In math, students are given opportunities to investigate, predict, and communicate their thinking and reasoning as they learn various mathematical concepts. Connecting math concepts to the real world is something that is encouraged and valued. While students are engaged in their learning they will use many manipulatives, participate in discussions, and perform paper and pencil tasks. The math program we use is Investigations. If you would like to learn more about this program, check out the Investigation web site. The program has been designed to engage students in key mathematical concepts as they develop number sense, understand geometric relationships, and explore data. The units for first grade are Mathematical Thinking at Grade 1, Building Number Sense, Survey Questions and Secret Rules, Quilt Squares and Block Towns, Number Games and Story Problems, and Bigger, Taller, Heavier, Smaller. .
Current research has shown us that there are six levels of understanding mathematics. In the first grade program students will be involved in investigations that will foster and promote these six levels. The six levels are described below:
Intuitive - This is what students come with. It is what they intuitively know and understand about numbers.
Concrete - Students use manipulatives to demonstrate their thinking.
Pictorial - Students create pictures or visuals to demonstrate their thinking.
Abstract - Students use numbers and symbols to demonstrate their thinking.
Application - Students make connections and apply concepts to new situations.
Communication - Students communicate their thinking through words.
Math Web Sites for Teachers
By the end of 1st grade, children should be able to:
1. Count to 100 by 10's and 5's.
2. Read, write and order numbers to 100.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of addition and subtraction.
4. Add to 20 using a variety of strategies.
5. Subtract from 20 using a variety of strategies.
6. Understand place value for tens and ones.
7. Record, organize and interpret data.
8. Identify characteristics of 2 and 3 dimensional objects.
9. Estimate and measure length using non standard units.
10. Tell time to the hour and half hour.
11. Identify and state the value of pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters.
12. Understand the many uses of numbers.
13. Explains their mathematical thinking with pictures, words, or numbers.
