International and national assessments suggest that U.S. students’ mathematics performance declines drastically as they progress to higher grades. Improvement in K-12 performance remains elusive despite efforts to set more rigorous academic standards, align curriculum materials more closely with those standards, and test more frequently. Such reforms have not changed how math is taught. Math instruction in the United States still focuses more on rules than on making sense of concepts. Until that changes, student performance is unlikely to change. One way to improve instruction is through a more systematic approach to teacher training.


Achieving Equity and Excellence in Mathematics Teaching





Also In this Issue

The Impact of COVID-19 on Math Achievement

By Jennifer Sattem, Matt Dawson and Elizabeth Peyser

Without urgent attention, the problem of unfinished learning will compound as students advance to later grades.





High-Dosage Tutoring

By Beth Schueler

Strong evidence points to equity and well-being benefits from well-designed programs.





Advancing Science Instruction

By Bobbi Newman

State boards can lean into efforts to boost K-12 science literacy and beef up access to high-quality, inquiry-based education.





The Urgent Need for Tailored Math Instruction

By Joel Rose and Michael Watson

States can shift away from grade-level myopia to help students catch up.






10 Lessons Learned from the Science Classroom

By Ryan Fuhrman

Experience with high-stakes accountability informs teacher's standards setting on the state board.





Mulling Changes to Math Instruction

By Jo Boaler and Jennifer Langer-Osuna

A framework proposed in California seeks to boost achievement by increasing the engagement of all students.





Achieving Equity and Excellence in Mathematics Teaching

By Yasemin Copur-Gencturk

States should revamp how teachers are equipped to deliver effective instruction.







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