Common Core Integrated Math

This year the Berryessa School District completes our transition to Common Core instructional standards.  I have previously written about these new standards and the new tests that come along with it.  However, this is the year that middle school math takes the plunge.

Common Core standards rely less on students memorizing math facts and more on gaining a deeper understanding of the concepts behind formulas and calculations.  In the traditional mathematics model, students might have done well on tests because they learned the mechanics of math, but they didn't build a strong foundation for applying math to real life problems in the future.  This is the reason that many students, even those who do well in math class, claim to "hate math" and are less likely to pursue careers in science and technology.

Common core math will build that foundational understanding of mathematical concepts.  At the middle and high school level, this means going away from the traditional sequence of math instruction.  No longer will students take algebra, followed by geometry and algebra II.  All of these subjects will be covered at various levels of complexity each year.  And the curriculum is taught in a more interactive way.  Students learn better when they learn in groups, do more hands-on projects, and teach each other.  That is the way Common Core math will be taught in our middle schools.

Our district, in conjunction with the East Side Alliance, is transitioning to this new math approach.  This is the final year during which some 8th grade students will have the option to take geometry so that they can complete pre-calculus courses by the end of 10th grade.  The East Side Union High School District will be offering Algebra II next year to incoming 9th graders who take geometry this year.  Starting next year, students will be able to accelerate in the Common Core Curriculum so that those who are eligible can take High School Integrated Math II (10th grade level) in 9th grade.

Common Core integrated math is an exciting new approach to math instruction and will provide students with a strong foundation for 21st century careers.