Looking for a Supplemental Math Program? Look No Further!

Olean City School District is currently piloting a new online supplemental math program—TenMarks, which will provide students with additional individualized math practice! A pilot group of 1st grade through Algebra I students, recently began using the program in January after teachers were provided start up information through a TenMarks webinar. 

Embedded Support: TenMarks is an online program that enables students to practice and master math concepts—one topic at a time. This program allows students to work independently, from the direction of a teacher, or allows them to practice on their own, anytime. When students work on TenMarks, they have access to hints and video lessons on EVERY problem, so if they can't recall something, or didn't quite get the topic when it was covered in class, they can quickly review the content, and move forward thereby eliminating math frustrations and improving motivation and confidence. 

Individualized Instruction: This program also allows teachers to closely monitor student progress and encourages individualized learning. Teachers can choose from setting specific grade level standards for students or utilizing program recommendations to create individualized playlists for students. As students work through their individualized playlists, if they are unable to reach proficiency on a topic, TenMarks provides immediate targeted intervention by assigning an “Amplifier” to follow up with more detailed instruction. After the Amplifier, the student receives a do-over assignment that measures the effect of the instant remediation. Teachers also have the opportunity to closely examine student work and identify specific problem areas while reviewing progress and by providing specific feedback to students through the use of assignments, grade-level assessments, and standardized assessments.

Student Motivation: TenMarks also offers a reward zone for some extra motivation! Students have the opportunity to earn certificates as they master specific concepts, which then unlocks educational computer games that students can play after they complete their work. Students are also provided easy access to TenMarks through any internet-enabled device including laptops, netbooks, classroom computers and tablets.

Parent Engagement: TenMarks also allows parents to stay on top of what their child is doing via personal account information. After students have a premium account created parents are provided a parent login and password to monitor and assist with their child’s progress. Providing home access to students and parents allows parent engagement in student work and notable conversations with teachers. 

Currently, Olean City School District is examining ways in which this program could benefit students throughout the school year and summer by identifying ways to increase student access to technology within and outside the school day! This program will assist students by improving their math skills and confidence by answering Common Core aligned math items, including multi-part and constructed response answer types based on the PARCC prototypes. At this point, teachers are excited to begin embedding this program in their classroom instruction. One classroom teacher stated “I’m excited to use this program in my classroom as it will assist in tailoring instruction to meet the individual student needs!”