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SMMCA provides insightful feedback on Common Core vs. Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks, emphasizing concerns, gaps, and societal impacts, urging a cautious approach for effective math education.
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The Response from SMMCA Southeastern Massachusetts Mathematics Chairpersons Association
SMMCA • Founded in 1968 for math department heads • Currently has 41 members from 37 school districts in Southeastern Massachusetts • 16 member Standards Study Committee • Letter to the National Governors Association and Massachusetts Dept of Elementary and Secondary Education
General Comments for our BOE • Proceed slowly—Massachusetts has high standards • Let’s compare the Common Core with our revised Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks • The lack of assessment information is troubling • Schools can’t afford major changes
Specific Concerns • Numerous Core Standards • Risk of being a checklist • Making connections not emphasized • Connections to 21st century skills are needed
K-5 Standards • Emphasize Arithmetic in ways to promote understanding--not rote memorization but • Lack a strong statement about early algebraic skills (input-output tables, number theory)
Are these better? • Will they close the achievement gap? • Will they decrease the need for remediation in colleges? • Where are Response to Intervention guidelines?
STEM Labels • STEM standards are really “calculus intending” and not necessarily just for STEM careers • STEM could discourage some students who intend to pursue non-STEM careers