Chapter 15: Key Features of Connected Mathematics for Professional Development

Connected Mathematics (CMP) (Lappan, Fey, Fitzgerald, Friel, & Phillips, 1998, 2002, 2004, 2006) materials reflect this stance that teaching and learning are not distinct—“what to teach” and how “to teach it” are inextricably linked. The circumstances in which students learn affect what is learned. Thus the needs of both students and teachers are considered in the development of CMP. This curriculum is designed to help teachers, and those who work to support teachers, examine their expectations for students and analyze the extent to which classroom mathematics tasks and teaching practices align with their goals and expectations. The interactions between student and teacher materials comprise the first level of professional development for teachers. We view the teacher materials as a conversation with teachers about possible ways to engage students in thinking and reasoning mathematically. The teacher materials are not a script, but are meant to peak teachers’ interest and push their thinking about their instruction.