed too promote intellectual stimulation for all students.
Throughout student work, problem solving is central. Students are encouraged to develop their strategies, their own thinking, their ability to represent and explain their thinking, and to listen to others’ ideas. Math Lab is a welcoming environment for all students to become better math thinkers.
