Introduction to Math Lab

Welcome to the Deer Park Math Lab website.  The Deer Park Math Lab is currently using a program that was created by James Slosson to help enrich students’ math ability.  The Math Lab is being taught by Scott Daratha, Amy Foley, David Karas and Jamie Shepherd.  The program is overseen by Dr. Jeff Dunn.

We have put this course online to provide easy access to parents and students.  Our hope is that parents will check the site to stay informed about their child’s education.  We hope students will use this site to stay on top of their studies whenever they are away from school.

Below is a description of the Math Lab Program.  Please take time to navigate around this site and thank you for taking the time to become familiar with this exciting new program.

This mathematics program was created especially for  students who struggle with math.

These are the kids who have learned to dislike (hate) math since the early grades when they found out that they just did not get it as easily as the other students.  They have difficulty doing homework; they have difficulty completing assignments; they have difficulty understanding the book; and they have difficulty understanding why people think math is important.

Kids who struggle can learn math.  This program has been successful in a number of different settings.  It is “high touch” instead of “high tech.”  Students improve their understanding of math by applying mathematical thinking and computation to discover concepts and solve real problems. Students also practice basic computational skills. When used as intended, this mathematics program has dramatically improved student performance in the classroom and raised scores on high stakes tests.  (To see some research on achievement go to www.techmathlab.net.)

The Foundation Concepts that Support this Math Program

1.  Relationships.  The program promotes and builds relationships between the teacher and the students and between the students.  We expect the Math Lab to be a “safe,” caring, and productive environment.  Clear rules for behavior and work, deep expectations, respect and courtesy thrive in an atmosphere of cooperation.

2.  Structural Changes.  The Math Lab program is most successful when accompanied by structural changes that improve chances for student success.  Multi-year looping or block classes, emphasis on relationships, continuous progress structure, mastery attainment (B or better work only; we have a 95% standard), and variable credit are key elements supporting this instructional program.

3.  Coordination Between Problem Solving and Drill & Practice.  Students continue to learn and build computational skills through teacher-led learning.  They drill and practice in arithmetic skills.  At the same time students apply their skills in solving problems that involve geometry, algebra, and mathematical reasoning.

4.  Useful Application of Mathematics.  The content of the program was created by analyzing the tasks that adult workers and homeowners must know to successfully complete high school, enter a skilled trade, continue in a college-preparatory curriculum, and engage in normal adult pursuits of money management and home ownership.