In the previous sessions, we studied the Communication, Problem Solving, Reasoning and Proof, and Representation Standards. In this session, we will study the Connections Standard. As we examine aspects of connections in the teaching and learning of mathematics, the interconnectedness of the Process Standards themselves will become apparent.

In this session, we will consider three different facets of mathematical connections. We will examine and reflect on connections between mathematical ideas. We will look at examples of how to connect mathematics to the broad curriculum in early education. We will also consider ways to connect mathematics to what happens in a child's world.

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

• Use the connections between mathematical ideas to develop understanding of mathematical concepts
• Connect new mathematical ideas with familiar ones
• Recognize the usefulness of mathematics in everyday life experience
• Use representations and communication to connect mathematical ideas

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