Elementary Math at NNPS
The NNPS Elementary Math Department works to support the development of mathematical understanding and computational fluency among all students in grades K-5.
Questions? Please call the NNPS Elementary Math Office at (757) 283-7850 x.10745.
Our Vision
In our fast paced, information driven, polarized world, we are committed to developing data-literate citizens who can solve complex and fascinating problems. We develop our students’ capacity to question, analyze, justify and reflect throughout the problem-solving process. We also discover the beauty and power of mathematical language existing in our natural world, inventions, innovations and everyday life.
How we do math is as important as the math itself. The ability to persevere, solve problems, think critically, learn through challenges, discuss, and experience the joy of math will empower students as college, career and global citizen-mathematicians.
Our Goals
Students will:
- Use the language of math to articulate their thought processes; utilize mathematical language, including using specific vocabulary and symbols, to effectively communicate their mathematical ideas. (Communication)
- Explain their reasoning, listening to and considering others' perspectives, and engaging in mathematical discourse. (Communication, Citizenship)
- Apply a variety of problem-solving strategies which can include novel and unconventional strategies and techniques to solve mathematical problems. (Problem Solving, Creativity)
- Select appropriate strategies, making decisions about which operations or methods to use, and evaluating the effectiveness of their chosen strategies. (Problem Solving)
- Develop the ability to reflect on their mathematical thinking and evaluate the effectiveness of their problem-solving approaches. (Critical Thinking)
- Make critical decisions and sense of the world around them based on using sound reasoning grounded in mathematical principles (Critical thinking)
- Engage in productive struggle and work to embrace mistakes as a learning opportunity. (Critical Thinking)
- Recognize patterns, identify similarities and differences, and understand how different mathematical ideas relate to one another. (Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving)
Our Instructional Approach
We believe all students can learn math at high levels. We empower our students to become increasingly fluent, capable of breaking down complex problems, and developing solution-paths based on underlying concepts. We strive to create a positive and inclusive learning environment where students develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts and skills and are able to apply them to real-world situations.
- Use of concrete-representational-abstract progression
- Facilitating mathematical discourse (reasoning, proving, justifying)
- Multiple entry points to solve problems requiring high cognitive demand
- Purposeful questioning
- Use of tasks that engage curiosity and playfulness
- Foster perseverance and challenge
- Opportunities to develop or discover rules and algorithms
- Use of authentic technology to advance mathematical understanding
Meet the Elementary Math Team
Lisa Coffman
Elementary Math Supervisor
(757)283-7850 x.10745
Natalya Brana
Math Specialist
(757)283-7850
Marilee Ward
Math Specialist
(757)283-7850
Lauren Hancock
Math Specialist
(757)283-7850
Wendy Lash
Math Coach
(757)283-7850