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The math program consists of six fundamental standards based on the California State Mathematics Framework as outlined below. Throughout the Elementary School, many classes utilize a variety of mathematical activities to introduce and reinforce concepts outlined in the scope and sequence of skills presented in Investigations in Number, Data and Space (kindergarten through fourth grade). This program enables students to explore and develop many strategies for solving problems in order to foster mathematical understanding. Emphasis is placed on open-ended experiences, simulations, cooperative learning tasks, and assessments that ask students to reason and support their strategies for answers to problems. Through sharing these strategies with one another, children develop a deeper understanding of number relationships. Often through their explanations they see where their thinking went astray or how their problem solving could have been more efficient. Standard American algorithms are often introduced as one of many strategies for solving a problem. Investigations of "real life" tasks enable students to use mathematics in effective, meaningful, and interesting ways. Fifth grade students embark upon a program shared by the Middle School.
The six fundamental strands of the Crossroads math program are:
CONCEPTS: A student makes connections among concrete, representational, and abstract ideas. A student can organize and interpret data, select, and use appropriate strategies.
APPLICATIONS: A student reads, understands, and sets forth a plan for solving a problem. A student poses problems, solves problems using different strategies, verifies and interprets results, and generalizes solutions.
COMMUNICATION: A student explains a mathematical process, solution, or application using oral, written, or visual forms, and supports his or her argument with evidence.
MECHANICS: A student demonstrates knowledge of math facts automatically.
SELF-CONCEPT: A student willingly participates, takes the initiative to use math strategies, and reflects on and evaluates the process and results of his or her work.
TECHNOLOGY: A student calculates with calculators or computers, hypothesizes, tests, estimates, handles hardware and software proficiently, and uses appropriate technical terminology. A student explores and investigates technology with boldness and confidence.
Basic "exit outcomes" for mathematical skills have been identified for kindergarten through fifth grade. These exit outcomes are considered the base line for skills acquired as a child completes each grade.
