Welcome to the 2023-2024 school year! A new school year means updates are available in the area of mathematics. Below are a few that are noteworthy. **NEW** 2023 Mathematics Standards of Learning The 2023 Mathematics Standards of Learning were approved by the Virginia Board of Education on August 31, 2023 and will be fully implemented… Read More Math News You Can Use
Using Children’s Literature to Mathematize
The Preparing Young Children for School Educator’s Practice Guide (Burchinal et al., 2022) identifies two evidence-based math recommendations: Provide intentional instruction to build children’s understanding of mathematical ideas and skills. Engage children in conversations about mathematical ideas and support them in using mathematical language. Using children’s literature to mathematize is a method that can be… Read More Using Children’s Literature to Mathematize
Innovative Strategies for VESOL Instruction
On January 18, 2023, T-TAC ODU hosted The VESOL Alliance at the Newport News Marriott. This unique professional learning event offered a range of high-interest sessions and free resources to over 80 attendees from across regions 2 & 3. Our expert presenters shared VESOL-referenced lesson plans that can be used to engage learners of all ages. If you were not able… Read More Innovative Strategies for VESOL Instruction
New VESOL Mathematics Resources Available!
Implementation of the 2021 Mathematics Virginia Essentialized Standards of Learning (VESOLs) has heightened the need for more mathematics resources that can be used by teachers who utilize these standards. Guidance is needed to answer questions such as: 1) What background knowledge is needed in order to effectively teach each math concept? 2) What should students… Read More New VESOL Mathematics Resources Available!
Promoting a Math-Positive School Culture
The beginning of a new school year is a great time to reflect upon practices in your school. Our attitudes about math as teachers and school leaders can have a tremendous impact on our students’ attitudes and views about learning mathematics. Below are two ways that a math-positive culture can be promoted at your school…. Read More Promoting a Math-Positive School Culture
Doing What Works: Five Evidence-Based Strategies to Specially Design Mathematics Instruction
When considering instructional activities for mathematics, teachers should focus on strategies that have evidence to support their effectiveness. The Virginia Department of Education, building on the work of the Institute for Education Sciences (IES), has identified five evidence-based strategies to specially-design mathematics instruction: 1. Explicit Instruction 2. Formal Mathematical Language 3. Concrete, Representational, and Abstract… Read More Doing What Works: Five Evidence-Based Strategies to Specially Design Mathematics Instruction
National PTA Standards for Successful Family-School Partnerships
National PTA Standards for Successful Family-School Partnerships: In an effort to build and sustain positive family-school partnerships, the National PTA has developed six standards focused on ensuring that schools are welcoming, supportive, collaborative, and responsive to families’ needs. This resource outlines the six national school-family partnership standards and provides an implementation guide for each as… Read More National PTA Standards for Successful Family-School Partnerships