Roberts has quite a few special programs above and beyond the normal state mandated curriculum.
CURRICULUM FEATURES
There are a number of features that distinguish the Everyday Mathematics curriculum. These include:
Real-life Problem Solving
Everyday Mathematics emphasizes the application of mathematics to real world situations. Numbers, skills and mathematical concepts are not presented in isolation, but are linked to situations and contexts that are relevant to everyday lives. The curriculum also provides numerous suggestions for incorporating mathematics into daily classroom routines and other subject areas.
Balanced Instruction
Each Everyday Mathematics lesson includes time for whole-group instruction as well as small group, partner, or individual activities. These activities balance teacher-directed instruction with opportunities for open-ended, hands-on explorations, long-term projects and on-going practice.
Multiple Methods for Basic Skills Practice
Everyday Mathematics provides numerous methods for basic skills practice and review. These include written and choral fact drills, mental math routines, practice with fact triangles (flash cards of fact families), daily sets of review problems called Math Boxes, homework, timed tests and a wide variety of math games.
Emphasis on Communication
Throughout the Everyday Mathematics curriculum students are encouraged to explain and discuss their mathematical thinking, in their own words. Opportunities to verbalize their thoughts and strategies give children the chance to clarify their thinking and gain insights from others.
The Roberts Science Lab is an inquiry driven classroom for the students to have the opportunity to be in control of their own learning. The lab is an extension of what is being taught in their classroom and both the science teacher and classroom teacher work together in the lab to make this connection as authentic as possible. Grades 2-5 record their learning in their Science Notebook (SNB). The SNB is set up just as the brain is; each ‘hemisphere’ of the SNB stores information differently. The left side of the SNB reflects what the students have learned in their own way-through pictures, cartoons, maps, brainstorming, lyrics or timelines. The right side of the SNB is where the students jot any factual information such as vocabulary words and definitions or answers to questions from their textbook. K and 1st graders keep their ideas flowing through multiple sensory activities and finish with a picture or activity to reinforce what they inquired about in lab. The science lab and grade level teachers co-teach each lab to ensure the objectives and goals are met and so the classroom teacher can develop further the ideas when they return to their classroom. The science lab is not only a place for the students to be exposed to science tools or the scientific method, but just as importantly, they will be guided in figuring out different problem solving strategies and ways to find their answers. Hopefully, this will teach them to enjoy and relish the experience as much as finding the answer!
More information coming soon...
More info coming soon about the style of writing teaching that Ms. Cook etc. were trained in.
