In the Ontario Mathematics Curriculum there are seven interconnected mathematical processes that support all students to learn and apply mathematical knowledge, concepts and skills. These processes are:
- Problem Solving
- Reasoning and Proving
- Reflecting
- Connecting
- Communicating
- Representing
- Selecting Tools and Strategies
Problem solving and communicating have strong links to all the other processes. A problem-solving approach encourages students to think logically to find a solution or understand something new. When students are involved in reasoning, teachers encourage them to pose questions, make educated guesses, and explain their solutions, both out loud and in writing. The communication, representation, and reflection that occur before, during, and after problem solving helps students to refine their thinking, and can also help them to look at the problem in different ways. This allows them to see that there can be many different ways to solve a problem. When students see how others have solved a problem, they can start to notice and use tools and strategies that are more efficient and accurate.
The mathematical processes cannot be separated from the knowledge, concepts, and skills that students acquire throughout the year. All students problem solve, communicate, reason, reflect, and so on, as they do math in every grade.
Each month, this newsletter will take a closer look at one of the mathematical processes and provide activities for families to explore together. We also invite you to explore our Problem of the Month that can be found here! Our Problem of the Month is designed to engage minds of all ages, encouraging collaboration and creative problem-solving. Each month, you'll find a new mathematical experience that will spark curiosity and foster a love for learning mathematics.