Mathematics Curriculum
The Mathematics component of the New York City Curriculum consists of strategically designed programs that balance conceptual understanding and skill proficiency. Problem solving is the focus of this instruction and students are taught mathematical reasoning instead of memorization. Close alignment with the Common Core Learning Standards encourages investigations, real-world experiences, and hands-on learning. Students develop and use all of the Standards of Mathematical Practice throughout the curriculum. Assessments are integrated into the instructional programs to support learning. Students in grades 6-9 will have double periods of mathematics instruction.
Connected Mathematics 3, developed by Pearson Education applies a research-proven instructional approach that engages students in active learning and focuses on skill development through conceptual understanding, problem solving and reasoning, rather than facts and procedures. Grade 8 Honors students will take Common Core Algebra I this year. Students who meet the qualifications will take the Algebra Regents in June.
In addition to Connected Mathematics 3, students in grades 6-8 will also be working in the Carnegie Learning Math Series where they will embark on a journey as “powerful problem solvers.” Mathematics is the key to many future opportunities, and this series will help students learn a range of mathematical ideas – from number to algebra, and from geometry to statistics –that are useful in many professions and careers.
Our high school curriculum for grade 9 will consist of a 4 term sequence of Common Core Algebra I. Students will take the Algebra Regents in June. The curriculum focuses on: algebra, geometry, measurement, data analysis, and probability. The program offers many ancillary materials to supplement instruction. In addition, each teacher receives a class set of graphing calculators. All mathematics programs use both standardized and multiple assessments. The multiple assessments consist of observations, anecdotal and performance tasks or extended projects.
All students in grades 6-8 will take the New York State Mathematics exam in April and May.
New York State P-12
Common Core Learning Standards for Mathematics
Junior High School 157 has transitioned to the NY State P-12 Common Core Learning Standards (CCLS). By 2014-15, New York State Assessments will change to reflect the NYS P-12 Common Core Learning Standards, which are the compilation of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and the additional standards developed by the NY State Department of Education (NYSED). The new state assessments, expected to be operational in 2014-15, will focus on measuring deeper levels of thinking, and will therefore be more predictive of college and career readiness, and reflect the demands of the 21st century. The standards are fewer and more rigorous, preparing all students for success in graduating from high school. The deep learning of mathematical concepts is emphasized.
The Common Core State Standards for Mathematical practice include:
1. Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.
2. Reason abstractly and quantitatively.
3. Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.
4. Model with mathematics.
5. Use appropriate tools strategically.
6. Attend to precision.
7. Look for and make use of structure.
8. Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.
