Rationale for Program Change

The Middle Level Mathematics Curriculum is centred on the philosophy of real-world problem solving, the active involvement of students, and the use of a variety of appropriate resources. Previously, the focus was on computation, a single textbook approach, and less active involvement of students. This limited the amount of time teachers devoted to the applications of mathematics and to developing the skills and understanding necessary for students' future success. Therefore, the curriculum is designed to promote the following key changes:

• the incorporation of problem solving in every strand of mathematics;
• the use of multiple resources;
• the application of mathematics to everyday life;
• the active involvement of students in their learning, including the extensive use of manipulatives;
• the application of estimation and mental mathematics strategies;
• the use of calculators, and computers as tools for learning and doing mathematics;
• the use of simulations, projects, and experiments as the basis of understanding the role of mathematics in the real world;
• an integrated approach to the teaching of mathematics; and especially,
• the incorporation of the Common Essential Learnings.

Saskatchewan Education advocates integrating department foundation initiatives in the teaching of mathematics. These include:

• the Common Essential Learnings;
• the Adaptive Dimension;
• Gender Equity;
• Indian and Métis Curriculum Perspectives; and,
• Resource-based Learning.