Learning to Unpack Standards-Based Mathematics Teaching through Video-Based Group Conversations

Background

In the United States new curriculum standards for the teaching and learning of mathematics were recently introduced (National Governors Association for Best Practices, 2010). The Common Core Standards for Mathematics present an ambitious vision for high-quality mathematics instruction and include Mathematical Practice Standards that support the development of students’ understanding of central mathematical ideas (as delineated by the Mathematical Content Standards). This vision of mathematics instruction proposes, for example, that students develop conceptual understanding of core mathematical ideas as well as procedural fluency in a range of domains. Additionally, students should construct increasingly sophisticated forms of mathematical argumentation as well as critique the reasoning of others, learn to communicate their reasoning effectively using multiple representations, and make connections between different representations. Student thinking and mathematical learning practices clearly play a fundamental role in this vision.