There is a new Best Evidence in Brief – well, there was one earlier this week but I’m a bit behind in my mails. In it information about new reports on math:
The What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) has released new intervention reports on two core mathematics curricula that seek to improve math achievement in the secondary grades: The University of Chicago School Mathematics Project and Saxon Math.
The University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP) utilizes a student-centered approach to learning, incorporating problem solving, real-world applications, and the use of technology. The WWC identified two studies of UCSMP Algebra and one study of multiple UCSMP courses that fell within the scope of the WWC’s secondary math topic area and met WWC research standards. According to the research, UCSMP Algebra I has potentially positive effects on both general math achievement and algebra for secondary students. In addition, the cumulative effect of multiple UCSMP courses was found to have potentially positive effects on general math achievement for these students. The full report can be found here.
Saxon Math is designed for students in grades K-12 and uses an incremental structure that distributes content throughout the year. The WWC identified two studies of Saxon Algebra I that fell within the scope of the WWC’s secondary math topic area and met WWC research standards. According to the research, Saxon Algebra I has no discernible effects on algebra achievement for secondary students. The full report can be found here.