tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post944417116789484782..comments2008-11-18T08:46:52.680-05:00Aberdeenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593197510549429078noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-41802696218732746782008-11-18T08:46:00.000-05:002008-11-18T08:46:00.000-05:00On the issue of What Works Clearinghouse, I note that there was a big dialogue about EM on Eduwonk about the same time as these comments were filed. Someone wrote about the What Works Clearinghouse "research" on EM:<BR/><BR/><I>Let’s have a look. The Deparment’s “What Works Clearinghouse” which evaluates research on the various math programs, reviewed 61 Everyday Math studies. The findings: Of those 61 studies, none met evidence standards, 4 met evidence standards with reservations and 57 did not meet evidence screens. The WWC found Everyday Mathematics to have potentially positive effects on math achievement based on one study alone: the 2001 Riordan &amp; Noyce study. Just so everyone is on the same page, Pendred Noyce has a vested interest in Everyday Math in that she has formed associations with several reform math initiatives, at least one dedicated to implementation of Everyday Math: COMAP, for which she serves on the Board of Directors.</I>Barry Garelickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01281266848110087415noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-89168196603114444712008-09-23T21:49:00.000-04:002008-09-23T21:49:00.000-04:00Cursive writing is still part of the curriculum.Aberdeenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593197510549429078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-48176575539362836222008-09-19T16:34:00.000-04:002008-09-19T16:34:00.000-04:00Ms. Cullen,<BR/><BR/>If you're that fervent a believer in EM, I'm willing to give it a chance. But I don't think I could ever agree to using a calculator for elementary math. <BR/><BR/>In the end, I want their math skills to be at least as strong as mine. Ideally, I'd prefer allowing parents to choose which curriculum they want for their kids.Aberdeenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593197510549429078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-63077959615317202032008-09-19T15:52:00.000-04:002008-09-19T15:52:00.000-04:00The What Works Clearinghouse has very strict standards (some would argue too strict) for studies that pass muster. There's lots of good research behind the development of EM. <BR/><BR/>I'm not familiar with Singapore Math, but I don't think it's as different from EM as you think. A good curriculum is a good curriculum. I'm sure that your school district went through a process to choose EM for their elementary schools. Maybe the office of curriculum and instruction could tell you?<BR/><BR/>I hope you'll at least give EM a chance!Catherine Cullenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04777308039705976016noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-32458887936997351402008-09-19T15:23:00.000-04:002008-09-19T15:23:00.000-04:00According to the DOE's <A HREF="http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/reports/elementary_math/eday_math/" REL="nofollow">What Works Clearinghouse</A>, Everyday Math has "potentially positive effects". <BR/><BR/>Only <A HREF="http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/reports/elementary_math/eday_math/appendix.asp" REL="nofollow">four studies met the WWC evidence standards "with reservations"</A>. Of the four, the only study that was statistically significant had an Improvement Index of NA. The only test I recognize is the IOWA Test and the students displayed a negative improvement index on that one.Aberdeenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593197510549429078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-70006638802325885832008-09-19T11:07:00.000-04:002008-09-19T11:07:00.000-04:00I am happy that the district has adopted the Everyday Math Program. Having relatives in other areas whose schools and children use Everyday Math, they are very happy with the program, (although they too were skeptical at the start). It simply allows students to learn math many different ways, all of which arrive at the same and correct answer. It also allows children to better understand mentally the process. They are better able to manipulate numbers in their minds, which encourages a higher level of thinking.<BR/><BR/>Not only are the students in these schools taking Algebra and Geometry in Middle School, they are also taking High Honor courses in these subjects. (As well as much higher science courses.)