The Elementary Mathematics Information Bulletin for Administrators has been designed to enable administrators to support teachers in implementing a quality mathematics program. In particular, this document:
Background
Core Curriculum Plans for Implementation (Sask Ed, 1987) laid the foundation for the changes outlined by Saskatchewan Education in response to the emerging needs of the K-12 system. Charting the Course: A Guide for Revising the Mathematics Program in the Province of Saskatchewan (Sask Ed, 1990) addressed the general goals of mathematics education, some of the key issues that must be considered in reviewing the mathematics program, as well as changes that need to be made in the elementary program in Saskatchewan.
Rationale for Course Change
The Elementary Mathematics Curriculum is centered around the philosophy of real-life problem solving, the active involvement of students, and the use of a variety of appropriate resources. Previously, computation and other traditional student skills and classroom practices have had extensive focus. This has limited the amount of time teachers devoted to the applications of mathematics and to developing the skills and understandings necessary for students' future success. Therefore, the curriculum is designed to promote the following key changes:
- problem solving drives the curriculum and is incorporated in every strand of mathematics;
- the use of multiple resources;
- the application of mathematics to real life;
- the active involvement of students in their learning, including the extensive use of manipulatives;
- the application of estimation and mental arithmetic strategies;
- the use of calculators as tools for learning and doing mathematics; and,
- an integrated approach to the teaching of mathematics.
