• a write--‐in student book which allows students in every grade to problem solve, record, and practice right in their own book, saving time lost by copying from book to paper and giving students an ongoing record of their work. Each lesson also includes two pages of practice and homework;

•  Math On The Spot Videos featuring GO Math! authors providing an engaging instructional tutorial for every lesson to       demonstrate important concepts and skills.  QR codes in the print student book allow you and your child to view the videos at home by scanning the code with a smart phone or tablet; and

• a variety of online resources for students to access at home as well as in school via the Think Central website (www-k6.thinkcentral.com). Some of these digital resources are: the student “eBook” which is identical to the hardcopy book your child is given for each chapter, “Mega Math” games, “Math Concept Readers”, “Animated Math Models”, and “iTools” virtual manipulatives. 

Some additional features include:

• an Interactive Student Edition which works on both computers and tablets to provide an online interactive approach to the lesson and that links to both the Math On The Spot Videos as well as to the feature below; and • the Personal Math Trainer which provides personalized practice, homework, and assessment online.

What are the PA Common Core State Standards? The PA Common Core State Standards were developed to establish a clear and consistent set of expectations for student learning. The standards intend to provide a more consistent set of expectations within our state, especially helpful given the mobility of families and expectations of colleges and employers in today’s economy. The mathematics standards ask students to carry out more complex tasks, challenge their higher--‐ order thinking skills, gain and demonstrate in--‐depth mastery, and explain their solutions. The standards emphasize mathematical practices, understanding of core concepts, and fluency with computation skills—with added importance placed on depth of understanding and ability to apply math in novel situations. A major goal of the standards is to avoid teaching math concepts in isolation in order to help students make sense of math and make connections between skills and applications.

What is Math Talk? You will notice questions within each lesson that are labeled Math Talk. These questions encourage students to explain their thinking. Having students verbalize their thinking is important in developing a deep understanding of concepts. Students who can explain a concept or procedure to others really understand that concept or procedure.

How does GO Math! develop math vocabulary? It is important for students to understand the language of math. Each chapter in the GO Math! student book includes the vocabulary words for the chapter on cut apart cards. In addition, there are vocabulary activities, games, and writing activities that begin every chapter. New vocabulary is highlighted within the lessons along with writing opportunities for students to use their math vocabulary words.

How does GO Math! provide real world connections and applications? Problem solving is practiced daily in lessons that include real life application problems. You will notice the Real World problem solving logo used throughout the student book. The problem solving skill or strategy lessons provide strong reading support, and problem solving practice moves from specific strategy practice to mixed strategy practice. Students learn how to use models and representations to help them solve problems.