Rational Number Reasoning Synthesis Project Support from the National Science Foundation
We are synthesizing the mathematics education and cognitive psychology literature on rational number reasoning (RNR), which includes equipartitioning; multiplication and division; fractions; ratio, rate, and proportion; decimals and percents; area and volume; and scaling and similarity. We have constructed an annotated bibliographic system, a database of literature reviews and assessment items, and are identifying the learning trajectories that seem most consensus supported in the literature. Click here to access the GISMO Rational Number Reasoning Database.
DELTA: Diagnostic E-Learning Trajectories Approach Support from the National Science Foundation
We have launched a project to build diagnostic assessments for concepts in rational number reasoning for grades K-8. This cluster of topics is key to successful pursuit of advanced mathematics, including algebra. We are collaborating with Measurement and Assessment researchers from the Berkeley Evaluation and Assessment Research (BEAR) Center at the University of California, and with Wireless Generation, a company producing diagnostic tools for schools and districts linked to centralized information systems. The project includes an analysis of the current state tests and a content analysis of common curricula, and incorporates results from our RNR Synthesis Project (see above), which is identifying the constructs underlying this reasoning and link them into cross-grade learning trajectories. We are building both paper and pencil and computer-based tools.
North Carolina Integrated Mathematics Project Support from North Carolina Department of Public Instruction Math-Science Partnership Program
The NC Integrated Mathematics Project (NCIM) combines the expertise of mathematics educators of North Carolina State University, content specialists from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, along with support from the North Carolina New Schools Project to create a program to directly support implementation of an integrated mathematics curriculum (CORE-Plus) by teachers in six North Carolina STEM Schools, and to provide additional support and information for teachers throughout the state whose schools are investigating or implementing components of the curriculum. Please visit the NCIM website for more details.
Graphs 'n Glyphs Support from the National Science Foundation
We have designed animation software for upper elementary and middle school students. The software imitates professional animation software while making the underlying mathematics explicit. The major topics taught are the use of the number line (positive and negative integers) and Cartesian graphing, ratio and proportion, and transformations including translation, rotation, reflection, and scaling.
