Read below for detailed information about these programs as well as district mathematics partnerships and curriculum maps. |
The following mathematics programs are offered in the Holyoke Public Schools:
Workshop Model
Connected Math Project 2 (CMP2)
Investigations in Number Sense,
Data, and Space (MI)
RAMP-UP Math & Algebra
Larson Math
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Workshop Model is a three-phase instructional workshop model used to deliver instruction in all math classrooms in grades K - 8. In the initial phase, Launch or Opening – the teacher sets the problem, introduces new ideas, clarifies definitions reviews, old concepts, and connects to past experiences without lowering the challenge of the task. During the second phase, Explore or Work Time – students work independently or in small groups to gather data, share ideas, look for patterns, and make conjectures. In the final phase Summary or Closing – the students present and discuss their solutions as well as the strategies they used as the teacher guides them to reach the mathematical goal of the class and connect their new understanding to prior knowledge. Teachers have had opportunities for training on the workshop model made available to them through district initiatives, America’s Choice On-Grade Level Training, CMP Training from Lesley University and Pearson Learning, and Math Investigations Training from Hampshire Educational Collaborative. District Math Coaches will continue to work with teachers to enhance the implementation of the program and help to deepen the understanding and connection of the mathematical strands.
Connected Math Project 2 (CMP2) is a researched based program that is being used for middle school mathematics instruction. The overarching goal of the program is that all students be able to reason and communicate proficiently in mathematics. CMP helps students develop an understanding of important concepts, skills, procedures, and ways of thinking and reasoning in number sense, measurement, geometry, algebra, probability and statistics. The concepts are embedded in engaging problems that students explore individually, in a small group, or with a whole class. The problems presented over time give student practice with important concepts, related skills, and algorithms. A three-phased workshop model that support s problem centered instruction is used to deliver the curriculum in these classes. Teachers have had opportunities for training in CMP2 made available to them through district initiatives, America’s Choice On-Grade Level Training, and CMP Training from Lesley University and Pearson Learning. The District Math Coaches and Lesley University will continue to provide teachers with training in the mathematical content and implementation of lessons.
Investigations in Number Sense, Data, and Space (MI) is a student-centered, inquiry-based program based on how children best learn. It is designed to help all elementary children understand the fundamental ideas of numbers, arithmetic, geometry, data, measurement, and algebraic thinking. MI is designed to encourage students to reason mathematically, develop problem solving strategies, and represent their thinking using models and graphs, and communicate their thinking as outlined in the Principles and Standards for Mathematics from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. Students explore the central topics in-depth through a series of investigations as they are actively engaged in working to solve larger mathematical problems. Lesley University has been the major provider for teachers, with continued grade level trainings in mathematical content and lesson implementation.
RAMP-UP Math & Algebra for grade 6 is designed to help those students who are two to three years behind in mathematics. It is a research based approach that enables students to catch up with their peers. It is designed from algebra down with concepts covered in depth. Its focus is on the mathematics that student must understand in order to succeed in college and in the workplace. Ramp-Up uses the math workshop model to provide students with a higher level of concentration in mathematics and algebra. Students have time to read, discuss, and explore strategies and answers.
Larson Math is a software tutorial and assessment program that provides coverage of math standards. Its format is used to reinforce, extend and assess students’ learning. It guides the students as they master and apply math skills and problem solving techniques. There are three elements of instruction of the program: Skill component, where students have the opportunity to practice what they have learned; Problem-solving component, where students connect their learning to real world situations; and Writing component, where students answer open-ended questions.
Mathematics and Science Partnership Project is a partnership with Lesley University, University of Massachusetts – Boston, Mass Insight Educational Foundation and the Massachusetts Department of Education. The focus of the course is to improve teacher mathematics content knowledge. The course is designed to satisfy the MA requirements for professional licensure and/or HOUSE plans in elementary and middle school mathematics. Over three years, each teacher-participant will complete a nine-course program of study, which can lead to an Advanced Professional Certificate or Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction, with a Specialization in Elementary of Middle School mathematics. All courses will emphasize strong mathematics content, and include historical notes related to the mathematical ideas. Additionally, participants will engage in examining student work as they strive towards understanding how such evidence can inform instructional decisions.
Curriculum Maps for K – 8 have been designed to ensure that students are exposed to a rigorous curriculum in every school and every grade, and to have consistent instruction and assessment district wide. The district’s expectation is for students to successfully meet the Massachusetts Mathematics Standards and to score at the proficient range on the MCAS test in mathematics. In order to facilitate this, teachers are required to follow the curriculum maps. The successful implementation of these maps requires teachers to work through the project and problems prior to planning their lessons. The math coaches and other district personnel were trained in curriculum mapping by America’s Choice, became the principle architects of the documents, and are now providing professional development to the grade level teachers as the first of these maps are available.
