Dear Parents,
Beginning the 2013-2014 school year Pleasant Valley High School will be transitioning to the Iowa Core Curriculum. Algebra will be the first course to implement the new standards model. This is a continuation of the same model implemented at PV Junior High during spring semester of 2012. The perpetuation of this curriculum model should allow students to be familiar with the format of our classroom instruction.
The state of Iowa has adopted a new education plan, the Common Core Curriculum, in effort to build consistency in education across the entire state. The intent of this plan is to create a more modern learning experience for students in preparation for their futures. This state-led effort to implement consistent standards will provide appropriate academic benchmarks for all students, regardless of where they live, and allow states to more effectively help all students succeed. With this implementation, come changes to instruction and learning in the classroom environment.
In the classroom, we will be taking a more hands on approach to learning mathematical concepts by creating a student-centered learning environment. The curriculum will shift from memorizing and practicing facts and procedures to understanding and applying concepts, practices, and facts. As a department, we will be working collaboratively to create engaging activities and opportunities for student discovery. Our focus will be shifting toward more relevant and rigorous opportunities that are applicable to the real world concepts; including the knowledge and skills students need to be successful in the 21st century. The new approach to learning will allow students to obtain deeper conceptual knowledge of the big ideas as well as develop skills in critical thinking, communication, creativity, and collaboration
The changes to instruction and learning in the classroom will also mean a few changes seen at home. Students will not be coming home with as much homework as previously seen. We will also be moving away from the traditional text book. Currently there is not a text book available that aligns with the Iowa Common Core standards. Students will need to provide a 1½ to 2 inch binder for the class in order to hold and organize the materials that we provide each day. It is important that students are organized with note-taking and keeping the materials given to them in class to use as references.
Completion of the Algebra Core Standards will allow students to transition into Geometry where our department is already planning implementation of the Geometry Core Standards. Please see the attachment for further explanation of the Iowa Core Curriculum for Algebra. As a department, we appreciate your support, understanding, and patience as we continue to make adjustments and improvements to your child’s education. Please feel free to email or call with any questions or concerns.
Thank you for everything you do!
Nikki Boehl [email protected]
Kim Ver Heecke [email protected]
Nick Sacco [email protected]
The state of Iowa has adopted a new education plan, the Common Core Curriculum, in effort to build consistency in education across the entire state. The intent of this plan is to create a more modern learning experience for students in preparation for their futures. This state-led effort to implement consistent standards will provide appropriate academic benchmarks for all students, regardless of where they live, and allow states to more effectively help all students succeed. With this implementation, come changes to instruction and learning in the classroom environment.
In the classroom, we will be taking a more hands on approach to learning mathematical concepts by creating a student-centered learning environment. The curriculum will shift from memorizing and practicing facts and procedures to understanding and applying concepts, practices, and facts. As a department, we will be working collaboratively to create engaging activities and opportunities for student discovery. Our focus will be shifting toward more relevant and rigorous opportunities that are applicable to the real world concepts; including the knowledge and skills students need to be successful in the 21st century. The new approach to learning will allow students to obtain deeper conceptual knowledge of the big ideas as well as develop skills in critical thinking, communication, creativity, and collaboration
The changes to instruction and learning in the classroom will also mean a few changes seen at home. Students will not be coming home with as much homework as previously seen. We will also be moving away from the traditional text book. Currently there is not a text book available that aligns with the Iowa Common Core standards. Students will need to provide a 1½ to 2 inch binder for the class in order to hold and organize the materials that we provide each day. It is important that students are organized with note-taking and keeping the materials given to them in class to use as references.
Completion of the Algebra Core Standards will allow students to transition into Geometry where our department is already planning implementation of the Geometry Core Standards. Please see the attachment for further explanation of the Iowa Core Curriculum for Algebra. As a department, we appreciate your support, understanding, and patience as we continue to make adjustments and improvements to your child’s education. Please feel free to email or call with any questions or concerns.
Thank you for everything you do!
Nikki Boehl [email protected]
Kim Ver Heecke [email protected]
Nick Sacco [email protected]