Illustrative Mathematics (IM) is a non-profit organization that aims to provide quality mathematics education to students in the United States. The organization was founded in 2011 by William McCallum, a mathematics professor at the University of Arizona, and Karen Coe, a former math teacher and curriculum developer. IM’s primary goal is to develop and distribute high-quality mathematics curricula that align with the Common Core State Standards.
IM’s curriculum is designed to be both challenging and accessible. It emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and conceptual understanding over rote memorization and formulaic procedures. The curriculum is organized around mathematical tasks that engage students in open-ended investigations, encourage them to make conjectures, and prompt them to justify their reasoning. These tasks are designed to be accessible to a wide range of learners, from struggling students to gifted and talented students.
IM’s curriculum is also designed to be flexible. Teachers can adapt the tasks to meet the needs of their students and to fit with their instructional goals. The curriculum is also designed to be easy to use. It includes detailed lesson plans, student materials, and professional development resources for teachers.
IM’s curriculum is available for free on their website, and the organization also offers professional development courses for teachers. The curriculum has been adopted by several school districts across the United States, and it has received positive reviews from educators and students alike.
One of the key strengths of IM’s curriculum is its focus on conceptual understanding. Rather than simply teaching students how to perform mathematical procedures, the curriculum encourages students to develop a deep understanding of the underlying concepts. This approach helps students to see mathematics as a coherent and meaningful subject, rather than a collection of disconnected rules and formulas.
Another strength of IM’s curriculum is its emphasis on problem-solving. The curriculum encourages students to engage with challenging problems that require them to use critical thinking skills and to make connections between different areas of mathematics. This approach helps students to develop perseverance, resilience, and a growth mindset, all of which are important for success in mathematics and in life.
Overall, Illustrative Mathematics is an innovative and effective approach to mathematics education that has the potential to transform the way that mathematics is taught in the United States. Its focus on conceptual understanding and problem-solving can help students to develop a deep appreciation for mathematics and to see its relevance to their lives.
