MATH PROGRAMS FOR SIFE AND ENTERING NEWCOMERS

Bridges Math has two different program streams that support SIFE and Newcomers to become better mathematicians.

Bridges-CUNY Foundational Math Unit of Study for SIFE (up to 3rd grade numeracy)

The Bridges-CUNY Foundational Unit, developed as a CUNY stand-alone supplementary unit, focuses on building the essential skills that SIFE students need to access mathematical content. This unit serves as a model for learning by connecting math to everyday life, helping students understand the relevance of mathematical concepts in practical contexts. It teaches foundational numeracy skills using the four operations and integrates number sense, place value, rounding, addition, subtraction, area, and perimeter to build a strong foundation for multiplication and division skills. The unit employs a traditional mini-lesson structure followed by collaborative work in diverse small groups, making it particularly beneficial for SIFE students who need additional support in mastering basic mathematical skills and concepts. This unit is an excellent starting point for the beginning of the year and also offers virtual materials for many lessons to support remote learners.

Bridges-NYSED Math Program

The Bridges-NYSED Math program for SIFE and Newcomers, piloted in New York State in 2022, uses a Guided Math approach with units on operations with decimals and fractions, rates and ratios, integers, the coordinate plane, expressions, and equations. Students are assessed to determine their skill level and are grouped for teacher-led and independent work based on their needs. Teachers progress monitor student skills using program-embedded assessments.  The program focuses on mathematical vocabulary and problem-solving strategies, with integrated social-emotional learning targets and virtual materials to support remote learning.

Bridges Math Program Resources

If you are already an active member of the NYSED Bridges Math cohort click to access the curriculum.

Watch a short orientation to the Foundational Math Unit

Watch the video to see centers-based learning in a Bridges Math Classroom

Foundational Math for SIFE

Teaching Format

Teacher-facilitated heterogeneous small groups with collaborative learning.

Grouping

Heterogeneous small group instruction with some whole-class instruction.

System of Assessment

Performance task, Pre-Assessment & Post-Assessment and formative assessments are included.

Skills

 

  • Basic Numeracy
  • Use of Visual Models
  • Problem Solving Strategies
  • Strategies for Solving Word Problems

NYSED Math Program for SIFE and Newcomers

Teaching Format

Teacher-led math group in addition to independent, homogenous skill groups working collaboratively.

Grouping

Based on student skills as measured by the pre-assessment.

System of Assessment

Performance Task and Pre-assessments & post-assessments for each unit.

Skills

 

  • Operations with Decimals
  • Dividing Fractions 
  • Ratios and Rates
  • Integers
  • Coordinate Plane Skills
  • Expressions
  • Equations