Del Mar Math FAQs
Is there a way students can see the whole screen when writing about their thinking in math?
Yes, external keyboards will be helpful for that and for anything that requires them to write on their iPads. We are in the process of purchasing iPad keyboards so that each classroom will be equipped with a class set. Students will have the option to use them when asked to give written responses to math problems.
Is all of the work done on the iPads, or do the students also use pencil and paper?
Students use both. Each student has been given a paper notebook for math, and they are welcome to use it throughout class to solve problems or take notes. When the math activity is not dependent on the iPad (for example when doing an interactive simulation), students can choose to do their work on paper.
How can students make corrections on exams if they don’t have paper copies? How can parents help their child with corrections?
In class, once the tests are “released” to the students, they may go through each question, one by one, and compare their answer to the correct one. They are equipped with a corrections document (on paper) to copy the question that was missed. Then, on the document, they do the problem correctly and write about the mistake that was made. They are also encouraged to take a screenshot of missed problems and email it to themselves or put on Google Drive to help them study and prepare for a retake should they choose to try for better understanding and a resulting higher score.
How is my child supposed to be using the homework answer keys?
We encourage students to use the answer key to validate their answers. After solving the first problem, they should then check the answer key to confirm that their result is correct. If so, they can continue solving more problems in this manner until they have completed the assignment. The benefit to having an answer key is that students get instant feedback about their work; if they get a problem right, they can continue on. If they make a mistake, they can troubleshoot and apply error analysis to determine their mistake. Once corrected, the student will have learned the proper way of solving it.
How and when will the current math program (the Pearson “pilot”) be evaluated?
The program will be reviewed and assessed by the Del Mar Math Department, the students, parents, and administration using both rubrics and surveys. At year’s end, data will be compiled and a recommendation will be made to the RUSD Board.
How are the math classes with this program different from how I learned math?
With Pearson System of Courses, classrooms are student centered. Students engage in inquiry-based learning, have many opportunities to collaboratively work with others, and regularly share their thinking.
For more on Pearson System of Courses, please see our About PSoC page or visit their PSoC website.
Yes, external keyboards will be helpful for that and for anything that requires them to write on their iPads. We are in the process of purchasing iPad keyboards so that each classroom will be equipped with a class set. Students will have the option to use them when asked to give written responses to math problems.
Is all of the work done on the iPads, or do the students also use pencil and paper?
Students use both. Each student has been given a paper notebook for math, and they are welcome to use it throughout class to solve problems or take notes. When the math activity is not dependent on the iPad (for example when doing an interactive simulation), students can choose to do their work on paper.
How can students make corrections on exams if they don’t have paper copies? How can parents help their child with corrections?
In class, once the tests are “released” to the students, they may go through each question, one by one, and compare their answer to the correct one. They are equipped with a corrections document (on paper) to copy the question that was missed. Then, on the document, they do the problem correctly and write about the mistake that was made. They are also encouraged to take a screenshot of missed problems and email it to themselves or put on Google Drive to help them study and prepare for a retake should they choose to try for better understanding and a resulting higher score.
How is my child supposed to be using the homework answer keys?
We encourage students to use the answer key to validate their answers. After solving the first problem, they should then check the answer key to confirm that their result is correct. If so, they can continue solving more problems in this manner until they have completed the assignment. The benefit to having an answer key is that students get instant feedback about their work; if they get a problem right, they can continue on. If they make a mistake, they can troubleshoot and apply error analysis to determine their mistake. Once corrected, the student will have learned the proper way of solving it.
How and when will the current math program (the Pearson “pilot”) be evaluated?
The program will be reviewed and assessed by the Del Mar Math Department, the students, parents, and administration using both rubrics and surveys. At year’s end, data will be compiled and a recommendation will be made to the RUSD Board.
How are the math classes with this program different from how I learned math?
With Pearson System of Courses, classrooms are student centered. Students engage in inquiry-based learning, have many opportunities to collaboratively work with others, and regularly share their thinking.
For more on Pearson System of Courses, please see our About PSoC page or visit their PSoC website.