Mathematics is the symbolic language of thinking and prepares students for all other curriculum content. It represents the most international of all curriculum areas and influences not only students’ ability to problem solve in a mathematical context but also in every area of personal and civil life. The Franklin Lakes District recognizes the importance of mathematics and believes that students of all ages can and should develop positive mathematical identities and attitudes, as they become powerful math learners. The instructional goal of the mathematics program is to promote an understanding of mathematical concepts so that students can apply their skills and knowledge to novel problems and situations. In so doing, the program challenges students to attack all problems in a reasoned and logical manner. Computational skills and the ability to choose and apply abstract algorithms to problem solving are important components of the program. In order for students to successfully meet the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Mathematics, they must develop a strong number sense in order to conceptually understand why algorithms work and to recognize and appreciate the elegance with which equations can represent mathematical thinking.
K-5 Mathematics
6-8 Mathematics
Students enter the Middle School with various levels of mathematical readiness and are tested upon entry to determine what level of mathematics will best challenge them and meet their needs. The Franklin Lakes District recognizes that young adolescent students learn mathematics at varying paces and with differentiated levels of mathematical motivation and curiosity. A comprehensive rubric is utilized to determine the appropriate level for each student. Students may enter the program in standard or advanced mathematics courses for their grade level. Although the content of these levels is similar, the pacing and depth of study varies so that those students in the advanced classes are more deeply challenged. Students in the standard Grade 8 program receive a classic pre-algebra curriculum to prepare them for success in high school algebra in Grade 9. Students in the advanced Grade 8 program may be eligible for our high school level Algebra or Geometry courses depending on their progress through the course of study.
Please visit the documents below for an overview of our 6-8 Courses:
6-8 Standard & Advanced Math Unit Calendars
Accelerated Course: Algebra Curriculum: Scope & Sequence
2018-19 Mathematics Programming Evaluation
In response to the District’s 2018-19 Mathematics Programming Evaluation, we are now positioned to take the first steps forward to improve our system for Math learning and understanding such that it supports ALL learners to engage with mathematics, deeply understand, and apply it. Toward this end, the next few years of professional work in K-8 mathematics will focus on the following long-term objectives:
Our plan for improvement in math focuses on system-wide efforts across a number of critical areas. As depicted in the graphic above, these include: