Connected Mathematics
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Connected Mathematics is a comprehensive, problem-centered curriculum designed for all students in grades 6-8 based on the NCTM standards. Each grade level curriculum is a full-year program, and in each of the three grade levels, topics of number, algebra, geometry/measurement, probability and statistics are covered in an increasingly sophisticated manner. The program seeks to make connections within mathematics, between mathematics and other subject areas, and to the real world. The curriculum is divided into units, each of which contains investigations with major problems that the teacher and students explore in class. Extensive problem sets are included for each investigation to help students practice, apply, connect, and extend these understandings. CM follows the TERC investigations into junior high and middle school.
CM has been criticized by advocates of traditional mathematics as being particularly ineffective, though it is supported by a base of research.
[edit] Examples
The first of the sixth grade booklets is Prime Time. This booklet is concerned with prime factorization of whole numbers.
My Special Number: Choose a whole number between 10 and 100 that you especially like. In your Journal:
- Record your number
- Explain why you chose that number
- List three or four mathematical things about your number
- List three or four connections you can make between your number and your world.
"As you work through the investigations in Prime Time, you will learn lots of things about numbers. Think about how these new ideas apply to your special number, and add any new information about your number to your journal. You may want to designate one or two "special number" pages in your journal, where you can record this information. At the end of the unit, your teacher will ask you to find an interesting way to report to the class about your special number. "
Critics point out this exercise take a lot of time and teaches essentially nothing about prime numbers.
[edit] References
[edit] External links
| Standards based mathematics controversy |
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| Constructivist Mathematics: Reform mathematics • Integrated mathematics • Core-Plus Mathematics Project • Focus on Algebra • Investigations in Numbers, Data, and Space • Connected Mathematics • Everyday Mathematics • Mathland • Interactive Mathematics Program (IMP) • WASL Rigorous Traditional Mathematics: Traditional mathematics • Mathematically Correct • David Klein • NYC HOLD • Saxon math • Singapore Math • Modern Curriculum Press • |
