Investigating NCTM Standards and Curriculum Focal Points
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) has been instrumental in providing teachers with information to effectively link research to practice. NCTM published Principles and Standards for School Mathematics in 2000 and Curriculum Focal Points in 2006. In this module, you will explore Principles and Standards for School Mathematics and Curriculum Focal Points for Grades 5-8 and compare and contrast NCTM to your state curriculum. You will also analyze how the curriculum builds and aligns from Grades 5-8 and how both Content and Process Strands are important to incorporate into your teaching. In addition, you will use a graphic organizer to focus intentionally on concept attainment and mathematical literacy.
Topic 1-A: Introduction to NCTM Standards and Focal Points
Topic 1-B: Exploring Vertical Alignment for Grades 5-8
Topic 1-C: Instructional Strategy — Using the Frayer Model
Module One Objectives
At the completion of this module, you will be able to:
- Name the five content and process strands for Geometry recommended by the NCTM
- Explain how Content and Process are interwoven
- Describe the similarities and differences between the NCTM standards and your state standards
- Give concrete examples of how Geometry concepts build from grade 5 to grade 8
- Generate ideas for using a Frayer model with your students for concept attainment