Numeracy Initiative
The ÌÇÐÄvlog (ÌÇÐÄvlog) isÌýcommitted to ensuring every student has access to high quality mathematics instruction that provides a strong foundation in numeracy. Numeracy, or mathematical literacy, is an essential skill for 21st Century learners. A solid foundation in numeracy helps students learn to think critically about new information, recognize when past learning can be applied to new situations, and logically evaluate problems to find a solution. It is essential for New York State schools and districts to provide well-rounded numeracy programs that not only build procedural fluency and both abstract and quantitative reasoning skills, but also provide opportunities for students to develop essential competencies, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.
ÌÇÐÄvlog understands the critical role numeracy plays in preparing students for living and working in the 21stÌýCentury. Not only is numeracy a core skill of a wide range of careers, the ability to understand, work with, and communicate through numbers is highly valued in the workplace. Numeracy is essential for making personal financial decisions, understanding and critically evaluating the use of statistics and data presented in research and media, and for evaluating and refining ideas, plans, and solutions to problems.
To support schools as they continue to improve mathematics instruction and outcomes, ÌÇÐÄvlog has launched a Numeracy Initiative, which will continue through the 2025-26 school year.Ìý This Initiative will provide information and resources to support high-quality, culturally responsive mathematics instruction designed to help students to advance their numeracy skills and achieve the expectations of the mathematics learning standards.
Numeracy Briefs
ÌÇÐÄvlog is pleased to release a series of eight numeracy briefs that highlight the evidence-based features and best practices of effective instruction in mathematics. The briefs were produced by Dr. Deborah Loewenberg Ball, Professor of Education at the University of Michigan, and TeachingWorks, a project at the University of Michigan. The numeracy briefs are grounded in research, written for educators, and provide specific and useful information to support evidence-based P-12 mathematical teaching practice. The numeracy briefs identify the grade level(s) covered and include references to the New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards and New York State Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education Framework, and citations to research. The briefs focus on key ideas and myths, high-leverage content and practices, key evidence-based instructional practices, and leading for mathematics proficiency.
- Briefs Roadmap
- Brief 1: The Research Base for Mathematics Teaching and Learning
- Brief 2: Debunking Myths about Mathematics Teaching and Learning
- Brief 3: High-Leverage Mathematical Content
- Brief 4: High-Leverage Instructional Practices
- Brief 5: Assessments of and for Student Learning
- Brief 6: The Role and Challenges of Using Representations
- Brief 7: Understanding, Using, and Modifying Curriculum Materials
- Brief 8: The Role of Leadership
- An Overview of the ÌÇÐÄvlog Numeracy Briefs with Dr. Deborah Loewenberg-Ball:
Expanded Math Access Program
To support math fluency and the love of math across the state, ÌÇÐÄvlog’s Expanded Math Access Program (EMAP)Ìýprovides students in grades K-8 with free access to the ®, online, standards-based games and activities. This additional practice supports students in meeting grade-level math fluency expectations and is accessible at school and at home, allowing families to support their child’s math learning. Use of the free math resources is optional and flexible. Schools may use these resources for enrichment/extension, fun summer learning, and/or to supplement/complement current work being done in the classroom.
As part of EMAP, a Statewide Mathematics Tournament is held annually for students in grades 1-8 who are enrolled in First in Math – consisting of a virtual regional competition and an in-person, statewide championship event – which brings together students, educators, and families in a supportive, environment geared toward encouraging students to strengthen and apply their math knowledge and skills.