National experts in the fields of math education, mathematics, early childhood education, and gifted education for Grades K, 1, and 2 wrote units.
Overview of Objectives of the K-2 Curriculum Units
Geometry
- Interpret and describe the physical world with geometric ideas using corresponding vocabulary
- Use basic shapes and spatial reasoning to model objects in the physical environment
- Recognize, name, build, draw, and describe a variety of 2- and 3-dimensional shapes
- Compare and sort 2- and 3-dimensional shapes
- Compose and decompose 2- and 3-dimensional shapes from different perspectives and orientations
- Describe, name, and interpret direction and distance in navigating space
- Relate geometry ideas to number and measurement
Measurement
- Recognize and use attributes of length, area, volume, and weight
- Compare and order objects using these attributes
- Understand linear measure as an iteration of units
- Understand the need for equal length units
- Measure using a variety of nonstandard and standard (inch and centimeter) units
- Select an appropriate unit and tool to measure
- Develop inverse relationship between the size of the unit and the number of units used
- Represent measurements and discrete data in pictures and bar graphs
Number
- Represent numbers using expanded notation and base-ten representation.
- Order numbers on a number line.
- Compare numbers and record results using >, <, or =.
- Add numbers within 100 (Level 1).
- Add and subtract numbers within 1000 (Level 2).
- Use place value understanding to round, add and subtract numbers.
- Determine whether a number is odd or even.
- Describe and classify numbers according to their properties.
Connecting Number and Algebra
- Understand the meaning of the equal sign, equality, inequality, expression and equation.
- Use the commutative, associative, and identity properties of addition.
- Write and use equations to solve addition and subtraction problems.
- Use letters and shapes (variables) to represent unknown values.
- Use relational thinking to solve equations with addition.
- Solve multi-step contextual addition and subtraction problems.
- Assess reasonableness of results using mental computation and estimation.
Special Features of the Project M² Units
- Each lesson is differentiated to accommodate individual learning styles, prior experiences, and levels of understanding. “Think Deeply” questions focus on critical and creative thinking skills and ask students to extend and/or synthesize their learning. “Hint Cards” are provided to help students who need more support. “Think Beyond Cards” are included for students who are ready for increased challenges.
- Employing a hallmark of enrichment teaching and learning, experiments and/or projects are included in each unit. These activities enable students to review concepts, synthesize their learning, and put to use the information in real-world, practical ways.
