Core-Plus Mathematics

Name: Core-Plus Mathematics
Brand: McGraw-Hill Education

by McGraw-Hill Education

MathGrades 9–12

About This Curriculum

A four-year integrated mathematics curriculum that replaces the traditional sequence with courses featuring interwoven strands of algebra and functions, statistics and probability, geometry and trigonometry, and discrete mathematics.

What makes it unique: Problem-based, inquiry-oriented approach emphasizing mathematical modeling, collaborative learning, and real-world contexts; originally funded by the National Science Foundation; recognized for meeting Common Core State Standards.

Core-Plus Mathematics: Integrated Four-Year High School Program

Core-Plus Mathematics is a four-year integrated high school math curriculum that weaves together algebra, geometry, statistics, and discrete mathematics rather than teaching them as separate courses. The program emphasizes inquiry-based learning and mathematical modeling across interconnected strands of content.

Best for

High schools seeking an integrated approach to mathematics that emphasizes inquiry-based learning and mathematical connections across traditional subject boundaries

Evaluation Criteria

4 strengths · 1 concern · 1 neutral · 3 insufficient evidence

Word ProblemsStrength

The curriculum meets expectations for application according to EdReports evaluation.

EdReports Gateway 2 confirms the program meets expectations for application, which includes real-world problem-solving contexts

Teacher TrainingStrength

The curriculum meets expectations for teacher supports according to comprehensive EdReports evaluation.

EdReports Gateway 3 evaluation confirms the program meets expectations for 'teacher supports, assessment, differentiation, technology integration'

Assessment DiagnosticStrength

The curriculum includes assessment components that meet EdReports standards for usability.

EdReports Gateway 3 evaluation indicates the program meets expectations for assessment as part of overall usability standards

Conceptual Procedural BalanceStrength

The curriculum meets expectations for balancing conceptual understanding with procedural skills according to EdReports' rigorous evaluation.

EdReports Gateway 2 evaluation confirms the program meets expectations for 'balance of conceptual understanding, procedural skill, and application'

Direct InstructionConcern

The curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning rather than direct instruction approaches.

Program description identifies 'inquiry_based' as the primary pedagogical approach, which typically de-emphasizes teacher-led explicit instruction

Sequencing ApproachNeutral

Uses an integrated spiral approach that weaves mathematical strands together rather than teaching them in isolation.

Description indicates 'interwoven strands of algebra and functions, statistics and probability, geometry and trigonometry, and discrete mathematics' replace traditional sequential courses

Worked ExamplesInsufficient Evidence

Insufficient evidence available to assess the curriculum's use of worked examples and modeling.

Neither EdReports summary nor available reviews provide specific information about worked examples or step-by-step modeling

Retrieval PracticeInsufficient Evidence

Insufficient evidence to determine whether the curriculum incorporates systematic retrieval practice or spaced review.

Available reviews do not mention cumulative review, retrieval practice, or spaced repetition features

Visual RepresentationsInsufficient Evidence

Insufficient evidence available to evaluate the program's use of visual models and manipulatives.

Reviews do not provide specific details about visual representations, manipulatives, or concrete-to-abstract progressions

Sources: edreports.org, cathyduffyreviews.com