Math Works
Math Works is a program designed for students in grades 2-7 to develop and master
the skills in the Maryland State Voluntary Curriculum which are assessed on the
Maryland State Assessment (MSA). The skills taught in class are tightly correlated
to every skill at each grade level that students across the state are required to
know.
Math Works was developed by 2002 Maryland State Teacher of the Year, Linda Eberhart.
After Linda’s 5th grade students at Mt. Royal Elementary performed highest in the
state of Maryland on the state wide math assessment in 1999 and 2000, Linda began
creating math materials for students and sharing best teaching practices with teachers
from across Baltimore City and the state of Maryland.
With Math Works, students will be exposed to skills in different ways. Students
are doing hands-on work with manipulatives to understand math concepts and are being
exposed to a wide range of skills (please see the grade level list of skills in
the state curriculum). We need the support of parents to help make math meaningful
to students. Ask your child to explain what they are learning. Help them see real
world applications. For example, when cooking, explain how to measure and covert
measurements. Identify and describe geometric shapes in your world. Practice basic
facts at home with flashcards. Ask your child to explain what they are doing on
their homework practice.
Students have homework every night (Fridays too!) that reviews the skills students
are expected to know. Homework is in a new format with a variety of skills. Teachers
are helping students with homework before they leave class each day and students
will quickly adjust to this new method of homework. Students always have an opportunity
to revise all homework and classwork assignments so as they learn skills, they can
fix mistakes and learn from them as they progress.