Connected Mathematics Project 3

by Savvas Learning Company (f/k/a Pearson)

MathGrades 6–8

About This Curriculum

An inquiry-based mathematics program for grades 6-8 that helps students develop mathematical knowledge, conceptual understanding, and procedural skills through problem-centered learning and the Launch-Explore-Summarize instructional model.

What makes it unique: Most comprehensive research base of any middle school mathematics program; developed by Connected Mathematics Project at Michigan State University with over twenty years of field experience.

Connected Mathematics Project 3: Inquiry-Based Middle School Program

Connected Mathematics Project 3 is an inquiry-based math curriculum for grades 6-8 that emphasizes problem-centered learning through the Launch-Explore-Summarize instructional model. The program aims to develop mathematical understanding through student exploration and discussion rather than direct instruction.

Best for

Teachers comfortable with inquiry-based instruction who want to emphasize mathematical reasoning and problem-solving in grades 6-8, though may need supplementation for procedural fluency

Evaluation Criteria

1 strength · 3 concerns · 3 neutral · 2 insufficient evidence

Word ProblemsStrength

The problem-centered learning approach likely provides extensive exposure to word problems and applications. This aligns with the curriculum's emphasis on mathematical practices and real-world contexts.

Problem-centered learning model and Gateway 2 'Meets Expectations' rating for application suggest strong focus on word problem solving

Worked ExamplesConcern

The inquiry-based, problem-centered approach likely provides limited worked examples. Students explore problems before receiving explicit instruction, which may increase cognitive load for struggling learners.

Launch-Explore-Summarize model has students explore problems before teacher guidance, contrary to worked example principles

Direct InstructionConcern

The inquiry-based approach with Launch-Explore-Summarize model minimizes direct instruction. Students explore concepts before receiving explicit teaching, which contradicts research on effective math instruction.

Problem-centered learning and inquiry-based pedagogy described in curriculum materials emphasizes student exploration over teacher-led instruction

Sequencing ApproachConcern

The curriculum does not meet expectations for focus and coherence in grade-level standards alignment. This suggests potential issues with topic sequencing and depth of coverage.

EdReports Gateway 1 rating of 'Does Not Meet Expectations' for Focus & Coherence indicates problems with alignment to grade-level standards and focus on major work

Teacher TrainingNeutral

Teacher supports partially meet expectations according to EdReports. This suggests some professional development materials are included but may be inadequate for effective implementation.

EdReports Gateway 3 'Partially Meets Expectations' rating includes teacher supports as a component of usability

Assessment DiagnosticNeutral

Assessment components partially meet expectations according to EdReports. The curriculum likely includes some diagnostic tools but may lack comprehensive formative assessment systems.

EdReports Gateway 3 'Partially Meets Expectations' rating includes assessment as a component of usability

Conceptual Procedural BalanceNeutral

The curriculum meets expectations for balancing conceptual understanding, procedural skills, and application according to EdReports. However, the inquiry-based approach may prioritize conceptual development over procedural fluency.

EdReports Gateway 2 (Rigor & Mathematical Practices) rating of 'Meets Expectations' indicates appropriate balance across all three components of rigor

Retrieval PracticeInsufficient Evidence

Insufficient evidence to assess whether the curriculum incorporates systematic retrieval practice and spaced review.

EdReports evaluation does not specifically address cumulative review or retrieval practice components

Visual RepresentationsInsufficient Evidence

Insufficient evidence to determine the curriculum's use of visual models and manipulatives.

EdReports summary does not specifically address visual representations or concrete-representational-abstract progression

Sources: edreports.org

Review Sources

edreports

EdReports Panel

Gateway 1 Alignment:Does Not Meet Expectations
Gateway 2 Alignment:Meets Expectations
Gateway 3 Alignment:Partially Meets Expectations
Key Facts
GradesGrades 6–8
SubjectMath
PedagogyInquiry Based
Faith-BasedNo
FormatDigital + Physical

Looking for something different?

If none of these options feel right, explore a non-traditional approach. Pallas Center offers a unique curriculum, or design your own with Palladay.

Data sources: edreports