Program:
Our program is designed to be a complete mathematical course for each grade level with varying degrees of difficulty. We believe our program will prepare elementary school students for middle school and middle school students for the challenges of high school. It will help children excel at grade level math as well as advanced topics, prepare them for advanced placement tests and subsequently SATs. Most of all, the program will exercise their minds, instill a love and appreciation of math, show the value of hard work, eliminate math phobia and help kids on the road to their future success.
Our curriculum is based on Primary Mathematics (Grades 1 through 6) and New Elementary Mathematics (Grades 7 through 8) - also known as Singapore Math.
"Singapore Math" is a term that often refers to math curriculum used in Singaporean schools and one of the major reasons Singaporean students have ranked among the top performing on the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) since 1995. Westchester Math Lab curriculum is further enriched by additional material found in other programs, popular among math teachers and educators in the United States and other countries.
Most important characteristics of the program are:
- Aligned with NCTM Curriculum Focal points. NCTM Focal points is a set of guidelines, offered by National Council of Teachers of Mathematics that identify most important mathematical topics at each grade level, Pre-K through grade 8.
- Based on concrete to pictorial to abstract progression of representing mathematical concepts.
- Builds deep understanding and mastery of each mathematical concept through pen and paper exercises, word problems, visualization and repetition.
- Emphasizes mental computational skills and logical reasoning.
- Every new concept is built upon previously learned material. Every skill is thoroughly practiced and applied to the concepts introduced next.
- Relevant topics are introduced around the same time. For example multiplication and division are introduced early on because of their relevancy to addition and subtraction.
- Stresses independent thinking and problem solving.
- Emphasizes connection between all the mathematical concepts through continuous application of skills to more advanced problems.
- Possesses flexibility that enables teachers to challenge more advanced students while allowing others absorb material at a slower pace.
For more detailed grade level curriculum, lesson structure, homework and testing information please, visit our Curriculum page.