Curriculum Corner: Bridges in Mathematics

This week’s Curriculum Corner focuses on Bridges' Investigations and Work Places math components.
Bridges is a comprehensive math program used in kindergarten through fifth grade. Through a variety of methods, Bridges engages boys in mathematical thinking—an aspect that is one of the program’s greatest strengths. Bridges is comprised of a set of math components, each with its own goal and grade-level appropriateness. Boys in kindergarten through second grade participate in Investigations, Work Places, and Number Corner. Third through fifth graders focus on Problems and Investigations, Work Places, Problem Strings, Math Forum, Number Corner, and Daily Practice.

This week’s Curriculum Corner will focus on Investigations and Work Places.

Investigations is a teacher-directed component in which boys learn about new mathematical concepts and build on their understanding of concepts already presented. Math problems are solved by the whole class, in small groups, or with partners. Multiple approaches are valued, creativity is explored, and student voice and discussions are encouraged. The concepts, both freshly learned and those previously, learned are rolled up and then put into practice within the Work Places component.

Work Places is an essential piece to the kindergarten through fifth grade mathematics program at Cathedral. After investigating problems together as a class or engaging in whole class lessons, the boys choose from a series of Work Places lessons. These lessons engage the boys in problem solving and skill building while applying their new understandings in differentiated ways. Each Work Places activity focuses on different mathematical concepts. For example, kindergarteners are currently covering the following Work Places concepts: patterns, one-to-one correspondence, greater than/less than, cardinality, beginning probability, subtizing, number combinations for the sums of five and 10, and number recognition and writing. Many of the Work Places activities are game-based, allowing boys to not only strengthen key math skills, but also effectively partner with other students while having fun.

Last fall, we shared a broader overview of the Bridges program in the Curriculum Corner. Bridges was selected for its comprehensive approach to developing a deep understanding of mathematics. Through the program’s varied methods, focus on multiple solutions to problem-solving, and rich conversations around the topics, students are inspired and encouraged to become efficient and fluent mathematicians.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about the Bridges program at Cathedral School for Boys, please contact Paul Bertrand, Lower School Head.
Back

Cathedral School for Boys

Located in San Francisco, California, Cathedral School for Boys is an independent elementary school for boys in Kindergarten – Grade 8. Our mission is to provide an excellent education through intellectual inquiry and rigor that is centered in the Episcopal tradition and is respectful of and welcoming to people of all religious traditions and beliefs.