Mathematics Students Can Count On: A Focus On Minority Students' Achievement

Attention is given to the latter because "during later elementary school years...operational thought is tied to practical, concrete problems" (Bybee & Sund, p. 96). [...]in accordance with recommendations from the Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics (NCTM, 1989), high interest problem solving work is included to demonstrate the value of mathematics in daily activities and to challenge critical thinking skills in an enjoyable setting. The NCTM Standards (NCTM, 1989) instead call for the introduction of algebraic concepts as early as fifth grade. Because "inadequate preparation in mathematics imposes a special economic handicap on minorities" (NRC, 1989), MEP provides an opportunity for a stronger foundation in problem solving and algebra so that minority pupils are more likely to select and participate in more advanced courses in the high school curriculum. [...]the goal of systemic change in the elementary and middle school curricula is achieved on several levels. The program reaches teachers in the target schools by offering them the ideas presented in the MEP activities because lead teachers not only supervise the tutoring program but communicate with their faculty concerning the cooperative and manipulative activities they have experienced. [...]the scope of the program includes not only the middle school pupil but also the teaching population in the target schools.