Lower School: Mathematics

In kindergarten, the mathematics curriculum anchors abstract concepts to the “real world” via sight, hearing, speech, and touch. The program stresses thinking skills, problem-solving strategies, mental arithmetic, estimation, measurement, time, and money concepts. Children learn to solve arithmetic equations using manipulatives, rods, number lines, and memory.

The first-grade mathematics curriculum increases children’s familiarity with an expanded group of numbers, and strengthens their understanding of the concepts represented by numbers and arithmetic algorithms. Problem-solving skills are emphasized. Extensive and varied use of manipulatives helps solidify abstract concepts, and word problems relate math to the real world and highlight the importance of math skills.

In second-grade math, earlier skills are developed to a more sophisticated level, and several new number concepts are introduced. The program hones arithmetic skills, with an emphasis on solving real-life, practical problems. Students also learn and practice measurement, using both metric and traditional systems; use math-related tools, such as the thermometer, calendar, and clock; and are introduced to simple geometric concepts.