Progression of Math Understanding

The Idaho Standards for Mathematics are designed to support student understandings of the mathematical concepts in each grade level.  As learners experience Mathematics in each grade, new concepts are built upon previous understandings and experiences.  In the elementary years, learners are experiencing and building an understanding of how numbers and shapes work together which then begins to develop procedural processes.  Thus, making the "why" in learning mathematics just as important as the "how."  They are working to make sense of the numbers and reasoning in mathematics while at the same time focusing on accuracy and efficiency in solving problems. 

The following progression videos show how concepts build throughout the grade levels and what they look and sound like. Click to access more Progression of Understanding Video Resources. 

Manipulatives, or Math Tools, are utilized in the classroom to provide learners with a hands on visual of the mathematics. These tools help them make sense of, communicate, and solve various problems. It is important that tools are available as learners begin to conceptualize mathematical ideas. Tools are a crucial piece of mathematical development.