Math Expressions, Grade 6

Name: Math Expressions, Grade 6
Brand: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

MathGrade 6

About This Curriculum

A research-based, NSF-funded mathematics curriculum for Grade 6 that emphasizes deep conceptual understanding through active engagement, collaborative exploration, and hands-on problem solving.

What makes it unique: Math-Talk community approach combined with five core structures (Math Talk, Building Concepts, Quick Practice, Helping Community, and Student Leaders) to develop understanding and fluency

Math Expressions Grade 6: Inquiry-Based NSF-Funded Curriculum

Math Expressions Grade 6 is a research-based math curriculum from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt that emphasizes deep conceptual understanding through inquiry-based learning, collaborative exploration, and hands-on problem solving. The curriculum received NSF funding and aims to develop mathematical thinking through active student engagement.

Best for

Teachers and schools seeking an inquiry-based math curriculum for grade 6 that emphasizes conceptual understanding and collaborative learning, particularly those with strong pedagogical content knowledge to supplement direct instruction as needed

Evaluation Criteria

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

Sequencing ApproachStrength

The curriculum demonstrates strong alignment to grade-level standards with appropriate focus on major mathematical work. The sequencing appears coherent based on standards alignment.

EdReports rated Gateway 1 (Focus & Coherence) as 'Meets Expectations'

Direct InstructionConcern

The inquiry-based pedagogical approach likely de-emphasizes direct, explicit instruction in favor of student discovery and exploration.

Curriculum is described as 'inquiry-based' emphasizing 'active engagement' and 'collaborative exploration' rather than teacher-led instruction

Conceptual Procedural BalanceConcern

The curriculum shows mixed results in balancing conceptual understanding with procedural fluency. EdReports found it only partially meets expectations for rigor and mathematical practices.

EdReports rated Gateway 2 (Rigor & Mathematical Practices) as 'Partially Meets Expectations' while Gateway 1 (Focus & Coherence) meets expectations

Word ProblemsNeutral

The focus on problem solving and real-world application suggests attention to word problems, though systematic instruction methods are unclear.

Curriculum emphasizes 'problem solving' and received partial rating for mathematical practices which includes application

Teacher TrainingNeutral

As a major Houghton Mifflin Harcourt curriculum with research backing, teacher support materials are likely available, though specific training components are not detailed.

Published by major educational publisher with research foundation, suggesting professional development resources

Visual RepresentationsNeutral

The emphasis on hands-on problem solving suggests visual and manipulative components are present. However, specific details about visual models and representations are not provided.

Curriculum description mentions 'hands-on problem solving' which implies use of concrete materials

Worked ExamplesInsufficient Evidence

Insufficient evidence available to assess the curriculum's use of worked examples and cognitive load reduction strategies.

No specific information provided about worked examples or step-by-step modeling approaches

Retrieval PracticeInsufficient Evidence

No evidence provided regarding retrieval practice, spaced review, or cumulative review components in the curriculum.

No information available about practice structures or review systems

Assessment DiagnosticInsufficient Evidence

No specific information provided about diagnostic assessments or formative evaluation tools within the curriculum.

No details available about assessment components or diagnostic features

Sources: edreports.org

Review Sources

edreports

EdReports Panel

Gateway 1 Alignment:Meets Expectations

Gateway 2 Alignment:Partially Meets Expectations

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Key Facts

GradesGrade 6

SubjectMath

PedagogyInquiry Based

Faith-BasedNo

FormatDigital + Physical

PricingApproximately $33-44 per student consumable workbook (varies by format and retail outlet); Educational institution pricing available through HMH

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