If I Had a Hammer’s innovative 42-instructional-hour program, Hammer Math, is designed to "jump start" students who are struggling with mathematics. The fun, hands-on approach serves to reduce student anxiety, improve mathematics skills and attitude. The program is designed for students in grades 4 - 9.

All materials are aligned with the National Council for Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Principles and Standards for School Mathematics (2000). 

This program can be delivered at any time at the discretion of the school. This includes as an afterschool program, as a supplement to existing curriculum, or as a summer school program. There is no limit to the number of students who can participate in the program.

Program Scope

• Measurement
• Fractions
• Scaling
• Find perimeter
• Find area
• Find volume
• Angles
• Patterns
• Solving for the unknown

Professional Development

To deliver the Hammer Math program, teachers must first attend a 3-day professional development program. 

Activities and methods of instruction align with the National Staff Development Council (NSDC) standards on professional development. The program also embodies research findings from the Horizon Research Group regarding professional development for mathematics. Topics covered include:

• Mathematical Content
  • Rational number
  • Algebraic thinking
  • Measurement 
• Instructional Techniques 
  • Classroom management techniques
  • Effective use of manipulatives
  • Collaborative group work
  • Assessment practices 
• The use of If I Had A Hammer programs