A Longitudinal Comparison of the Effects of the Connected Mathematics Program and Other Curricula on Middle School Students' Learning of Algebra

University Of Delaware, Newark DE

Investigators

Abstract

This project will compare the effects on algebraic learning when using the Connected Math Program to the effects of using other (non-NSF supported) middle school mathematics curriculum materials at the middle school level. The research questions to be addressed by the project are: What are the similarities and differences between the intended treatment of algebra in the CMP curriculum and in the non-CMP curricula? What are the key features of the CMP and non-CMP experience for students and teachers, and how might these features explain performance differences of CMP and non-CMP students? What are the similarities and differences in performance between CMP students and a comparable group of non-CMP students on tasks measuring a broad spectrum of mathematical thinking and reasoning skills, with a focus on algebra? The algebra focus skills/concepts to be assessed are: conceptual understanding and problem solving; algebraic manipulative skills; solution strategies, representations and mathematical justifications.