The overriding mathematics goal is for District #56 graduates to be eligible for enrollment in Algebra I or a higher mathematics course upon entry to high school.  The instructional staff at Gurnee School District #56 is working hard to increase the number of students able to complete Pre-Algebra or Algebra I by the end of eighth grade.  Algebra has long been know as the "Gate Keeper" course towards a college education.  We are doing our best to keep college as an option for all D56 students.  Towards that end, recent reviews of the K-8 mathematics curriculum and instructional materials have been completed assuring that course objectives are aligned with state as well as National Council of the Teachers of Mathematics standards (NCTM.)

Middle school math teachers study recommended
strategies for increasing student engagement.

The primary area of focus for adult learning in mathematics has been on increasing the use of math manipulatives with middle school students.  Elementary teachers have long tapped into the value of making math a concrete activity through the use of cubes, rods, geoboards, etc.  The middle school teachers in Gurnee School District #56 have recently received training and are encouraged to use  manipulatives to increase understanding in Algebra. Tools such as Algeblocks, Algebra Works or Think It By Hand tactile products move the abstract nature of some mathematics' concepts closer to the concrete areas of thinking that are most accessible to young students, thus increasing the likelihood of success in mathematics!

Mrs. Carnduff practices with Algeblocks!