Frequently Asked
QuestionsMath Explorer
Frequently Asked
Questions
Math Explorers is an instructional initiative that provides curricular extensions for students who need challenge beyond their grade-level mathematics curriculum.
The focus of Math Explorers is on the application of grade level math skills and concepts and on open-ended problem solving investigations.
Students take district-developed pretests at the beginning of each instructional unit. Students who demonstrate mastery of grade-level TEKS for the unit skills then have the option to participate in Math Explorer lessons and assignments in place of the regular math lesson for that skill. Some students may qualify for the entire unit as a Math Explorer and others may only qualify for specific skills within the unit.
Students involved in Math Explorer instruction will meet with their math teacher a minimum of twice each week. In most cases, they will communicate with their teacher much more than this. The teacher and Math Explorers will discuss the activities or projects they are currently involved in. Teachers pose higher-level questions to promote deeper thinking and learning and students have the opportunity to ask questions and clarify parts of their assignments.
Math Explorer activities are generated by a district math team from various resources. Math Explorers lessons and activities are included in the CCISD Mathematics curriculum documents for fourth and fifth grades. Teachers may also choose to pull in their own extension and application activities. Activities include logic puzzles, word problems, computer simulations and games, manipulative activities, real-world problem solving, and student-created problems.
Students can qualify as a Math Explorer for all or part of a unit depending on their pretest scores. Each pretest is broken down into specific learning objectives. Students who only master certain TEKS within a unit will only participate in Math Explorer activities when those particular TEKS are being covered within the regular curriculum. Teachers may also choose to provide Math Explorer instruction partway through a unit if they determine that some students have mastered the unit's TEKS earlier than the rest of the class.
Math Explorers is a program of differentiation designed to help teachers meet the needs of highly-capable math students within the normal classroom setting. It allows students who have mastered skills to move beyond the concrete learning of the skills and into the application level of learning. This program is great for both teachers and students because of its flexibility and unit based instruction. It gives the students who are successful in certain strands of mathematics the ability to excel within this strand and it gives teachers an opportunity to challenge their students who have mastered certain grade-level TEKS.
How are grades determined for Math Explorers?
Math Explorers are required to complete the normal weekly classroom quizzes. Teachers may also choose to grade Math Explorer activities if they choose. Math Explorer students will complete normal weekly homework or special Math Explorer homework based upon his or her needs.
How do I know if my child qualifies for Math Explorers?
After a pretest is given for each unit, the teacher will grade the tests. If a student qualifies as a Math Explorer for that particular unit, a letter will be sent home to the parents stating their mastery on the pretest. The letter will explain whether the child qualified for the entire unit or only certain sections within the present unit.
Do the pretests get sent home with the students?
Unit pretests remain at school and are not sent home with the students. Parents may schedule a conference with their child's teacher to discuss and view their child's pretest.