MATHEMATICS CURRICULUM RATIONALE
Mathematics is the foundation of science and technology. Everyone needs
mathematics in order to function in society and the world of work. Therefore, our
district curriculum reflects the understanding that mathematical literacy is
important for all students to possess and apply. The curriculum, based on the
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Standards and the Missouri Show Me
Standards, will allow our students to explore, discover, analyze and apply
mathematics. Our students will learn from a variety of teaching techniques and
strategies which utilize all modes of learning, involving various resources, hands-on
activities, audiovisual aides, and the use of computer technology and calculators.
Our students will be prepared to function in a global society through the use
of problem solving, communication, and reasoning by integrating the mathematical
concepts across the curriculum areas in real-world situations.
ELEMENTARY MATHEMATICS
KINDERGARTEN
Rationale:
Kindergarten mathematics promotes the development of skills that are the
foundation of mathematics covered in the primary and intermediate grades.
Kindergarten children need to learn through play, shared literature, vocabulary
activities, lots of hands-on activities and problem solving opportunities.
Course Content:
The kindergarten child is introduced to the world of mathematics. They explore the
beginning concepts of number sense, reasoning, problem solving, connections,
geometric and spatial sense, patterns and relationships, data analysis, number
theory and discrete mathematics. In kindergarten, the students learn to recognize
and work with numbers, count, explore patterns, geometric shapes, explore graphs,
charts, identify money, tell time and do discrete mathematics.
v
GRADE 1
Rationale:
First grade students continue to develop their skill awareness of mathematics. In
first grade, students focus on number sense concepts in various counting, graphing,
and patterning activities. The understanding of numbers helps them develop the
skills for addition, subtraction, place value, money measurement, geometry,
fractions and telling time.
GRADE 2
Rationale:
The second grade math curriculum is designed to build upon and extend skills
learned in both kindergarten and grade one. It is designed to introduce skills
needed for everyday living such as telling time, learning different kinds of
measurement, and money skills. The second grade curriculum provides for critical
thinking and problem solving. Its goal is to lay a ground-work for those skills
needed in third grade.
Course Content:
Students in second grade increase their awareness and skill in solving problems that
have two and three digit numbers. They study the relationship of fractional parts to
the whole. At this grade level they further utilize the variety of mental and
estimation strategies to solve for the approximate value of a problem where the
exact answer is not necessary. They further explore geometrical concepts and
measurement in the real world. The second grade curriculum prepares students
for work in third grade.
GRADE 3
Rationale:
The third grade student develops a stronger grasp of how to work with numbers,
develop a stronger grasp of geometric properties, relationships, and spatial sense,
stronger understanding of data analysis, probability and statistics, patterns and
relationships.
vi
Course Content:
In third grade students develop an understanding of how basic arithmetic
operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division are related to one
another. They can demonstrate an understanding of how to expand a variety of
numerical and geometric patterns and they have a stronger understanding of
geometric properties, relationships and spatial sense. The use of technology is
further explored and incorporated into lessons. The third grade curriculum
prepares students for work in fourth grade.
GRADE 4
Rationale:
Fourth grade builds upon mathematical competence from the primary grades.
Students make connections to the real world as problem solvers and
communicators. This grade level continues to encourage critical thinking,
computations and the integration of technology.
Course Content:
In grade four, students utilize number order and number relationships to the
seventh digit, demonstrate and develop and understanding of place value to the
seventh digit, further develop the understanding of estimation and rounding, delve
deeper into graphing, and use multiplication and division. Fourth grade students
explore mathematics as consumers, calculating money problems using real life
situations.
GRADE 5
Rationale:
Students in grade five continue to build their knowledge and understanding of
mathematical concepts, operations and procedures.
Course Content:
Grade five mathematics continues to require students to acquire a knowledge of
numbers and number relationships and to make the connection with quantitative
information encountered in the daily lives. This grade level’s course of study will
include work with numbers to the sixth digit, making estimations, using decimals,
working with coordinates, various units of measurement, geometry, factors and
multiples, ratios and proportions, graphs and statistics.
vii
GRADE 6
Rationale:
The 6th grade mathematics course is student-centered and will allow students to
explore, discover, conjecture and apply mathematics. It has a multi-faceted focus,
including, problem solving, critical thinking, computation and the integration of
technology. These components are an important part of each student’s educational
experience. They provide a coherent viewpoint that mathematics is more than a
body of knowledge it is a way of thinking.
Course Content:
Through numerous and interrelated mathematical experiences, students will work
to attain the following goals: Become mathematical problem solvers, communicate
mathematically, reason mathematically, connect mathematics to their daily lives,
develop confidence in their own abilities to do mathematics, and appreciate and
understand the role of mathematics in real-world situations. Teachers will utilize a
variety of techniques a such as direct instruction, cooperative learning and
appropriate use of computers and calculator.
GRADE 7
Rationale:
7th grade mathematics is designed to prepare all students for the study of higher
mathematics by making sure they possess understanding as well as proficiency in
many areas. These areas include geometry, statistics, data analysis, probability,
discrete mathematics, problem solving, and mathematical systems. Students will
see, understand, and appreciate the connections between mathematics and their real
lives.
Course Content:
Students will analyze and demonstrate an understanding of computations and
estimations utilizing the properties in the mathematical systems. They will interpret
and differentiate various geometrical shapes and attributes, and evaluate
relationships involving measurement. Students will collect, organize, and interpret
data to make informed decisions and predictions based on data gathered and
analyzed. Students will also demonstrate graph theory, counting techniques, and
decision making which involve the study of points, ideas, and objects that are
separate and distinct. Finally, students will represent how mathematics and the
study of numbers connect among number systems, algebra, geometry, and
trigonometry.
viii
Pre-Algebra
Rationale:
Pre-Algebra is a course designed to help students relate and apply algebraic
concepts to geometry, statistics, data analysis, probability, discrete mathematics,
and problem solving. The course will be conducive to real world and career
applications.
