Mathematics
SHS Mathematics
Simsbury Public Schools is committed to developing engaged, creative, critical thinkers and problem-solvers prepared for college and career success. Our program provides a rigorous, guaranteed, standards-based curriculum where conceptual understanding and basic skills form the foundation for complex problem-solving. We foster passionate, self-directed learners who use growth mindset and innovation to navigate a rapidly changing world with confidence and mathematical proficiency.
To achieve these goals, the mathematics program provides students with opportunities to:
- Demonstrate Self-Directed Learning – Build independence through deep engagement with mathematical ideas, utilizing quality feedback to reflect on and explain their own thinking and learning.
- Drive Innovation – Use evolving resources and technology to solve complex, real-world problems in numerous ways, promoting flexibility and creative thinking.
- Practice Global & Digital Citizenship – Collaborate with others to solve problems and use digital tools responsibly, connecting mathematical concepts to personal experiences and broader societal contexts.
- Engage in Differentiated & Connected Instruction – Access instruction tailored to diverse needs that highlights mathematical connections between multiple representations—such as stories, tables, graphs, and equations
By the end of Grade 12, all students will be able to:
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
- Make sense of complex problems and persevere in solving them.
- Use number sense, mathematical assumptions, and definitions to construct arguments and evaluate the reasoning of others.
- Identify patterns, trends, and interrelationships to investigate mathematical structures.
Communication & Modeling
- Discuss and demonstrate mathematical understanding in multiple ways.
- Select and use a variety of models, tools, and technology to solve problems and communicate ideas effectively.
- Construct mathematical models using equivalent numeric, verbal, and visual representations.
Application & Global Readiness
- Transfer mathematical skills across multiple content areas with proficiency and precision.
- Use mathematical concepts to make and justify decisions, formulate questions from data, and solve real-world problems.
- Apply mathematical reasoning to act as informed, innovative, and responsible global citizens.
Department Goals
- Enhance classroom instruction and curriculum to provide challenging instruction to students at all levels
- Prioritize student voice and agency in planning instruction
- Learn from a professional network of math teachers about high quality instruction
What Students can Expect
- Ownership of your own learning, including self-reflection and study skills
- Opportunities to work with groups to contribute to a collective learning environment
- Support and additional resources when you need them
What Families can Expect
- Regular communication and updates about your child’s progress
- Challenging curriculum that is fit to your child’s needs