<BR/><BR/>Lastly, I'd like to note, the district I'm refereing is in a similiar DFG as ours. I am very hopeful.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-31385649066892130142008-09-18T17:46:00.000-04:002008-09-18T17:46:00.000-04:00Ms. Cullen, <BR/><BR/>Once again, thanks for sharing your expertise and time but, please, don't go away; I have very few opportunities to discuss curriculums with classroom teachers. <BR/><BR/>I'd be very interested in your opinion on two related topics. First, what is your opinion of Singapore Math? Second, how do we determine which is the better curriculum? Or are different curriculums better suited to different students?<BR/><BR/>I was unaware the DOE's WWC had posted research on Everyday Math but I'll be sure to check it out.<BR/><BR/>Thanks again.Aberdeenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593197510549429078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-74803274109350080022008-09-18T11:07:00.000-04:002008-09-18T11:07:00.000-04:00I also have to point out (and then I promise to go away)that you couldn't be more wrong about these two points:<BR/><BR/>"Secondly, like the bricklayer working with small bricks, Everyday Math prepares students for the types of basic questions they’ll face on the state exams even though it doesn’t provide a foundation for technically advanced coursework. Lastly, the school district will have an easier time training elementary teachers for Everyday Math since the material remains the same even if the teaching methods have changed."<BR/><BR/>First, Everyday Math most definitely prepares children for higher level math. In fact, it does a much better job preparing them for higher math than short sighted, drill based arithmetic that is designed to answer basic test questions. <BR/><BR/>Second, Everyday Math requires significant professional development and training, because it's usually different from the way teachers learned math themselves. The material, in fact, HAS changed. Everyday Math demands a lot from teachers, and its successful implementation requires MORE buy-in and effort than a traditional program, not less.Catherine Cullenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04777308039705976016noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-60011495851211175302008-09-18T10:55:00.000-04:002008-09-18T10:55:00.000-04:00Thanks Aberdeener, and you're not alone in your distrust of Everyday Math. It meets resistance everywhere it goes. <BR/><BR/>But I'd encourage you to think of algorithms in another way. Our traditional algorithms are, essentially, calculators. They are designed to do simple arithmetic calculations as quickly as possible. They're not designed to promote good mathematical thinking. In fact, they often force us to do things that don't make mathematical sense (like treating a 20 like a 2, in our original example). But as technology advances and the economy changes, our ability to do basic calculations quickly and accurately by hand is less important. Everyday Math's alternative algorithms may sacrifice some speed, but they support the thinking and number sense that kids need to develop to be prepared for higher math.<BR/><BR/><BR/>As far as the spiral, I'd encourage you to take a closer look at it. In EM, concrete skills ARE mastered before moving on. The spiral simply acknowledges that math skills relate to each other (multiplication relates to division, to take a simple example)and makes it easier for teachers and students to make those connections and lay the foundation for future understanding. <BR/><BR/>Everyday Math is a paradigm shift, not just a program, and if you're not willing to buy into it, it probably won't work for you. But as for its efficacy, I'd point out that it's the only math curriculum to meet the exacting standards of the Department of Education's "What Works Clearing House." There's a lot of research and cognitive science backing up this program. It's less fun to look at than a YouTube video, but perhaps it's a little more credible.Catherine Cullenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04777308039705976016noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-46743651029409963982008-09-17T23:08:00.000-04:002008-09-17T23:08:00.000-04:00I was informed at Back to school night that it is no longer a requirement in this district for children to learn cursive writing, so it will not be taught anymore. I understand the Math lesson has been extended, but I am unsure whether learning script has been sacrificed for this, and whether there is more to come? I am extremely disappointed.