Students will be encouraged to communicate and reason
mathematically and to see the value of their mathematics.
Course Content:
In the Pre-Algebra course, students will collect, organize, and interpret data,
making informed predictions and interpretations based on information gathered
and analyzed. Students will also demonstrate graph theory, counting techniques,
matrices, and decision making involving the study of points, ideas, and objects that
are separate or distinct. In addition, students will interpret and differentiate
various geometrical shape attributes and evaluate relationships involving
measurement. The student will analyze and demonstrate an understanding of
computations and estimations utilizing the properties of the mathematical system.
Finally, the student will recognize how mathematics and the study of numbers
connect among number systems, geometry, and trigonometry.
ALGEBRA B
Rationale:
A course is needed for students needing Algebra I, who are high school, grades 9-11.
This course gives students a stronger background in the types of mathematical
reasoning and problem solving that will be important for their future as well as
allows for additional type to develop stronger understanding.
Course Content:
This course is a year long course that covers the topics covered in second semester
Algebra I. Algebra B allows students more review time in the completion of a
beginning high school mathematics class.
ALGEBRA I
Rationale:
The purpose of the Algebra I course is to give students a strong background in the
types of mathematical reasoning and problem solving that will be important in their
future. It introduces a student to many areas of mathematics and logical thought.
It allows students to better understand the language and abstract symbols of
mathematics and how to use that language in real-life applications.
ix
Course Content:
This course includes properties and operations in the real number system,
writing and solving equations and inequalities, operations with polynomials,
Special products and factoring, simplification or algebraic fractions, graphing with
rectangular coordinates, solving systems of linear equations and practical
applications illustrated through word problems.
ALGEBRA II
Rationale:
The purpose of Algebra II is to extend the base of Algebra I and be a bridge to
further mathematical studies. It is a continuation of Algebra I with an introduction
to imaginary numbers, radials, and extended practice in Algebra. It is a necessary
class to higher mathematics and pre college testing.
Course Content:
Algebra II covers a brief review of fundamentals of Algebra I. The same principals
are used in solving more difficult and complex problems. Various ways are shown
for solving a quadratic equation and simultaneous equations with three or more
unknowns. The students will work with rational numbers, real numbers, irrational
numbers, functions and equalities.
PRACTICAL MATH
Rationale:
This course prepares students for actual life experiences with mathematics. This is
a practical course designed for students who need a third year of math.
Course Content:
Practical mathematics is a strong review of the basics of mathematics in connection
with real world problems. This course is offered to students in grades 11 and 12
who have attempted both Pre-Algebra and Algebra I.
x
GEOMETRY
Rationale:
The purpose of Geometry is to assist students in problem solving, develop logical
thinking skills and recognize geometric relationships and properties.
Geometry combines plane and Euclidean Geometry. Emphasis is on understanding
the deductive reasoning process which involves the student in writing proofs of
theorems and giving geometric relationships by reasoning from accepted facts to a
conclusion.
Course Content:
Geometry introduces the student to a parallel to Algebra series of mathematics.
Geometry emphasizes thought and problem solving in plane figures. This course is
offered to students, grades 9-12, having a C+ semester average or above in 8th grade
Algebra I or who have received high school credit for Algebra I.
Geometry is recommended for college bound students and those planning to take
Algebra II.
TRIGONOMETRY
Rationale:
Trigonometry is the study of triangles and angles. This course provides knowledge
that is necessary for students who wish to pursue a career in the technical areas
including engineering.
Course Content:
Trigonometry is an advanced course in mathematics covering a study of triangles
and angles. The prerequisite course is Algebra II. This course is necessary for
students going to college.
MATH ANALYSIS
Rationale:
Math Analysis is a study of sequences, series, rational roots, and complex numbers.
This course places high emphasis on higher level thinking skills necessary for the
world of technology.
xi
Course Content:
Math Analysis is an equivalent to College Algebra. This course is for students
planning to attend college or wanting additional work in Algebra.
This course is ½ credit offered to students in grade 11 and 12. The Prerequisite
course is Algebra II.
STATISTICS
Rationale:
Statistics is a study of data and an analysis of the results.
Course Content:
This course is an ending high school class or replaces statistics in college.
Basic statistical principles will be covered. The prerequisite course is Algebra II.
DISCRETE MATH
Rationale:
Discrete math is the study of logic, probability and graph theory. This course is
necessary for students entering the college level, future technical careers, using
graphs and statistics.
Course Content:
The course, Discrete Math, includes many different topics in mathematics that lie
outside the courses offered in mathematics. This course is an ending mathematics
course and covers discrete math taught at the college level. Algebra II is the
prerequisite course for students taking Discrete Math.
CALCULUS
Rationale:
Calculus culminates the high school mathematics program. It calls upon all the
skills and information acquired in previous years with an emphasis on Algebra.
xii
Course Content:
Calculus is the most advanced course offered in high school mathematics.
This course allows the college bound student to begin his or her course plan while in
high school. The prerequisite course is Trigonometry or concurrent enrollment in
Trigonometry with written teacher approval. This course is offered to high school
seniors. Students will enroll for college credit second semester of the course if they
choose college credit as an option.
PERSONAL FINANCE
Rationale:
This course covers more advanced arithmetic in accordance with living skills.
Course Content:
Personal Finance is a course to aid in life spending and saving. Part of the course
will involve making decisions and preparing students for financial independence.
Emphasis in the course is on finance directly after high school in college and life
situations. The prerequisite course is Geometry with Algebra II recommended.
xiii