After-School Math PLUS: After-School Math PLUS, funded by the National Science Foundation, targets students from low-income families in grades 3-8 who attend afterschool programs. Students engage in fun, real-world mathematics activities and then create an exhibit that displays the math skills and content they have learned. Families and community members gather together to celebrate students’ work at a culminating event that takes place at a science museum or other community site, creating a unique partnership between afterschool centers and museums.
After-School Math PLUS also provides activity modifications for youth with disabilities, which is implemented in inclusive settings through a project called Afterschool Inclusive Math. (Read more about Afterschool Inclusive Math) The program features: - A standards-based math activity program that is informal and fun, with built –in literacy, science, and career connections
- Inquiry-based activities conducted at afterschool centers, with visits to the museum to learn exhibit building and presentation skills
- Modifications for youth with a broad range of physical, sensory, cognitive, and social/emotional disabilities
- Teenage museum explainers from diverse cultural backgrounds who serve as mentors and role models
- Student-created math exhibits that are displayed in community-based public spaces
- Family involvement in the form of information sharing and attendance at a culminating event where students present their exhibits
Program MaterialsThe After-School Math PLUS program materials include an Implementation Guide and four thematic units: ArtMath, the Built Environment, Jump Rope Math and MusicMath. The activities meets the NCTM standards, develop essential skills and help students find the math in everyday experiences. Each unit is individually bound and, with the implementation guide, are available as a set in a clear plastic carrying case. |