Curriculum Overview
Standards
Common Core State Standards
The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Mathematics provide a clear and consistent framework for what students are expected to learn, ensuring that all students have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in college, career, and life.
NCTM’s Process Standards
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Process Standards emphasize the importance of problem-solving, reasoning and proof, communication, connections, and representation in mathematics education.
Standards for Mathematical Practice
The Standards of Mathematical Practice describe varieties of expertise that mathematics educators at all levels should seek to develop in their students:
- Make sense of problems & persevere in solving them
- Reason abstractly & quantitatively
- Construct viable arguments & critique the reasoning of others
- Model with mathematics
- Use appropriate tools strategically
- Attend to precision
- Look for & make use of structure
- Look for & express regularity in repeated reasoning
The Standards for Mathematical Practice Progression through Grade Levels outlines how these practices develop across different grade levels, ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive understanding of mathematics.
Differentiation
Methods for Differentiating Math Instruction
Differentiating math instruction involves recognizing and valuing the diversity among students, allowing each to shine by using different strategies that cater to their unique needs and learning styles. Teachers blend whole-class, group, and individual instruction to effectively address varying knowledge levels, interests, and learning styles. Instruction is proactive and flexible, offering varied activities and choices to keep students engaged and accountable for their learning. Assessment are integrated with instruction to continually plan and adjust lessons based on students’ strengths and weaknesses. Knowing students’ interests and using a variety of assessment forms enhances engagement and understanding. Collaborative and inquiry-based teaching fosters a supportive learning environment, and ongoing reflection and adjustment ensure that teaching methods evolve to meet students' needs.
By employing these methods, teachers create a dynamic and inclusive classroom environment that promotes mathematical proficiency for all students.
New Trier Math Entrance Exam
New Trier High School offers an accelerated two-year mathematics program for the top 2-5% of students in Grades 7 and 8. Enrolled students take Algebra I in Grade 7 and Geometry in Grade 8, progressing to Algebra II/Trigonometry as freshmen. It is important to note that this is not the only pathway for students to access this accelerated programming.
The qualification process involves multiple data points, including the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessment and the New Trier Qualifying Test (NTQT), which is administered to Grade 6 students. Participation in the NTQT is not mandatory. Students who qualify for New Trier Math skip the 7th and 8th-grade mathematics curriculum. Non-qualifying students have rigorous options within Winnetka, including a compacted 7/8 Math curriculum.
The NTQT is designed to identify algebraic readiness, with no issued study materials. The only recommended preparation is a good night’s sleep and a healthy breakfast. Communication to all sixth-grade families from The Skokie School administration will be sent in advance of the test.