Research Paper on "Middle School Mathematics Curriculum and Standards"

Research Paper 3 pages (1118 words) Sources: 3

[EXCERPT] . . . .

Middle School Mathematics Curriculum and Standards

In a preface to a discussion about curriculum and standards for middle school, the National Council on Teachers of Mathematics (n.d.) notes

The middle grades represent a significant turning point in students' lives [and they] solidify conceptions about themselves as learners of mathematics. They arrive at conclusions about their competence in mathematics, their attitudes, their interest, and their motivation. These conceptions will influence how they approach the study of mathematics in later years, which in turn will affect their later career and personal opportunities.

The standards guide curriculum development in ten areas: numbers and operations, algebra, geometry, measurement, data analysis and probability, problem solving, reasoning and proof, communications, connections, and representation. For each area, the standards specify what students are expected to know.

Likewise the K-12 Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are designed to provide a framework on which curricula can be built to enable students to progress from kindergarten through high school graduation. The CCSS were developed by the National Governors Association and the Council of Chief State School Officers. Their efforts were voluntary; their goal is nationwide adoption and implementation, which they believe will better inform instruction and lead to higher student achievement with "strong shared expectations" (on the road) and collaboration and shared resources among educators.

At the present time, states set their own standards. There is no federal mandate. Many states use the NCTM standards in the creation of their own standards.

Summary of NCTM Standards for Students in Grades Six through Eight

Numbers and Operations

At all grade levels, this standard encompasses the understanding and representation of numbers and number systems and relationships among numbers. In middle school, this includes the ability to work with fractions, decimals, and percentages. Students are also expected to develop an understanding of large numbers and be able to use exponential and scientific notation.

Algebra

Algebra covers patterns, relations, and functions, including the appropriate notation. Math programs should also enable students to develop and use models and to analyze change in various contexts. Middle school students should be able to use tables and graphs and a basic understanding of the concept of variables.

Geometry

Geometry concerns two- and three-dimensional shapes. At the middle school level, students should be able understand lengths, perimeters, areas, and volumes and use these measurements in the development of geometric ideas and relationships.

Measurement

These standards foster progression through an understanding of measurable attributes and the tools, techniques, and formulas that are used. Students in grades six through eight should be able to use metric and U.S. systems of measurement, use formulas to determine areas of geometric shapes, and solve problems involving scale factors, ratios, proportion, and derived measurements for attributes such as density and velocity.

Data Analysis

In levels K-12, students build an understanding of how to formulate questions that can be answered by data collection. In grades six through eight, students should be able to design studies and collect data, which they then represent graphically with items such as histograms and box plots. They will interpret data by finding ranges, means, and percentiles.

In the following areas, NCTM does not provide specific standards for middle school students. All standards are prefaced with the words "Instructional programs from prekindergarten through grade 12 should enable all students to -- ."

Problem Solving

These standards support development of students' abilities… READ MORE

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