Connections in mathematics can be found within a mathematical topic, across strands and process standards, and outside mathematics, such as connections to other subjects or real-world contexts. Connections make mathematics more meaningful and make learning easier. Recognizing and establishing connections can greatly assist students in their efforts to problem-solve, reason, and communicate about mathematics.

This session shows you how to help students do the following:

• Connect new concepts to prior learning
• Recognize and use connections between similar mathematical situations
• Use connections among process standards and strands when solving problems
• Use representations to connect mathematical ideas
• Use connections between mathematics and other subject areas -- science, history, etc.
• Apply mathematics to problems that arise outside the classroom

Instructional programs . . . should enable all students to --

• Recognize and use connections among mathematical ideas
• Understand how mathematical ideas interconnect and build on one another to produce a coherent whole
• Recognize and apply mathematics in contexts outside of mathematics

Principles and Standards of School Mathematics (NCTM, 2000). For more information on this Process Standard, see the NCTM Web site

  Observe a math problem