part of teachers or parents.=20
However, with all due respect, the concern about "lagging behind =
teaching standard algorithms and math facts" is not a responsible quest =
for "balance," but an assault on student learning and mathematical =
thinking.
Numerous studies and researchers such as Constance Kamii demonstrate =
that when children are "taught" algorithms they are often deprived of =
actual mathematical understanding. The quest for speed is silly and =
potentially destructive. How fast is fast enough? Why does thinking and =
problem solving need to be quick?
Piaget teaches us that it is the teacher's job to create contexts in =
which children correct themselves from the inside. There is scarce =
evidence, if any at all, that drilling math facts or less constructivist =
approaches to math curricula and pedagogy are more successful than what =
your school is already doing.
I would suggest that your school have more patience and support teachers =
in using the TERC materials with greater confidence rather than =
undermine student learning.
Gary Stager, Ph.D.
On May 25, 2010, at 11:49 AM, Terry Dash wrote:
> Hi -
>=20
> This question is intended for elementary schools using TERC's
> Investigations mathematics curriculum -
>=20
> The Pike School uses TERC in grades K-5. We like the program's
> constructivist approach but know that it lags behind in areas such as
> teaching standard algorithms and math facts/fluency. We are therefore
> looking into activities that supplement TERC in these areas.
>=20
> If you are currently using TERC and you are supplementing in the areas =
of
> standard algorithms or math facts/fluency...
>=20
> * What supplementary materials are you using? Did you develop these
> materials yourselves, or are they publicly available?
>=20
> * How do you use the materials? (10 minutes/day? weekly? in some units
> only?)
>=20
> * If you are using software or online resources as part of your
> supplementary materials, what sites are you using?
>=20
> Thanks in advance,
> Terry
>=20
> . . .
> Terry Dash
> Director of Technology
> Pike School
> 34 Sunset Rock Road
> Andover, MA 01810
> 978.409.6623
>=20
>=20
> [ For info on ISED-L see =
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[ For info on ISED-L see https://www.gds.org/podium/default.aspx?t=3D128874 ]
Submissions to ISED-L are released under a creative commons, attribution, non-commercial, share-alike license.
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