Math

Mathematical instruction at Saint Thomas More Catholic School incorporates number sense, computation fluency, use of manipulatives for application of mathematical concepts, comprehension, and problem-solving. Beginning in Kindergarten, teachers use Dreambox Learning to help students become efficient problem solvers with critical thinking, reasoning, and communication skills to master 21st-century challenges. This interactive software custom delivers supplemental math instruction on an individual level to accelerate their progress. 

Kindergarten – 5th grade: Students in Kindergarten through 5th grade learn specific mathematical practices to develop strong number sense, concrete attachment to the abstraction number, and problem-solving skills. Teachers utilize a variety of materials to ensure mathematical success for all students. Students work through the Sadlier series Progress in Mathmatics, while at the same time utilizing hands-on manipulatives and other resources to ensure all students are progressing through the Archdiocesan standards successfully.

6th – 8th grade: Applied problem-solving and communicating effectively are incorporated into a curriculum that focuses on numbers and operations, effective measurements, applied geometry, data analysis and probability, and algebra. Students use Sadlier’s Progress in Mathematics, Fundamentals of Algebra, Foundations of Algebra, and the Algebra 1 series of electronic textbooks, as well as a variety of enrichment applications.

Based on the Archdiocesan qualifications for math placement, students in 7th grade are placed in either a general 7th-grade math or pre-Algebra class, and 8th-grade students are placed in either an Advanced Pre-Algebra or Algebra 1 class. Advanced Pre-Algebra students are well prepared for success in Algebra 1 in high school. Algebra 1 students are prepared for placement in either Geometry or Algebra 2 in 9th grade. All students are well prepared for rigorous, college-preparatory high schools.