Math
Overview
District 25 uses Math in Focus 2020 for Kindergarten through 5th-grade students. This curriculum utilizes a concrete, pictorial, and abstract approach that focuses on problem-solving and conceptual understanding of math concepts. In middle school, 6th through 8th-grade core math classes use the Savvas enVision+ Mathematics curriculum. enVision+ builds on the foundations set in elementary math, utilizing similar visualization techniques and continues a focus on problem-solving and conceptual understanding, with an emphasis on real-world application. Starting in 4th grade, District 25 offers advanced math courses for students who demonstrate a need for grade-level accelerated content. Advanced math classes use the Big Ideas curriculum, which focuses on problem-solving, real-life application, and conceptual understanding through a mix of exploration and practice.
Standards
Illinois has adopted the Illinois Learning Standards, which are based on the Common Core State Standards. District 25 uses curricular resources aligned to the Illinois Learning Standards, which also inform instruction. By emphasizing depth over breadth, the Illinois Learning Standards ensure that students have a comprehensive understanding of key concepts. Additional information can be found on the Illinois State Board of Education website.
Instruction
The Math in Focus program strives to develop conceptual understanding with the goal of content mastery. Concepts are taught by moving through a sequence from concrete to pictorial to abstract. Concrete learning happens through hands-on activities with math manipulatives, such as counters, coins, number lines, or base ten blocks. Pictorial learning uses pictures, drawings, or other forms that illustrate the concept with something more than abstract numbers. Finally, abstract learning requires students to use numerals, strategies, and problem-solving methods to solve problems. Math in Focus is a research-based program that focuses on classroom learning, discussion, and practice. It strives to balance conceptual understanding, visual learning, and problem-solving.
The enVision+ Mathematics curriculum is an evidence-based instructional program rooted in mathematical content and practice standards. It emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and practical, real-world application to strategically build deep understanding. The program includes comprehensive lessons and assessment tools to measure student progress, and provides family engagement resources that include program-level, topic-level, and lesson-level support, enabling opportunities to promote strong home-school connections.
The Big Ideas Math program utilizes a research-based, balanced instructional approach that includes both discovery learning and scaffolded lessons. Big Ideas Math is dedicated to a balanced approach to instruction. The activities and explorations involve student-directed discovery learning, allowing students to develop a conceptual understanding. The discovery learning is followed by scaffolded instruction, giving students the opportunity to utilize clear, precise mathematics language and structure.
The D25 Math progression is as follows:
Elementary School
Additional Information
Math Interventionists
Each building in District 25 has a math interventionist. Students will be identified based off of district assessment criteria. Students who receive math intervention are exposed to a variety of programs based on their specific needs.
- K-5 Math Intervention Curriculum: Primary Mathematics
- 6-8 Math Intervention Curriculum: Savvas Successmaker
Advanced Math Process
We identify students for Advanced Math Placement in the spring for the following year starting in 3rd grade. For additional information on the advanced math placement process, please select the Advanced Math Placement page.