THE 2ND NATURE ACADEMY
MATHEMATICS MANTRA
+ Math is meaningful
+ Mindset matters
+ All students can be successful in math
+ There can be multiple ways to solve a problem
An Introduction
While math can feel “big,” it should always be approachable. Math should be hands-on, collaborative, and explorative. After all, it is everywhere we look in the natural world and its real-world applications are far more innumerable and tangible than we often give the subject credit for. 2nd Nature Academy strives to break down the barriers that have been erected in the minds of too many learners, instead encouraging all students to approach math with open minds, teaching them how to think critically, and challenging them to make connections across disciplines, as well as the world at large. It is our goal to instill in all learners an enthusiasm for math, to develop growth mindsets, and establish positive math class norms. Moreover, we encourage all parents/guardians to consider the critical role they play in their child’s mindset and achievement in math.
Elementary School
Program:
Think Math!
Think Math! builds on children’s innate desire to make sense of the world through the implementation of puzzles, investigations, and games. Beyond skill development, learners are provided the tools to build strong mathematical habits of mind. With a basis in developmental psycholinguistics and child language, cognitive science, child development, and math teaching/learning research, this program was rigorously tested in classrooms and is supported by the National Science Foundation.
Middle School
Program:
Core Curriculum by MidSchool Math
Research has shown that this multidimensional, growth mindset curriculum provides a much more enriching math experience and results in deeper student engagement, excitement, and success. It teaches students to think like mathematicians through providing opportunities for developing confidence and solving rigorous challenges. A healthy dose of humor goes a long way in appealing to middle school audiences. Our middle school math teacher is trained in Stanford Math Professor and program co-designer Jo Boaler’s Mathematical Mindsets approach. Professor Boaler is an advocate for bringing about higher levels of student engagement and achievement in mathematics. To learn more about the program, we invite you to read this Letter to Parents and Guardians from MidSchoolMath.
High School
Disciplines taught:
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Algebra I & II
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Financial Literacy
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Geometry
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Trigonometry
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Pre-Calculus
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Calculus
Through a PBL approach, students will organically embrace learning techniques that respond to their desire to explore the mathematical world around them. This, in turn, enables students to ask questions, engage in multidimensional activities, and explore real-world scenarios with authentic curiosity. Each lesson/unit follows a five phase process:
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Immersive Experience
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Student Discussion
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Teacher-Directed Lesson
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Skill Practice
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Ongoing Project
