The math instruction program in the largest K-12 public school district in the nation will undergo a significant overhaul in the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year. The new curriculum, known as Illustrative Mathematics (IM), focuses on visualization, discovery, and collaboration, in contrast to traditional math instruction methods. This approach aims to improve problem-solving skills and boost student performance, aligning with the NYC Solves Initiative to enhance test scores across New York City Public Schools.
IM, trademarked but offered for free by Illustrative Mathematics, diverges from the conventional teacher-centered demonstration style of teaching math. Instead, students are encouraged to visualize mathematical processes, engage in discussions with peers, and explain their reasoning to teachers. This shift in approach is part of a nationwide trend towards more interactive and student-centered learning methods.
Real-world experiences play a key role in this new learning model, allowing students to apply math skills in practical situations such as budgeting, shopping, and meal planning. Teachers like Kayla Dawes at Frederick Douglass Academy in Harlem have already undergone training on the IM curriculum and are enthusiastic about the potential benefits for students. Ms. Dawes highlighted how IM can be adapted for different grade levels, promoting active engagement and critical thinking.
Despite the positive aspects of the IM curriculum, some educators have expressed concerns about its implementation. Questions remain about its impact on test scores, the time-consuming nature of the problem-solving process, and the lack of opportunities for peer collaboration in homework assignments. However, advocates believe that the shift towards student-centered learning is a step in the right direction to empower all students and foster a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts.
As New York City prepares to implement IM in its public schools, educators, parents, and students alike are called to embrace this new approach to math instruction. By involving the community in this educational shift, stakeholders hope to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all students.
With the increasing adoption of IM across the country, it is evident that a transformation is underway in math education. By prioritizing visualization, discovery, and collaboration, schools are paving the way for a more engaging and impactful learning experience for students nationwide.
This list features the Los Angeles Unified School District, which is the second-largest public K-12 system in the United States.
The Epoch Times attempted to reach out to Illustrative Mathematics company officials for comment, but they declined to speak. However, their website does showcase case studies from districts in three different states.
One such case study highlighted the Homer Plessy Community Schools district in New Orleans, which saw a 13 percent increase in the average state test score for eighth-grade math following the implementation of IM in 2021.
Another case study focused on Des Moines, Iowa, where a 2022 survey revealed that students and educators found the Illustrative Mathematics curriculum to be more engaging and enjoyable compared to previous materials. However, no data regarding improved test scores or student performance was provided.
Similarly, a 2022 case study of grades K-5 in the Greeley-Evans District 6 in Colorado did not offer any specific figures related to academic achievement. However, it did note that classroom behavior had improved, with the number of discipline referrals decreasing from 700 to 300 in one year. This positive change was attributed to students being more interested in their work and causing fewer disruptions due to boredom.
Principal Alison Ferguson from the district emphasized the need to shift students away from passive learning, stating that IM had played a significant role in achieving this goal.
