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Ms. Shaener uses the Youcubed Week of Inspirational Math curriculum developed by Jo Boaler of Stanford University for these first few weeks of school. Each lesson begins with a kid-friendly video to help students focus on how to think about math rather than computation. The videos contain healthy mindset messages to help our students see themselves as capable mathematicians:

• Understanding and focus are more important than speed.
• If you struggle with math, that means you’re learning. 
• If something doesn't work, try something different but don't give up.

Discuss and Share

After watching the video, students talk in small groups about their own experiences with math. Ms. Shaener asks questions to help them make connections as they discuss. It’s a judgment-free zone where students feel comfortable sharing both struggles and successes.

Ready, Set, Math!

Following the discussion, Ms. Shaener explains the creative math task for the day. These tasks involve math skills from visualizing quantities to estimating and making convincing arguments — differentiated per grade to meet our students at the right developmental level. Every math activity is different, but they are all high-energy and cooperative. Our students learn that with the right mindset and teamwork, overcoming frustration in math is not only possible but a lot of fun too. 

Support for our Students, Support for our Teachers

We are committed to meeting the individual needs of a diverse group of learners at Severn and believe that children do best when they have a committed team of adults supporting them. Mrs. Shaener helps our Lower School students make math a priority, while also making it fun. She keeps up-to-date on new and better ways to engage our kids in authentic problem-solving activities and works closely with teachers to keep every student moving forward with confidence in math.

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