Our Program
Academics

Math

Math Vision & Philosophy

Empowering students to unlock mathematical thinking, solve real-world problems with confidence, and communicate their reasoning effectively through multisensory, research-based instruction. We challenge strong math students through depth (deeper understanding, complex applications, mathematical reasoning) rather than just speed. 

Our Approach

At Charles Armstrong School, we recognize that our students have diverse mathematical needs. Some require targeted support for dyscalculia or math-related challenges, while others are ready for advanced challenge and extension. Our mathematics program is specifically designed to meet every student where they are—providing both remediation and enrichment as needed—to build a foundation for lifelong mathematical competency.

List of 6 items.

  • MathUSee

    Our multisensory, mastery-based curriculum for students who benefit from systematic, explicit instruction with concrete materials.
    • Concrete → Representational → Abstract (CRA) progression
    • Hands-on manipulatives for every concept
    • Mastery-based learning with continuous progress monitoring
    • Student-friendly language and visual supports
    • "Build, Write, Say" methodology for deep retention

    Who thrives in this program?
    Students who excel with hands-on learning, systematic instruction, and  mastery-based pacing. This approach is ideal for learners who benefit from seeing and touching mathematical concepts, building deep understanding before moving forward, and experiencing success at each step. Many students find that the multisensory approach and explicit instruction help them build both competence and confidence in mathematics.
  • Illustrative Math

    Our grade-level program for students working at or above Common Core standards, featuring problem-based learning and collaborative discourse.
    • Problem-based learning that develops critical thinking
    • Rich mathematical discussions and discourse
    • Real-world applications and modeling
    • Multiple entry points for differentiation
    Who thrives in this program?
    Students with strong foundational skills, grade-level fluency, and the ability to engage in abstract mathematical reasoning with appropriate  scaffolding. Students are typically scoring at or above the 50th percentile on the Track My Progress Universal Screener and demonstrate readiness for grade-level content or above.
  • Supplemental Digital Practice

    Both programs are supplemented with adaptive, digital practice tools used across all grade levels:

    ST Math: A visual, game-based program that builds conceptual understanding through spatial-temporal reasoning.

    IXL: An adaptive practice platform providing targeted skill reinforcement and immediate feedback.
  • Small Group Placement

    Considerations:
    ✓ Assessment scores (Common Core + curriculum-aligned)
    ✓ Cognitive profiles (processing speed, working memory)
    ✓ Social dynamics and peer interactions
    ✓ Individual strengths and learning styles

    Result: Precise placement ensuring every student receives instruction  tailored to their unique learning profile—whether they need intensive support or advanced challenge.
  • Diagnostic and Prescriptive Planning

    Our instructional approach is driven by continuous assessment and data  analysis. We use a comprehensive assessment system to ensure every student receives precisely the instruction they need.
    • Initial Placement: Comprehensive diagnostic testing ensures students start at the right level
    • Progress Monitoring: Regular assessments track growth and inform instructional adjustments
    • Flexible Grouping: Students move between programs and groups as data indicates readiness
    • Targeted Intervention: Specific skill gaps are identified and addressed immediately
    • Family Communication: Assessment data guides our regular updates on student progress
    This diagnostic and prescriptive approach ensures that instruction is always responsive to each student's current needs—neither too easy nor too challenging, but precisely calibrated for optimal growth.
  • Monitoring Progress

    Math Assessments:
    • Track My Progress (3x yearly): A standardized, computer-adaptive assessment that identifies students'  mathematical strengths and support needs across grade-level standards. This aligns with state and national standards and provides critical data for program placement and progress monitoring.
    • Curriculum Placement Test: (New students only): Determines the appropriate starting level by covering mathematical  concepts from basic operations through algebra. This comprehensive  assessment progresses from simple to complex problems until the student reaches their skill ceiling, indicating which program and level is the best fit.
    • Pre-Tests: Administered before beginning new units to determine what a student already knows about specific concepts. This helps teachers identify if the student is ready for the upcoming lesson or needs additional foundation work.
    • Lesson Tests: Brief evaluations following completion of a single lesson (typically five classes worth of content) to check comprehension before moving to new material.
    • Unit Tests: Comprehensive assessments covering all concepts within a series of lessons, typically administered quarterly. These demonstrate overall mastery and readiness to progress to the next unit.

How We Develop Mathematicians

At Charles Armstrong School, creating mathematicians isn't about racing through curriculum—it's about building deep understanding, mathematical confidence, and a genuine love for problem-solving.

We Meet Students Precisely Where They Are

Through comprehensive diagnostic assessment—including universal screeners, placement tests, pre-assessments, and ongoing progress monitoring—we know exactly what each student understands and what they're ready to learn next. Our small group instruction allows us to tailor every lesson to students' cognitive profiles, learning styles, and current skill levels.

We Partner with Research

Through our collaboration with the UCSF Dyslexia Center and evidence-based programs like Math-U-See, Illustrative Mathematics, ST Math, and IXL, we ensure that our approach is grounded in the latest research on how students with learning differences develop mathematical proficiency.

We Build Both Competence and Confidence

Math anxiety is real, and many of our students arrive having internalized that they "aren't math people." Through systematic instruction, appropriate scaffolding, and experiencing success at each step, we help students rewrite that narrative. They leave us not just with mathematical skills, but with mathematical identities as confident problem-solvers.

We Build from the Ground Up

Every mathematical concept begins concretely. Students see it, touch it, and manipulate it with hands-on materials before moving to visual representations and finally to abstract symbols. This Concrete → Representational → Abstract progression ensures that mathematical understanding is built on a solid foundation, not memorized rules.

We Make Every Student a Teacher

Research shows that teaching deepens understanding. In our classrooms, students regularly explain their problem-solving strategies, demonstrate concepts with manipulatives, and lead discussions. When students can articulate their mathematical thinking, they truly own it.

We Differentiate at Every Turn

Some students need systematic remediation with multisensory support. Others need extension activities that deepen understanding through complex challenges. Our fluid grouping and continuous assessment ensure that every student receives exactly what they need—neither overwhelmed nor under-challenged.

We Prioritize Depth Over Speed

True mathematical thinking requires time to develop conceptual understanding, make connections, and engage in rich problem-solving. We challenge students through depth—exploring concepts from multiple angles, tackling complex applications, making connections across topics—rather than simply racing ahead.

We Connect Math to the Real World

Mathematics isn't abstract symbols on paper—it's a tool for solving real problems. Through problem-based learning, real-world applications, and connections to everyday situations, students see that math matters and that they can use it confidently in their lives.