There are lots of elementary math programs out there, but the Bridges math curriculum is part of the select few that reach the highest ratings of the EdReport. In comparison to other programs’ effect size of +0.15, its effectiveness is clearly shown in a study by Alan Cheung and Robert Slavin, where they found that the Bridges math curriculum resulted in an effect size of +0.19 in Grade 4 students.
Adopted by schools worldwide, the curriculum tackles outdated math teaching strategies with three key approaches:
1. Promotes Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
SEL is cultivated through the math curriculum, as communication is a key component towards improving a child’s learning experience.
Students under the curriculum are encouraged to work collaboratively in finding solutions to math problems. As the Bridges math curriculum creates a reliable learning environment, students feel more comfortable with the idea of being wrong during class. This is because there is always someone there (teacher or classmate) to help them find the right answer.
2. Students can discover multiple solutions to one problem
The Bridges math curriculum departs from tradition, encouraging students to find multiple solutions and fostering critical thinking.
In other comprehensive math learning programs, they typically follow the “I do it, We do it, You do it” method, where the students simply memorize one solution to a type of problem, applying that solution repeatedly without truly understanding why/how it works. With the Bridges math curriculum, students discover different ways to solve a problem.
This boosts their critical thinking and creativity, as they work hard to figure out which solution works best for their understanding.
3. Students are ultimately in charge of their learning experience
In this curriculum, teachers guide students to solutions and promote independent learning, rather than just providing answers.
Through leading relevant and substantial discussions, the teacher draws out the thought processes of their students, leading them to discover solutions on their own. Students freely move, engage in hands-on learning, and test their ideas, unconfined to their desks during class.
The Bridges Math Curriculum will captivate students, allowing them to discover math concepts in enjoyable ways. Soon, children will leave behind thoughts like “Math is too hard” forming a generation empowered by math and its relevant skills.
Do you think your kids need help to improve math? MathProject offers math tutoring programs in Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, and even online. The sessions with MathProject’s team of qualified math tutors are always here to help your child achieve excellence in mathematics. Contact us today at 1-844-628-4243 to book a free assessment! For more information on MathProject’s specialized curriculum, visit our website at https://mathproject.ca/.
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Citations:
What you need to know about Bridges in Mathematics – mathlearningcenter.org
Bridges in Mathematics – mathlearningcenter.org
Bridges In Mathematics (2015) – edreports.org
Study Shows Bridges Students Perform Well – mathlearningcenter.org
Popular K-6 Math Curriculum Deemed Unaligned to Common Core – blogs.edweek.org