From+the+Facilitators



Since the adoption of the new Common Core Learning Standards by the NYS Board of Regents, it has become even more apparent that in order for students to succeed and be college and career ready the students must be able to apply mathematical concepts to real world problems. What better forum to achieve this, than to collaborate with science colleagues!

In the course of developing and implementing this project for Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES, we learned that our students are often presented with different vocabulary and different understandings of the same terminology and its application. We noted similarities and discrepancies, with an eye toward assisting the students as they navigate both disciplines.

After lively discussion and collaboration, teams consisting of math and science teachers created a bank of twenty–two model lessons. These lessons integrate Algebra I, Geometry or Algebra II/Trigonometry with Earth Science, Living Environment, Chemistry or Physics courses. The lessons will be used with students this school year and refined as needed.

Sometimes the initial activity was science based and sometimes math based, but in essence the mathematics became the tool for better understanding of both math and science. Overall, the lessons model effective ways to incorporate the CCLS and can assist in the development of a unit of study incorporating them. The lessons will partially meet the NYSED requirement of developing two models that use the CCLS for mathematics during each semester of this school year 2011- 2012.


 * ~ Mrs. Eleanore Livesey and Dr. Helen Pashley**