Research, and Revision of the TIMS/Math Trailblazer Elementary Mathematics Curriculum

University Of Illinois At Chicago, Chicago IL

Investigators

Abstract

Developed with NSF funds through the "TIMS (Teaching Integrated Mathematics and Science)" project, "Math Trailblazers" is a K-5 mathematics curriculum integrating a significant science component. This five-year project will undertake a study of the use of "Trailblazers" as well as a revision of the curriculum. The study will involve researchers from five universities (U. of Illinois, Chicago; U. of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign; U. of Minnesota; St. Xavier U. and Kansas State U.). It will investigate student achievement, video study of lessons, and an investigation of the school and community contexts of implementation. The revision will involve updating problem-solving contexts, a review of assessment strategies, an update on the use of technology and the rewriting of several lessons. New classroom materials will be field tested. Other materials to be developed are a revision of the teacher enhancement modules and a parents' guide. Evaluation will be conducted as part of the research component. The reviews of the orginal proposal and the IMD budget could not support the work plan first proposed. After some negotiation the proposers submitted a revised work plan and timetable which are documented in the jacket.