Sabtu, 24 Desember 2011

Elementary Math (For Parents)


As educational research into learning and development grows, Elementary Math teaching practices are changing. An entirely new approach to teaching math is being implemented in my childrens’ schools, and it has not happened without controversy. On the whole, I have been impressed and pleased with the fun and easy games my daughter is playing because I can see that she really is learning the concepts of math in a powerful way. At the same time, I worry – what about memorization of facts or paper and pencil tests (i.e. standardized test scores)? I decided to do some research into the topic, and I’ll share with you what I found on the Web.

Theoretical Foundations and Innovative Teaching Practices
To understand the background of educational reform
 in the U.S., visit EdWeb where Andy Carvin will guide you in a concise and painless way.

Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligencesforms the basis for the innovative methods that are becoming a grass-roots movient among teachers. At New Horizons for Learning, Leslie Owen Wilson discusses why teachers are drawn to multiple intelligence theory and practice in the classroom. Another key concept is the whole brainapproach to learning – you’ve no doubt heard the term whole language, an innovative and controversial approach to teaching children to read. Well, now we have whole math, and it promises to be just as interesting, though difficult to integrate into traditional teaching practices. Mark Wahl presents a creative yet balanced approach to understanding new math.

Start with The Guide to Math and Science Reform from the Annenberg/CPB Projects’ Learner Online for a comprehensive look at innovations in Math education worldwide.
The U.S. Dept. of Education’s Math Initiative page will help parents understand where math education is moving in the U.S.

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Web site gives you background on the new Principles and Standards for School Mathematics.
The Eisenhower National Clearinghouse for Mathematics and Science Education strongly advocates reform in Math education. Start with their ideas for reform but don’t miss theENC
Digital Dozen for some great Math and Science links.

TERC, an innovative hands-on approach, is the Math curriculum started by our school this year.
TERC also made the popular educational software program Logical Journey of the Zoombinis by Broderbund.

Research into collaborative learning, a component of new math, may be found at WestEdWeb site.

New Math is controversial. Mathematically Correct.com takes a highly critical look at Fuzzy Math. One visit to this site motivated me to take no chances, and to drill my child on basic math facts at home.

Integrating New Math at Home
Help your child do the activities in the Figure This! Math Challenge for Families to get a feel for how whole math works. I think you’ll be impressed.

The Glass Wall Home Page from TERC will help you choose great games and software to enhance your child’s math learning. Explore more Math Fun and Games online.

From Kimberly L. Keith, former About.com Guide

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