K-6 Mathematics Resources
During yesterday's Mathematics class, we were given the opportunity to explore the K-6 Mathematics resources. I had only see bits and parts of these resources before this class. During my observations days, I was able to see some being implemented in the classroom on occasion. Nonetheless, my experience with these resources has been far from extensive, so it was nice to have some time to get all seven levels in my own hands, and check them out for myself.
I was really impressed by the primary resources. I found it neat that they used so many colours, patterns, photos, and illustrations that children could really identify with, and would be interested in. The building of number sense in the primary grades is extremely important. Without adequate number sense, students will be lacking the necessary foundation that they need in order to acquire further mathematics skills. I think that the emphasis on visuals in the primary resources would really help with this. If children visually see "two ears", "two feathers", and so on, as in some of the books that used animal references, they will be continually adding to that picture in their minds of numbers and the various contexts in which they can be used. I also think that presenting mathematics in a real-world context will aid tremendously in fostering problem-solving skills. If a child can solve a problem in one context, but cannot take that same knowledge and apply it a novel situation within the real world, then what is the value in knowing how to solve that initial problem? A huge part of ensuring that children can apply Mathematics in a real-world situation, is it present it this way in the first place. After seeing the language, pictures, and format of the primary resources, I do feel that this has been taken into account.
As we worked our way up in grade level, the main thing that stuck out to me was the dramatic change in the sophistication of the language used in the resources. After grade two, the language seemed to take a dramatic leap. I do believe that the synthesis of Language Arts and Mathematics is important in fostering a holistic and translatable understanding of numerical concepts. However, I couldn't help but feel a sense of worry and panic for the children whose language skills might be a little behind others. It hardly seems fair that a child could be set up to fall behind in Mathematics as a result of any language deficiencies. I feel that there could be a greater effort to include multiple presentations of the concepts. I'm not suggesting that the use of language be completely halted or diminished, but I am suggesting that the use of visuals be maintained, regardless of the increasing grade level.
We would never walk into a classroom with twenty pairs of shoes, all in size 5, expecting all the children to fit into them because they are all the same age. So why then, do we walk into classrooms with resources and outcomes, assuming they will "fit" all children, because they are all the same age? It would be near impossible to create individualized resources for every single student. I am completely aware of this. However, I do feel that the resources that are out there should try and present the concepts in as many ways possible, so as to include more and more types of learners and interests, giving all children the best possible chance at learning. With that being said, the best resource we have as teachers is ourselves. We need to be constantly connected to, and in tune with our students' needs. Regardless of what these resources have to offer, we should not feel limited in our abilities to reach every single child in our class. We are not limited by resources- we are limited by our creativity. So, if Jimmy doesn't seem to be responding to one particular method- toss it! I apologize for the cliche, but "the world is our oyster". Today's technology allows us more information and resources at our fingertips than ever before. It is our responsibility as teachers to get out there, get to know our students, and find a way to make it work. The success of our students depends upon it!
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