UCSMP: Everyday Mathematics

1st-3rd Grade Instructional Components & Time Management Suggestions

Math Messages
Most lesson plans include a Math Message. These messages may contain brief problems to solve, directions to follow, tasks to be complete or brief quizzes. These tasks are designed to be completed independently before the beginning of the formal lesson. Typically students complete the math message first thing in the morning while chores like attendance and lunch count are being taken care of, or as students are filtering into the classroom after lunch or recess. Many lessons begin with a brief follow-up of the Math Message.
Math Boxes
Math Boxes are sets of review and practice problems and are included with most lessons. These exercises are designed to be completed independently and may be completed first thing in the morning, as students return from outside classes or recess, as part of the lesson's independent activities, or as part of a homework assignment. Because these boxes provide continual review, their use should not be considered optional. Math Boxes can also be used for assessment.
Explorations
Explorations are small-group cooperative learning activities. Most explorations are manipulative-based activities designed to help children build an experiential base for later conceptual development. A number of exploration options are suggested for each unit. One commonly used plan for integrating five or six exploration activities into each unit is to set aside one or two special "Explorations Days" per unit, with small groups of children rotating to different activity stations every 15-20 minutes. Another plan is to have a short exploration time everyday over a period of several days, allowing the small groups of children to participate in a different exploration each day.
Projects
A number of thematic projects are suggested for each grade level. These projects usually take several days to complete. Because the subject matter is often cross-curricular, many Everyday Mathematics projects are appropriate for use as part of the science, social studies and arts curriculum.
Minute Math +
Minute Math + activities are brief mental math problems for use during transition and spare moments throughout the day.
Games
Everyday Mathematics games are used to engage children's interest in basic skills practice. These games can be played as part of the independent activities section of lessons, during free choice times throughout the day, and at home. To provides students with the on-going skills practice they need, games should become part of your daily routine.

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