QR+Math+Skills+Curriculum


 * //Assumption 1://** //There are basic operations skills that must be mastered in order to succeed in everyday life.//
 * //Assumption 2://** //There are basic "word problems" that correspond with// **every** //useful "math" problem.//

//**About "contextual learning"**//: //Although students must be able to display the following skills in a conventional standardized-test environment, we believe that students will not effectively learn these skills unless they are also represented in their real-world contexts. In order to __truly__ learn these skills, students must see them, recognize them, explore them, discuss them, and use them to understand the real world. Afterwards, if necessary, certain skills can be reinforced using traditional "workbook-style" exercises, but only as a __supplement__ to **__contextual learning__**//.

Recognizing numbers as words to communicate quantity Adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing whole numbers Simplifying expressions that have parentheses Recognizing basic patterns and sequences Exponents and how to use them Order of operations and why we need rules like this one Adding, subtracting, multiplying fractions and mixed numbers Adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing decimal numbers Percents are both fractions and decimals Comparing quantities on a number line: positive values of fractions, decimals, percents Using negative numbers to represent reality Adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing negative numbers Comparing values of different kinds of positive and negative real numbers using a number line Using combinations of decimals, fractions, negative numbers, and the basic operations Calculating absolute value as a function Measurement of length, length as distance, absolute value as distance from zero Perimeter of basic shapes General awareness of different units, including the "English" and "Metric" systems Converting between different units of length Areas of basic shapes, converting between different units of area Volumes of basic solids, converting between different units of volume Basic angles and how to measure them Variables and constants: why we use letters in math class instead of numbers Expressions and equations: what's the difference and when we use each Translating English words and phrases into math language (and back into English) Using ratios and percents in expressions and equations Understanding and using square roots and other roots Understanding and using scientific notation Gathering and organizing data Understanding median, mode, mean (average), and standard deviation Using charts and graphs to describe the world Rectangular coordinates, using two-dimensional graphs (x and y axis) Compass bearings, polar coordinates, and different coordinate systems