Math Integration

Science and engineering cannot happen without math. By using Smithsonian Science for the Classroom, teachers can efficiently prepare students to meet both science and mathematics standards.

Throughout K-5, most of the math that students use in Smithsonian Science for the Classroom is in support of data collection and analysis. Common Core connections are highlighted throughout each Teacher Guide. The math standards used most frequently by students are summarized in the tables at the end of this page.

Kindergarten engineers use counters to record which of two objects is warmer.

When kindergarten engineers count objects that represent data and compare the total counts they develop number sense while also furthering their understanding of what measurable attributes different objects have.

Students measure and record the volume of water they filtered.

Measuring attributes such as length and volume, recording measurements as data, and using data tables and graphs help students develop the ability to use patterns in data to develop evidence for sensemaking.

Students graph precipitation data to help them solve a water resource problem.

While making sense of phenomena and problems across the Smithsonian Science for the Classroom series, students have opportunities to review, use, and strengthen math concepts learned in previous years. Students have additional opportunities to use math in lesson extensions, including occasional previews of math concepts they will learn in upcoming grades. The following tables show which Common Core Mathematics standards are developed and used in which modules.

Common Core Mathematics standards developed and used in the K-2 modules

Common Core Mathematics standards developed and used in the 3-5 modules