What is it all about?

It is the explicit and systematic teaching of Mathematics and Statistics. It is based on scientific evidence and research on how the brain learns. The foundation of the Science of Maths is the Science of Learning. 

Effective Mathematic Instruction is a combination of the Evidence Based Teaching Principles from the Science of Learning and the Evidence Based Elements from the Science of Maths. 

Evidence-Based Teaching Principles of the Science of Learning

The science of learning provides a foundation for effective teaching practices across all subject areas. Three key principles underpin this approach:

1. Explicit Instruction

Direct, clear, and purposeful teaching is essential for student learning in all subjects. By explicitly modeling, explaining, and practicing skills and concepts, teachers ensure that students develop a strong foundation of knowledge across the curriculum.

2. Formative Assessment

Ongoing assessment that informs instruction is vital for student success in every subject. By regularly gathering information about student understanding, teachers can identify areas of strength and weakness and adjust teaching accordingly to meet individual needs in all disciplines.

3. Cumulative and Sequential Learning with a Scope and Sequence

Building knowledge progressively and coherently, guided by a carefully planned scope and sequence, is crucial for long-term retention in all subject areas. By sequencing instruction logically and connecting new information to prior learning, teachers help students develop a deep and interconnected understanding across the curriculum.

Evidence-Based Elements of the Science of Maths:

Similar to reading and writing, we can think of math proficiency as a blending of : 

• Concepts

• Procedures

• Strategies

• Reasoning

• Disposition

Concepts:

Understanding concepts, operations, and relations 

Procedures:

Using procedures flexibly, accurately, and efficiently.

Strategies:

Formulating, representing, and solving problems 

Reasoning:

Reflecting, explaining, and justifying 

Disposition:

Seeing math as sensible, useful, and worthwhile 

To help students achieve math proficiency, teachers should : 

• Use a focused, coherent progression of math learning with emphasis on proficiency in key topics

• Develop conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and problem-solving skills at the same time 

• Use multiple approaches to meet the needs of students; explicit instruction should be used regularly 

• Focus on proficiency with whole numbers, fractions, geometry, and measurement; these are critical for algebra 

• Use formative assessment on a regular basis to assess student learning 

The Science of Maths Principals of Learning: 

1. Use explicit instruction 

2. Teach clear and concise math language 

3. Use concrete, pictorial, and virtual representations 

4. Use number lines for learning concepts and procedures 

5. Provide deliberate instruction on solving word problems 

6. Use timed activities as one way to build math fluency