MTTC Lower Elementary Education (PK-3) Math Subtest [Subarea One Objective #3-D]

Language of Mathematics

The specialized vocabulary, symbols, and syntax used to communicate mathematical ideas and concepts.

Example: The language of mathematics includes terms such as "add," "subtract," "greater than," "equal to," "sum," "product," and mathematical symbols like +, -, =,

Format of Assessments

The structure and organization of the assessment, including the types of questions, tasks, or prompts used to elicit student responses.

Example: Formats of mathematics assessments may include multiple-choice questions, open-ended questions, problem-solving tasks, fill-in-the-blank, or matching exercises.

Context of Assessments

The setting, situation, or real-world context in which mathematics assessments are presented.

Example: Contexts of mathematics assessments might include word problems, real-life scenarios, or situations that require students to apply mathematical concepts to practical situations.

Accessibility

The extent to which assessment materials, questions, and instructions are designed to be easily understood and completed by all students, including those with diverse backgrounds or learning needs.

Example: Providing clear and concise instructions, using age-appropriate language, providing visual supports, or allowing additional time for students to process and respond to questions to enhance accessibility.

Language Support

Strategies and accommodations provided to support students' understanding and expression of mathematical ideas when language barriers or challenges exist.

Example: Language supports might include providing bilingual glossaries or dictionaries, using visual aids or diagrams to illustrate concepts, providing sentence starters, or allowing students to use manipulatives.

Verbalizing Mathematical Thinking

Articulating or expressing one's mathematical reasoning, problem-solving strategies, or understanding through spoken or written language.

Example: Verbalizing mathematical thinking involves explaining the steps taken to solve a problem, justifying mathematical choices, or describing the relationships between mathematical concepts.

Translating Contextual Problems

Interpreting and converting real-world or contextual information presented in a problem into a mathematical representation or equation.

Example: Translating contextual problems in mathematics might involve identifying relevant information, determining the appropriate mathematical operations, or creating a diagram or model to represent the situation.