National Math Panel: Major Topics of School Algebra

Includes these recommended practices
Link to The National Mathematics Advisory Panel (NMP) Final Report and Reports of the Task Groups and Subcommittees The National Mathematics Advisory Panel (NMP) Final Report and Reports of the Task Groups and Subcommittees The National Mathematics Advisory Panel conducted a systematic and rigorous review of the best available scientific evidence for the teaching and learning of mathematics and provided recommendations that lay out concrete steps to improve mathematics education, with a specific focus on preparation for learning algebra. The Panel worked in task groups and subcommittees to address areas of mathematics teaching and learning including Conceptual Knowledge and Skills, Learning Processes, Instructional Practices, Teachers and Teacher Education, and Assessment. Five task groups carried out detailed syntheses of research evidence that addressed each group's major questions and met standards of methodological quality. Three subcommittees were charged with completion of a particular advisory function for the Panel. The research findings cited in these reports underpin the mathematics practices and content included on the Doing What Works website.
Link to National Mathematics Advisory Panel Multimedia Overview

Multimedia Overview National Mathematics Advisory Panel

Watch this brief overview to learn about the purpose and findings of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel and research-based recommendations for improving mathematics instruction. Find out why it's important for schools to focus on teaching critical mathematics skills to better prepare students for entry into algebra. (3:41 min)

Explore these recommended practices:

  • <<Topics of Algebra
    Teach the comprehensive set of major topics in algebra recommended by the National Mathematics Advisory Panel.
  • <<Multiple Paths
    Expect that all students will learn school algebra through a coherent progression of topics.