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-13074356764293000362008-09-17T21:56:00.000-04:002008-09-17T21:56:00.000-04:00Ms. Cullen,<BR/><BR/>Though I disagree, I'd like to thank you for articulating your position and sharing your expertise as an elementary teacher. <BR/><BR/>You are correct in that the mathematical computations are ultimately the same regardless of which process is used. However, I stand by my assertion that the Partial Products Method and the Lattice Method do not lend themselves towards multi-digit calculations. Furthermore, Everyday Math concedes as much by encouraging the use of a calculator. <BR/><BR/>The use of a calculator for elementary math is like offering driving instructions during gym class and then extolling the virtues of being able to achieve long distances. As you note, students aren't only learning math, they're developing analytical skills as well. <BR/><BR/>Lastly, the spiral method is inferior to teaching students to master each subject area before moving on to the next. <BR/><BR/>Thanks again for your input. I'm always thrilled to see teachers joining the conversation.<BR/><BR/>Regarding the salaries, I don't yet have the 2008 salaries. The 2007 salaries are posted at <A HREF="http://php.app.com/edstaff/results2.php?county=MONMOUTH&district=MATAWAN-ABERDEEN+REGIONAL&school=%25&lname=&fname=&job1=%25&tfm_order=DESC&tfm_orderby=SALARY" REL="nofollow">www.DataUniverse.com</A>. However, to give the salaries meaning, we need to compare them to districts in our DFG, match their scores against ours, and then see if we're getting our money's worth.Aberdeenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593197510549429078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-1107807757809240162008-09-17T20:49:00.000-04:002008-09-17T20:49:00.000-04:00Before we kill why a person was let go..... make sure we have an accurate account of why. I know that we are sour about our BOE and such, but from what I heard, there was reason.<BR/><BR/>I will not say what, that is not my business, and nothing horrifying in the least. But someone above said he was not a paper pusher or whatever - ummmmm, school is school and that is what teachers get paid for. But, it would not be right for us to guestimate why he was let go, and the BOE will not say aloud, and rightfully so without permission, I just think the district acted in the right manner on this one.<BR/><BR/>Here we go........... I am not BARZA or affiliated.......<BR/><BR/><BR/>Aberdeener, any word on those salaries the posters above asked for?Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-14280512264811201532008-09-17T16:07:00.000-04:002008-09-17T16:07:00.000-04:00I have to point out that you didn't do a totally accurate job of describing how "standard math" solves a problem. For 22x33, a standard math student actually does these steps:<BR/><BR/>2x3, put a 6 in the ones column.<BR/>2x3, put a 6 in the tens column (without articulating why).<BR/>place a zero in the ones column.<BR/>3x2, put a 6 in the tens column.<BR/>3x2, put a 6 in the hundreds column.<BR/><BR/>Partial Products involves the same number of steps, but it forces students to be aware of which 2 represents 2 and which 20, and it avoids the "put a zero" problem. It also lays an important foundation for using the associative and distributive properties later in algebra. <BR/><BR/>I'd also point out that Everyday Math teaches traditional algorithms, too. After they've mastered each, they can generally choose to use the traditional algorithm, partial products or lattice to solve multiplication problems. <BR/><BR/>I think those sorts of poor examples smear the name of Everyday Math without cause.Catherine Cullenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04777308039705976016noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-59353244996460540472008-09-17T09:58:00.000-04:002008-09-17T09:58:00.000-04:00Ken I agree, it doesn't help when people are not there. There are going to be times when we can't make it for whatever the reason, but we do need to see better turnout's in general. Keep asking questions, Gallo is still voting "no" on everything, see wouldn't even read the minutes last night and had Raymond read it because she wanted to discuss the item before it was read.<BR/><BR/>Brian in AberdeenAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-64817651455480334022008-09-17T08:55:00.000-04:002008-09-17T08:55:00.000-04:00I am sorry that I was not able to be at the council meeting last night. I could have been the fifth citizen! <BR/><BR/>"Back to School" night was scheduled for the same time. I wanted to be able to meet my child's teacher.