1. Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.
2. Reason abstractly and quantitatively.
3. Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.
4. Model with mathematics.
5. Use appropriate tools strategically.
6. Attend to precision.
7. Look for and make use of structure.
8. Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.

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Explore this site to learn more about the Common Core Standards for Mathematical Practice (SMP) and how they can be connected to the content standards. Use our Illustrations, centered on student dialogues, to see the Standards for Mathematical Practice in action.

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About Illustrations

Each Illustration of the Standards for Mathematical Practice (SMP) consists of a mathematics task; a student dialogue based on that task; information about grade level, standards, and the context for the dialogue; teacher reflection questions; a mathematical overview; and optional student materials. While the primary use of Illustrations is for teacher learning about the SMP, some components are designed for classroom use with students. Go to “Browse Illustrations” to find Illustrations for particular SMP.

About the Project

Implementing the Mathematical Practice Standards is an EDC project funded by the National Science Foundation to develop Illustrations of the Mathematical Practices and a professional development curriculum for teachers in grades 5–10.

About Our PD Curriculum

Interpreting the Standards for Mathematical Practice is a 20-hour professional development course for teachers of grades 5–10 mathematics, designed to increase awareness and understanding of the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSM) and, in particular, the Standards for Mathematical Practice (SMP). The course been tested in an iterative process that has included the feedback of over 400 facilitators and teachers. The course guide for facilitators and a handbook for teachers participating in the course will be published by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics in the fall of 2017.

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