OSD Mathematics Pedagogy
The goal of Mathematics instruction at the Oxnard School District is for every student to learn math to the highest level. To do so, we believe we must challenge our assumptions about what students know and are able to do. Teachers in OSD provide opportunities in Mathematics for students to engage deeply with mathematical ideas by incorporating the Eight Standards for Mathematical Practice, found in the CA Mathematics Framework, into all mathematical learning. The Standards for Mathematical Practice describe varieties of expertise that mathematics educators at all levels should seek to develop in their students. These practices rest on important “processes and proficiencies” with longstanding importance in mathematics education. The Mathematical Practices drive students to think and engage deeply with math and are the basis for mathematics instruction and learning. These 8 Standards of Mathematical Practice develop the overarching habits of mind of a productive mathematical thinker.
The Oxnard School District believes that Mathematics is a creative, collaborative subject that demands students communicate with each other and become critical thinkers in order to solve problems. Students engage in tasks that allow for multiple entry points and varied solution strategies. These tasks promote discourse among students and build a shared understanding of different mathematical ideas through the analysis and comparison of the various student approaches and arguments. This student engagement in mathematics that is based on critical thinking, creativity, communication and collaboration, are the 4C's of 21st Century Skills in education. The use of specific, district approved websites serve to solidify conceptual understanding through small group instruction and mini-lessons, and provide rigorous interactive opportunities.
The Oxnard School District also believes in the tenants of Growth Mindset Mathematics. Mistakes are valuable and help us grow our brains. We don't know it YET! Math is about depth, and not about speed. Math is a flexible, conceptual subject that is about thinking and sense making.
In order to fulfill this mathematical pedagogy, it is the district's expectation: 1) That all teaching professionals work collaboratively within and across grade levels as they support the essential components of students' visual and conceptual mathematics learning, and 2) In order to monitor mathematical growth, all teaching professionals implement data driven instructional decision-making and evidence based practices for mathematics instruction.