<BR/><BR/>I will be at the next meeting. I am willing to ask questions, but they are not going to care unless we can get 20+ people to attend every meeting.J Section Kennoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-62484238934716149232008-09-17T08:23:00.000-04:002008-09-17T08:23:00.000-04:00What I take that back Vito asked about the Sea Wall and the Cliffwood Beach area.<BR/><BR/>BrianAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-39714254679471276402008-09-17T08:22:00.000-04:002008-09-17T08:22:00.000-04:00No, nothing asked. <BR/><BR/>BrianAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-81066501164230983482008-09-17T07:41:00.000-04:002008-09-17T07:41:00.000-04:00Last nights council meeting sounded like<BR/><BR/>Blah** Blah **Blah **Blah <BR/><BR/>They love that. It just means they can get away with more week after week after week.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-76675468823027974032008-09-17T07:16:00.000-04:002008-09-17T07:16:00.000-04:00Thanks Brian. <BR/><BR/>Did anyone ask any of the questions suggested on this site or ask the new manager anything? Brian did you ask any questions yourself?MRHSalumninoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-78727808236191160672008-09-17T07:09:00.000-04:002008-09-17T07:09:00.000-04:00At the town council meeting a total of 4 residents showed up, two of which are the older guys who are there every week. <BR/>Gallo voted no on anything and everything. Nothing happened at all, there was talk about the rec center that some people want. Talk about "rehabing" the First Aid center in Cliffwood Beach and that maybe that could be used for some rec type program. No left turn on Lloyd Rd. and an executive session. <BR/><BR/>Brian in AberdeenAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-69436272456245500512008-09-17T00:06:00.000-04:002008-09-17T00:06:00.000-04:00There is absolutely no evidence whatsoever that the music teacher ever engaged in any misconduct whatsoever. Whoever suggests otherwise should be ashamed of himself. <BR/><BR/>I also wonder who's spreading the rumor and why.Aberdeenerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14593197510549429078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-68803878692544234622008-09-16T21:11:00.000-04:002008-09-16T21:11:00.000-04:00Please someone update me on what is going on at the council meeting tonight. I am out of town but I will check in. <BR/><BR/>Thank youKennyCBnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-52730431621400969412008-09-16T20:54:00.000-04:002008-09-16T20:54:00.000-04:00I agree with MRHSALUMNI for one simple *despite anonymous and his or her BS* the same music teacher was immediately hired by another district. <BR/><BR/>So as far as the suggestions from the so so brave anonymous I would ask one question. <BR/><BR/>How was he hired almsot immediately if as you suggest children were in jeopardy? Answer that pinhead. <BR/><BR/>The rest of us may have to wait a while for his or her answer, as I am sure the answer will only be forthcoming as soon as his or her BARZA handler, calls and tells him or her what to they are to say next. <BR/><BR/>Closed minded idiots. BARZA sucks!KimsMomsHusbandnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-60330521369888264502008-09-16T20:43:00.000-04:002008-09-16T20:43:00.000-04:00I really hope someone gets on tonight and gives us an update on the Aberdeen Council meeting. <BR/><BR/>At least an update would be nice on Janice Gallo. I wonder if Tom Perry will be there to defend her right to ask a question or two against the wishes of...I almost said HIS NAME. We have finally been on a subject for almost a week and that various responses and input on this subject has not once included HIS NAME. Nor has anyone used used HIS NAME. <BR/><BR/>We can do it. Do not use HIS NAME, PLEASE. I beg you. Just one topic of conversation without HIS NAME. PLEASE. <BR/><BR/>I thank you all.Mr. Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7099245919524883845.post-54806837755615867872008-09-16T20:20:00.000-04:002008-09-16T20:20:00.000-04:00Once again a BARZA representative has thrown information around that would have without question required police involvement or more. <BR/><BR/>What you suggest and claim to have occurred (hiding behind) ANONYMOUS comes without one simple thing, any PROOF. <BR/><BR/>As far as your children do you really think as you have suggested that children were somehow in jeopardy. Had that been the case he would have not made it through the entire school year. You idiot.<BR/><BR/>More BARZA bullshit. These people just throw false, unreliable and veiled suggestions, without one spec of proof. <BR/><BR/>Good luck with that and your BS phobias.mrhsalumninoreply@blogger.com