Math Counts
Math Counts – NOT “New” Math
By Patty Lunde, Roosevelt Math Interventionist
A journey is defined as the act of traveling from one place to another. We are now starting on a math journey and traveling to that place together. This journey does not involve “NEW” math. It involves looking at math in a different way....a meaningful math way with connections, instead of rules to remember.
This journey in Watertown started in July when 13 elementary educators traveled to Spearfish to begin their SD Counts training. This training is continuing during the school year and through the next two summers. Five are teacher leaders for their building. Five are doing math interventions in their building, and three are special education instructors using the strategies in their classrooms. All of us will work together to get staff started on this journey with us.
I am starting my journey doing interventions. My students are in grades 1-6 and have been referred for this program by their test scores and teachers. I am helping students gain a strong number sense and a foundation for their success in math. My lessons are based on cognitive guided instruction and we use manipulatives to enhance the lessons and learning. The students are now starting to share strategies. I see them looking at math problems in a non-traditional way. They are making connections.
A journey can be an exciting adventure, but it also brings the fear of leaving familiarity behind. Just as our students are learning to see math differently, the teachers will, too, as they plan for the future success of their students. Research is there to support us and remind us that what we are doing is a good thing. Let the journey begin.