Resources for parents to support their children's mathematical learning
Math Standards
Links to the MMSD district page which includes Common Core Standards, videos which explain them, a very good article, and info about the WKCE-CRT.
Parent Toolkit
This toolkit has some resources for parents to support their children throughout the K - 12 journery.
Math.com
This site is recommended by the district.
Geoblocks
These wooden blocks are great to build with, but there is an incredible numerical value just beneath the surface. They can be used to reinforce relational thinking, understanding of volume, multiples, factors, fractions . . . available for purchase at eNasco.
Children's Mathematics: Cognitively Guided Instruction
Thomas Carpenter
This book gives a clear understanding how children learn, and why math either makes sense to them or doesn't and how we can think in order to help them.
Teaching Student-Centered Mathematics
John A. Van de Walle
Van de Walle explains how children develop through the Van Hiele levels of understanding, and includes a plethora of dynamic learning activities which support deep thinking.
Thinking Mathematically: Integrating Arithmetic & Algebra in Elementary School
Thomas Carpenter
This book extends nicely from Carpenter's CGI book, and illustrates how basic concepts of algebra should and can be addressed at an early age. For example, understanding what the equal sign really means (and not "the answer comes next") is one that kids should consider in Kindergarten.
Constructivsm
Jean Piaget
Piaget describes how we learn by constructing our understanding of the world.
Zone of Proximal Development
Lev Vygotsky
Vygotsky's "Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) explains how students' ability moves from requiring teacher support in a given skill or understanding towards independence. The student's ZPD develops as the level of what they are able to acheive independently increases. We aim to instruct in each student's ZPD, keeping learning moving along at the pace and challenge level which is just right for the student.
Mathematically Sane
This website contains several articles about mathematics education reform, which date back a few years.