Students engage in symmetry and fraction tasks using pattern blocks.
In an effort to deepen relationships with math by changing the way math is experienced, the Carson City School District, students and teachers (in partnership with Mind Research Institute) will host special events and activities designed to create a passion for fostering mathematical thinking.
All elementary schools in the Carson City School District will observe Math Madness Week Nov. 6 to 9. Students, teachers, parents and families should use the following link: mindresearch.org/carson-city-math-week.
“The students of CCSD will engage in a variety of math activities throughout the week,” said Shannon Slamon, K-12 math curriculum and assessment coordinator for the Carson City School District. “The goal is for students to connect the mathematics they are learning in school to potential careers such as engineering, finance, firefighting and culinary arts.”
Included in the festivities will be a daily math focus with themed dress-up days:
• Manipulative Monday: Students will engage in a variety of symmetry and fraction tasks using pattern blocks. Staff and students are encouraged to dress in their favorite decade.
• Think Time Tuesday: Students and teachers will engage in math games that were created by Mind Research to have fun while learning core math strategies. The dress-up day for Tuesday is Math is my SuperPower Day.
• Web Wednesday: Students will solve multistep word problems using AVID strategies. Staff and students are asked to dress in their dream math career attire.
• Thrilling Thursday: Students will utilize youcubed activities that focus on a positive math mindset. Staff and students can dress up in clothing with their favorite game or number.
“A team of teachers from the elementary schools in the Carson City School District collaborated to create exciting activities for students, staff and parents that encourage celebrating mathematics,” Slamon indicated.
According to Mind Research, “When we change the narrative of when, where, how and how often we engage with math during annual week-long observances such as Math Madness Week, we can change preconceived attitudes for parents and families and ultimately create more long-lasting positive math experiences and culture for students that supports their mathematical appreciation and allows them to become drivers of innovation.”
Studies show that by 2024, there will be more than 9 million jobs in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, and that these positions are expanding faster than non-STEM jobs. Additionally, studies have shown that critical thinking and problem-solving skills developed using rigorous mathematics curricula can play a big role in building students' confidence and leadership abilities.