The Hempfield Area School District held a Parent Math Night to discuss its new K-12 math curriculum. A Math Curriculum Committee selected the Math Expressions program after a year-long review of best practices and programs. The committee evaluated six programs and selected Math Expressions. Two teachers per grade level are piloting the program this semester. Math Expressions uses real-world examples, drawings, and student explanations to help students build conceptual understanding of mathematical ideas. It incorporates strategies like daily quick practice, teaching multiple algorithms, and having students take on leadership roles. The event provided an overview of the Math Expressions approach and resources for parents to support their children's learning.

1. HEMPFIELD AREA SCHOOL DISTRICTPARENT MATH NIGHT March 2, 2010

2. Math Curriculum Committee Update K-12 Committee began work in January 2009 Worked with the Math Science Collaborative to study “best practices” Participated in presentations on six programs Evaluated each program and conducted phone interviews with teachers and administrators in school districts currently using the program Selected Math Expressions as the top choice. Two teachers per grade level are piloting Math Expressions during the second semester Teachers will use FASTT Math & Soar to Success software to supplement the Math Expressions program

3. Math Expressions Program A comprehensive standard-based K-5 mathematics curriculum that offers new ways to teach and learn mathematics. It combines the powerful elements of the National Science Foundation (NSF) reform mathematics, and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) with the best of traditional approaches. It uses objects, drawings, conceptual language and real world situations to help students build mathematical ideas that math sense to them.

4. CORE CLASSROOM STRUCTURES Math Talk Students explain thinking using drawings, develop math language “Solve, Explain, Question, & Justify” Quick Practice Whole class daily routines & building of prerequisite skills Accessible Algorithms Computational procedures that are meaningful to all learners Student Leaders Students assume leadership roles, develop confidence Building Concepts Real world concepts, link drawings to written math notation Helping Community Everyone is a teacher and a learner

5. Accessible Algorithms An algorithm is a multi-step method for solving a math problem. Students need to understand algorithms conceptually so that they can comprehend math. Students learn to make math drawings that show quantities. Having more than one algorithm allows students to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each one. Less advanced students typically chose one method. Other students may use and be able to explain more than one method while becoming fluent in at least one. Understanding multiple algorithms builds number sense

6. Components of the Program Student Books (Hardback or Consumable) Homework & Remembering Practice Books Teacher’s Resource Book Differentiated Instruction Cards Varied Assessment Manipulatives & Materials Kits Student & Teacher Math Boards Literature Libraries Planning Guides & Pacing Guides Tier I, II, III Interventions Interactive White Board Technology Online Parent Resources – eduplace.com

7. Tips for Parents A strong home school connection will facilitate the learning of all students Math Letters describe concepts that are different and explain why the program uses these models We ask each family to identify a “homework helper” to support the child’s learning from homework. Ask your child about what he/she learned in school Have your child talk about math using math terminology Ask questions to prompt your child, rather than just telling the answers Practice math facts for 5 to 10 minutes each evening Have children apply math in real life situations: Count change, count silverware, measure ingredients, calculate travel distances

8. Online Resources Go to www.eduplace.com for additional resources Click on Pennsylvania Click on Math Expressions Select Grade Level Select either Family or Kids Place You will find the following resources: eGlossary Unit Overview Family Letters Math Background eManipultives eGames

9. A Peek Inside Math Expressions Classrooms C:ocuments and Settingsarinbesktopath Expressions_2.wmv

10. Thank You to Our Pilot Teachers and their Students Kindergarten: Mrs. Hutchinson & Mrs. Werner Grade 1: Mrs. Fox & Ms. Bettac Grade 2: Mrs. Nedley & Mrs. Crimboli Grade 3: Mrs. Cycak & Mrs. Kudrick Grade 4: Mrs. Parker & Mrs. Bringe Grade 5: Mrs. Hawk & Mrs. Ferchak Special Education: Mrs. Short & Mrs. Gilroy Title I: Mrs. Butler Intervention Coordinator: Mrs. Leshock