Grades 6-8 and High School Algebra 1 have entered month two of implementation of our new curriculum, Imagine Learning’s Illustrative Mathematics (IM). Since the decision last spring, educators have been diligently learning the new materials and unpacking the curriculum units with the help of Curriculum Director Kandice McBrearty and Consultant Heidi Sabnani.
Imagine IM is a problem-based curriculum that addresses both the math content standards as well as the Standards for Mathematical Practice. It is written to deepen conceptual understanding and promote student discourse. It is also complementary to our K-5 Bridges in Mathematics curriculum. Both are student-focused curricula where students learn by doing the math and solving problems in mathematical and real-world contexts. Imagine IM provides a Family Hub where families can learn more about:
A video series is also available to provide additional learning opportunities, including insights into how Imagine IM prepares students for success in the real world.
Providing our families with an overview and more information about our new curriculum is important to us. As part of our NRSD Family University, we will offer the following opportunities for families to learn more.
Virtual Coffee Hours to Learn More About IM
October 16th from 9:00 am - 10:00 am
October 20th from 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
To register for either session, click here by Wednesday, October 14th. For those unable to attend, a recording of one of the sessions will be made available after October 23rd.
Grades 9-12 continue to focus on analyzing current practices, course leveling, and advanced course offerings. This year, the department is also exploring HQIM options for Geometry and Algebra 2, and engaging in a department-wide read of Productive Math Struggle: A Six-Point Action Plan for Fostering Perseverance by John J. SanGiovanni, Kevin J. Dykema, and Susie Katt.
As a whole, the grades 6-12 math department continues to make important gains in collaboration and vertical alignment. Teachers across all grade levels are continuing to refine their use of Building Thinking Classrooms strategies, intentionally fostering productive struggle and student engagement to deepen mathematical understanding for each and every student.