Elementary Math Curriculum Update
November 11, 2014
Pearson Lessons in SMART Notebook
Questions for Pearson, especially regarding Realize website
At the most recent PD day, I asked K-3 teachers to compile a list of questions and concerns for Pearson regarding the Realize website. Those questions, along with those I have received from building and PLC visits, are being passed along to Pearson. The beginning of this list of Questions and Answers is being compiled on HowellNET and can be found by clicking: Collaboration, Units and Elem Curric, District Math Information, Realize, or by clicking this link:
All grade levels, please continue to send me any questions you have about Pearson Realize. I will continue to add to this list as I get more information.
Math Pacing
Math Year One Review
- Kindergarten: 2/17 p.m. and 2/26 a.m.
- First Grade: 2/17 a.m. and 2/26 p.m.
- Second Grade: 2/9 p.m. and 2/19 a.m.
- Third Grade 2/9 a.m. and 2/19 p.m.
- Fourth Grade 2/2 p.m. and 2/18 a.m.
- Fifth Grade 2/2 a.m. and 2/18 p.m.
PD FAQs
Collaboration Time
Collaboration time seems to be appreciated and one of the most valuable part of the professional development days for many of our teachers. Many teachers have asked about going back to their buildings for this time. While we will continue to set aside time for teams to collaborate on those days, it will be important that you bring any materials you need as all groups at all levels are expected to stay in their assigned locations.
Some of you have also asked about collaborating with other teams. The collaboration time set aside, generally at the end of your session, is the perfect time for this. You are welcome during this time to meet up with other teams OR work with your own team, or do a bit of both!
Break-Out Sessions
Break-out sessions also seem to be valued by many of our teachers. As long as there are people willing to share their knowledge and experience, we will offer break-out sessions. If you have something that works for you and/or your team, please let Sherri Lorton and/or the presenters for your grade level know. As you know, teachers appreciate anything that makes their lives easier.
Why isn't Pearson presenting on District Days?
Our contract with Pearson included a set amount of professional development days. It was necessary to give teachers training prior to implementation (Spring 2014). Additionally, the majority of our teachers have found the math lesson study to be extremely valuable. Purchasing additional days for coming to our district half-days was not within our budget. The presenters and I will continue to consider your suggestions to make our PD days as beneficial as possible.
Bringing Materials to PD
Some of the items suggested to bring to our half-days are for use during collaboration time. We will be more specific about these items and note which are for use during collaboration time in the future.
Fractions Presentations in Grades 4-5
Many of you commented that they didn't understand why there was a focus on fractions when we don't cover fractions in enVision Math until later in the year. Since we only had one day to focus on math this year, fractions was chosen since it is the biggest change in CCSS for the upper grades. This is such a huge change that it was important for teachers to best understand, or in some cases, be reminded, how students learn these concepts best.
Benchmark Assessment Adjustments
- Kdg: K.CC.5, K.CC.6, K.OA.3
- Grade 1: 1.NBT.2, 1.OA.8
- Grade 2: 2.NBT.1, 2.NBT.3, 2.NBT.5, 2.NBT.8
- Grade 3: 3.OA.3, 3.OA.5
- Grade 4: 4.NBT.5, 4.NBT.6
- Grade 5: 5.NBT.3, 5.NBT.6, 5.NBT.7
If your team made SMART Goals based on this assessment, adjustments can be made to your goals. Please contact your principal, Sherri Lorton, and/or Bryan Williams if you have questions about this transition.
Assessments to Enter in Mastery Connect
For questions about information in this newsletter, please contact Dr. Sherri Lorton
Email: sherri.lorton@fhsdschools.org
Location: District Learning Center, Howell High Campus, 1405 Hwy D, St. Charles, MO 63304
Phone: 636.851.5328
Twitter: @sherrilorton