9452851 Maier This project develops a seamless K-8 mathematics curriculum that emphasizes visual thinking consistent with the NCTM Standards. The curriculum extends and revises existing materials developed and published by The Math Learning Center. These materials include Box It or Bag It Mathematics (grades K-2), Opening Eyes to Mathematics (grades 3-4), and the Visual Math Course Guides (grades 5-8). The later is part of the Math and The Mind's Eye materials developed with support from NSF. In addition to extending and revising these materials, the project prepares an Overview that provides a synopsis of the curriculum, including it's philosophical foundations. The Overview identifies the major mathematical strands and traces their development through various parts of the curriculum. The Overview also contains a scope and sequence of the series and suggestions for managing materials, alternate methods of assessment, and appropriate instructional strategies. The series does not contain a textbook, but does include printed materials consisting of course guides and other resources for teachers, suggestions for students' projects and homework, and blackline masters for student pages. The defining characteristic of this curriculum is its emphasis on visual thinking. The curriculum is designed to improve students' ability to communicate mathematically, increase their understanding of mathematical concepts, and improve their attitudes toward mathematics. ***
