Abstract

Determining the effectiveness of core mathematics curricula is foundational to evidence-based practice. Examining effectiveness heterogeneity is also crucial to better understanding mathematics achievement among English language learners (ELLs). In this study, we used a quasi-experimental design (difference-in-differences) to examine the impact of a standards-based elementary mathematics curriculum (Bridges in Mathematics) on fifth graders’ annual gains in mathematics achievement in a large midwestern school district compared to the district’s prior curriculum (Investigations). We also investigated whether the effect of Bridges varied across English language proficiency (ELP) levels of ELLs. Students in schools that implemented Bridges (n = 1,839) showed significantly greater mathematics gains compared to those receiving the prior curriculum (n = 3,354; g = 0.25 in change score standard deviations). This effect did not vary significantly across ELP levels. Limitations of this study as well as implications for research and practice with core curricula are discussed.

Impact Statement

We used a quasi-experimental design to investigate the effect of the Bridges in Mathematics curriculum on student mathematics achievement gains in fifth grade in a large, urban school district. Students who received the curriculum grew measurably more on mathematics scores from the fall to spring of fifth grade than students who received the previous curriculum. English language learners with heterogenous English language proficiency levels and English-proficient peers benefited similarly from the curriculum.

摘要

确定核心数学课程的有效性是循证实践的基础。检查有效性异质性对于更好地了解英语学习者 (ELL) 的数学成就也至关重要。在这项研究中，我们使用准实验设计（差异中的差异）来检查基于标准的小学数学课程（数学中的桥梁）对中西部一所大型学校五年级学生数学成绩年度收益的影响学区与学区以前的课程（调查）相比。我们还调查了Bridges的影响是否因ELL 的英语语言能力 (ELP) 水平而异。实施学校的学生Bridges ( n  = 1,839) 的数学成绩显着高于接受先前课程的人 ( n  = 3,354；g  = 0.25 的变化分数标准差)。这种影响在 ELP 水平上没有显着差异。讨论了这项研究的局限性以及对核心课程研究和实践的影响。

影响陈述

我们使用准实验设计来调查数学桥梁课程对大型城市学区五年级学生数学成绩提升的影响。从五年级秋季到春季，接受该课程的学生的数学成绩明显高于接受之前课程的学生。具有异质英语语言能力水平的英语学习者和英语熟练的同龄人同样从课程中受益。