West Coast: Math Coursework

By: Kate Watts

On Wednesday I spent a great deal of time speaking with students about math instruction. The students who excel at math reported that exceptions were made to the rule that students remain with their classes and were able to take classes with upper classmates, but they would not receive credit. If they exceed what is offered at their school they move to college courses. For students who do not excel at math they find the math classes frustrating. They report that there is little direct instruction.  Students are given worksheets and are expected to work in their groups to work towards solutions. They would prefer a model of one half hour of direct instruction and then on half hour of group work. Students who still need help are able to access one on one tutoring with more advanced students after school.