The curriculum for the 3 day program will consist of:
* "Writing without tears"/ Student Writing Intensive
program by Andrew Pudewa
* Problem-Centered Math Lab
* Pre-algebra skills
* Spanish
* Science
* Physical Fitness
* Visual and Performing Arts
* Logic
* Speech/Debate
****Literature and History will be studied during home days.
Developing Mathematical Understanding: What is “Problem-centered Math” ?
A growing body of evidence from the cognitive sciences supports the theory that students can make sense of mathematics if the concepts and skills are embedded within a context or problem. If time is spent exploring interesting mathematics situations, reflecting on solution methods, examining why the methods work, comparing methods, and relating methods to those used in previous situations, then students are likely to build more robust understanding of mathematical concepts and related procedures. This method is quite different from the assumption that students learn by observing a teacher as he or she demonstrates how to solve a problem and then practices that method on similar problems.
During Math Lab:
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Classroom instruction focuses on inquiry and investigation of mathematical ideas embedded in rich problem situations.
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The key mathematical goals are elaborated, exemplified, and connected through the problems in an investigation.
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Ideas are explored through these tasks in the depth necessary to allow students to make sense of them. Superficial treatment of an idea produces shallow and short-lived understanding and does not support making connections among ideas.
What about basic skills?
Mastery of basic math skills
is essential. Algorithims and working with mathematical formulas
will also be taught. Students should seek mastery of math skills
in addition to an understanding of how math applies to other areas
of study and life.
What is a quality science curriculum?
A quality science curriculum
pares down the content. But it also engages students in science
and the real world and provides time for students to communicate
their thoughts and understanding.
Here's an example of new vs.
old ways of thinking about science: In a typical high school biology
class, students might mistakenly believe plants get their food from
the soil. The teacher assigns a paper chromatography experiment
and has students memorize a definition for photosynthesis. A more
effective method would be for students to discuss their understanding
of photosynthesis, complete relevant lab investigations and compare
their thoughts to what they learned in the lab. Students could then
explain photosynthesis in their own words, demonstrating their understanding
of the concept, not just the technical terminology.
The new process takes time, but it has a much better chance of resulting in mastery of the subject.
What is “inquiry-centered” science?
“Inquiry-centered” science is sometimes
referred to as “hands-on” science. Research indicates that science
knowledge is best acquired by children (and adults) in a hands-on
experimental environment where they can make their own discoveries.
The steps of this learning cycle are:
Focus – Explore and clarify the ideas that children already have about the topic.
Explore – Enable children to engage in hands-on explorations of the objects, organisms, and science phenomena to be investigated.
Reflect – Encourage children discuss their observations and reconcile their ideas.
Apply – Help children discuss and apply their new ideas in new situations.
