Everyday Mathematics

[Ana]

After years of learning math the way I learned math, my children (Grades 4 & 5) are learning the lattice method of multiplication and a very odd way of doing division.  Is this type of math taught in every primary school in Berwyn?  When did it begin and why?

[Shelley]

Hi, Ana.  District 100 uses the "Everyday Math" series developed by the University of Chicago.  From what I know, it is very different and many parents have found it difficult in terms of being able to support/help their children.  It has been very effective in reaching students, however, as evidenced by the rising math scores in the districts that use this method.  Here is a website I found with a parent support piece.  I didn't look too closely, but maybe you'll find it helpful:

http://www.wrightgroup.com/parent_connection/index.html

I just googled "Everyday Math" and there is lots of info about it.  You might also check you child's math text for other online resources.  Good luck!

[good4berwyn]

Everyday Math is great.  It uses a lot of maniupulatives, games, and reali life applications to convey math skills to students.  I have had a lot of experience with it but have since moved on with another Math program.  It stumps the parents but it is better for our kids and teaches them different strategies to arrive at the same expectation.  It really is a great program used in such communities as Palatine, Huntley, parts of Oak Park, and Berwyn for the last 8 years or so.