Mathematics - Introduction

Mathematics is everywhere!

People use mathematical skills daily:

to identify problems,
to look for information to solve the problems,
to consider a variety of solutions, and
to communicate the best solution to others

Thus, students need to know more than how to simply calculate; they need to know how to interpret, evaluate, see patterns, make comparisons, make inductions and deductions from the data round them. Flexibility, adaptability, and creativity are at the core of mathematical reasoning.

A great deal has been learned about how students learn mathematics and how they develop autonomy in using mathematics. Students construct meaning of mathematical concepts when involved in real-life problems using a variety of mathematical tools. Mathematics enable people to make sense of a universe that otherwise might seem to be hopelessly complicated.

Since today mathematics is used in more fields of endeavor than ever before and has also become more essential in everyday life, it is critical that our students enjoy, appreciate and understand mathematics.

Adapted From:

Benchmarks for Science Literacy: Project 2061, 1993.
Maine Common Core of Learning, Maine Department of Education, 1990.
National Council of Teachers Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Standards, 1994.
State of Maine Learning Results, Maine Department of Education, 1996.

Introduction

"Jobs.....require workers.....who are prepared to absorb new ideas, to adapt to change, to cope with ambiguity, to perceive patterns, and to solve unconventional problems. It is these needs....that make mathematics a prerequisite to so many jobs." - National Research Council -

"Jobs.....require workers.....who are prepared to absorb new ideas, to adapt to change, to cope with ambiguity, to perceive patterns, and to solve unconventional problems. It is these needs....that make mathematics a prerequisite to so many jobs."
- National Research Council -