Math Manipulatives

Cal Young Middle School

This project involves using a math program, connecting with 6th grade students who are currently below grade level in math. The curriculum is based on current research on how students learn math and provides challenging contexts to engage students as they explore mathematical ideas. Funds from EEF will be used to purchase the hand-on manipulatives needed to fully implement the curriculum.

Why is this project important?

This project is important to help struggling math students increase their math understanding and achievement in math. Traditionally, students who struggle with math have been placed in classes where they continue to review basic arithmetic. Current research in math education has shown that instead, these students should explore sophisticated mathematical concepts through challenging curriculum. The use of hands-on maniupulatives provides students with concrete experiences to help develop an understanding of abstract ideas. In addition, middle school is a critical period for students to develop attitudes about math and confidence in their ability to do math. The use of manipulatives empowers students to actively solve problems, this improves attitude and increases confidence. Math becomes something they can do, not a mysterious process that causes frustration.

Who and how many will be served?

The program will serve 6th grade students enrolled in Math 6B at Cal Young. This class for below grade level students currently has 24 students. Materials to be purchased are non-consumable so they will continue to be used in subsequent years. In addition, the manipulatives can be shared with the learning center and other math teachers in the building.

How will you evaluate the success of this project?

Several data sources will be used to evaluate the success of the project: Student journals will be reviewed for evidence of student understanding of concepts Student performance on tests and quizzes will provide data about how well students are mastering math concepts Student performance on practice Problem solving work samples from the State of Oregon will be used to determine whether students can apply their knowledge in new situations
Student attitudes toward math will be measured using a survey

Does this proposal build upon existing programs at your school?

This program provides the foundation for students success in 7th and 8th grade math. The curriculum addresses both the National Council of Teachers in Mathematics (NCTM) benchmarks and the State of Oregon Math standards. The program is particularly rich in opportunities for problem solving in real-life contexts providing students with the practice they need to be successful on the problem-solving portion of the state math test in 8th grade. In addition, this program philosophically aligns math curriculum and science curriculum at Cal Young, like science, this math program involves students in hands-on experiences that provide the framework for understanding complex ideas.

How will the funds be spent?

All funds will be used to purchase class sets of math manipulatives.