Mathematics

Math teacher lecturing about graphing circles

Our vision of student learning for mathematics in Northshore School District for all students to build a strong conceptual foundation for mathematical thinking, providing learning opportunities in a positive, safe, and inclusive environment in which all students can confidently explore, question, create, solidify, communicate, and apply mathematical ideas. We will pursue growth for every student, endeavoring to eliminate the outcome and opportunity gaps within our culturally and cognitively diverse population. Educators will empower students to make informed and thoughtful decisions which will guide them towards becoming math-minded citizens and productive members of their community.

We envision mathematics classrooms where all students and teachers

engage deeply in collaborative conversations and in actively learning mathematics;
challenge, discuss, and stretch their thinking to form new connections within mathematics, across content areas and to the real world;
think critically to solve problems, building a strong conceptual foundation for mathematical thinking and communication in multiple ways;
have access to rigorous, equitable, diverse, and developmentally responsive curriculum that utilizes investigation and problem solving;
use the tools of mathematics including technology flexibly and efficiently;
show perseverance, resilience, and independence;
are empowered to take risks and cultivate a growth mindset;
use standards and student needs drive instructional decisions; and
are progressing toward college and career math readiness.

Standards

Washington formally adopted the Mathematics K–12 Learning Standards, which are based on the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. These standards include content standards for each grade level as well as the Standards for Mathematical Practice which describe essential mathematical habits of mind and action that should pervade mathematics curriculum and pedagogy.

Family-Friendly Scope and Sequences for K-5 Math

Parent Guides for 6-12 Math

Core Instructional Materials

Grades K-5:
- Math Expressions - adopted 2009 and updated in 2013. The program is aligned to the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics.
- K-5 Math Expressions eStudent Editions (students must login using their district Google account to access)
Grades 6-8:
- Core Focus on Mathematics - adopted 2018
Grades 8-11:
- Prentice-Hall Algebra/Geometry/Algebra 2 - adopted 2009 for Algebra 1, Geometry and Algebra 2 courses

Pathways

Students and families should carefully consider potential post-high school plans as students select math courses. Choosing courses thoughtfully as early as middle school will ensure that students receive the level of math instruction required for their college major or other post-secondary track. Please speak with your child's math teacher or counselor for more guidance.

Middle School Pathway

Pathway	5th Grade	6th Grade	7th Grade	8th Grade
A	Math 5	Math 6*	Math 7	Math 8
B	Math 5	Math 6*	Self-select 7th Grade Challenge Math	Algebra 1
C	Grade 5 EAP* (Math 7)	Grade 6 AAP (Math 8)	Algebra 1	Geometry
C	Highly Capable In-Class Services	7th Grade Challenge Math	Algebra 1	Geometry

*Students may opt to take Algebra Readiness Assessment at the end of the year. If student qualifies, they may begin Algebra 1 in the fall.

Download Middle School Pathways PDF

High School Pathway

Pathway	9th Grade	10th Grade	11th Grade	12th Grade
A	Algebra 1	Geometry	Algebra 2	Precalculus or AP Statistics
B	Geometry	Algebra 2 or Alg2-Trig	Precalculus	AP Calculus AB or AP Statistics
C	Alg2-Trig	Precalculus	AP Calculus AB	AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, or IB Higher Level Math

Download High School Pathways PDF

Assessments for Learning

Student progress in mathematics at the elementary and middle school levels is monitored using the i-Ready Math Assessment according to the following schedule:

Kindergarten: Winter and Spring
Grades 1-8: Fall, Winter and Spring

Students in grades 3-8 and grade 10 take the Smarter Balanced assessment in mathematics each spring during the last 12 weeks of the school year.

OSPI Mathematics: Assessment

Graduation Requirements

1.0 Credit: Algebra 1
1.0 Credit: Geometry
1.0 Credit: Student Choice*

*This credit is chosen by the student and is based on their interest and High School & Beyond Plan.

Parent Resources

The Houghton Mifflin Math Expressions eStudent Editions for Grades K-5 allow for online access to the Student Activity Books used in your student's class as well as the Homework and Remembering Pages and Family Letters. To access the eStudent Editions, please click the link below and have your student login using their district Google account.