Math is learned through a process of building skills and understanding. Graduates of St. John School are able to apply and communicate mathematical concepts in solving problems.
- Basic math skills are thoroughly and sequentially taught in kindergarten through eighth grade.
- Students learn that several strategies can be used to solve a problem. Strategies taught appeal to a variety of learning styles.
- Problem solving is carefully taught in each grade beginning with kindergarten, with students learning to apply appropriate methods, operations, and processes to construct solutions.
- Teachers create bridges between the concrete and abstract by means of a hands-on approach to math.
- Manipulatives, pencil and paper, calculators, computers, etc. are employed in solving mathematical problems. Development of algebraic sense begins in kindergarten and continues through grade eight.
- Students are taught to explain orally and in writing the processes by which they solve problems.
- Students throughout the grades develop skills on a continuum that fosters the ability to effectively communicate mathematical understanding, think conceptually, solve problems, and apply skills in real-life situations.
- St. John School offers challenging opportunities in programs such as accelerated Zero Period math class and math competitions. Zero Period allows for reduced class sizes for both seventh and eighth grade. Students benefit from more individual instruction through low teacher-to-student ratios.
