Intervention and Extended Learning Opportunities

Exemplars authentic, problem-solving tasks are rich supplements for use in Title I programs and in the traditional classroom. Material can also be used for intervention and with after school tutoring programs and summer school sessions.

Our engaging and authentic, problem-solving math tasks are differentiated at three levels and designed to capture students' interests.

Rubrics and anchor papers (hallmarks of Exemplars) assist teachers in identifying students' specific strengths and areas to be improved in the problem-solving process. Doing so, enables teachers to help students reach higher levels of thinking and gain greater mathematical understanding.

Tasks emphasize NCTM process standards and may be used to assess student performance, to enhance instruction or as portfolio pieces. In addition, teachers may use Exemplars standards-based tasks:

To engage Title I students and closely evaluate mathematical understanding
As a tool for intervention
To extend learning opportunities for students as part of school tutoring sessions, after school programs or as part of summer school
To enhance other disciplinary areas
As a pre- and post-test to track student progress
To help students become strong self- and peer-assessors
As a problem of the week or for homework
To share with parents at conferences

"I am a special education teacher and I have been using the math Exemplars with my students. They enjoy doing them and have actually asked to do them. I have noticed that with each problem we solve more and more students are trying to stretch their thinking so they can become 'Experts.'"

J. Reardon
Special Education Teacher
Georgia

"Another great aspect about Exemplars is the more accessible versions that we use successfully with many of our students who struggle. The students are able to be successful with similar problems to their peers as opposed to requiring a different problem entirely and potentially feeling left out. The more challenging versions are used for our more talented math students as well."

J. Francisco
Principal
Massachusetts