The Teacher's Role

Much of the success of CMP lies in the hands of the teacher. Therefore, it is important to gain teacher buy-in and success. A problem-centered curriculum like CMP utilizes an inquiry-based instructional model. Such a model promotes a different form of classroom interaction than has historically been used within mathematics instruction. Teaching mathematics through a sequence of connected problems in an inquiry-based classroom is a major shift. It requires a change from the skills and procedures view of mathematics. Problem-based curriculum materials encourage students to explore, conjectures, validate, and communicate their understandings and procedures. To guide classroom discussions, teachers need a deep and broad view of mathematics as well as knowledge of a variety of pedagogical strategies. Teachers should be involved in the textbook selection process, have district support, and participate in on-going professional development. See Helping Teachers.