Academic achievement is increasing in schools, but so is the dropout rate. Excellence in schools must be defined more broadly than the scores students earn on achievement tests. Concerns such as equity must be a part of the definition of excellence in education. It is essential that for some programs with disproportionate enrollments, educators…

This issue of Mathematics Education Dialogues focuses on the nature and the role of algebra in the K-14 curriculum. Articles on this theme include: (1) "Algebra For All? Why?" (Nel Noddings); (2) "Algebra For All: It's a Matter of Equity, Expectations, and Effectiveness" (Dorothy S. Strong and Nell B. Cobb); (3) "Don't Delay: Build and Talk about…

Explains how teachers can identify and correct sexist classroom practices. Teachers strive for fairness, but even those deeply concerned about gender equality tend to interact differently with boys and girls, with profound effects on children's self-esteem, academic interests, and ability to become independent, assertive thinkers. (SM)

Presents a brief history on the evolution of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' (NCTM) standards and reform efforts in mathematics education. Discusses the advantages of having standards. Mentions some research results stating dramatic increases in reading and mathematics achievement for schools with the highest implementation of…

Provides a rationale for including biography projects that represent diverse contributors to science and mathematics. Describes a biography-project assignment used in a methods course for secondary teacher preparation, discusses preservice teachers' comments about the assignment, and makes connections to current research on equitable instruction.…

Notes the continued lack of success and participation by minority students and white females in science. Discusses creating equitable contexts for learning. Looks at teacher training, gender and ethnicity, and experience working with diverse populations as factors in teacher effectiveness. Argues that debates are needed regarding incorporating…

The module described in this document is part of a series of instructional modules on sex-role stereotyping in education. This document (including all but the cassette tape) is the module that explores how sex-role stereotyping influences the referral process, testing procedures, classroom materials, and other procedures providing help for…

The module described in this document is part of a series of instructional modules on sex-role stereotyping in education. This document (including all but the cassette tape) is the module that, focusing on how sex stereotyping affects curriculum development and content, examines sex bias in language, classroom behavior, and instructional…

Describes a multicultural enrichment project for 4th graders that highlights number systems and computation algorithms of various cultures. Discusses student responses and reactions. (KHR)

Describes the Sisters in Sport Science (SISS) program which provides equitable access for girls to science and mathematics through sports. Includes a sample SISS activity that integrates track and physical sciences. (YDS)

Suggests some helpful trade books and activities to nurture creativity and inventiveness. (KHR)

Discusses the QUASAR Project, which has worked with middle school teachers in disadvantaged communities in order to help increase the relevance of mathematics by making connections between the mathematics taught in school and the lives of students. (16 references) (MKR)

This curriculum guide helps teachers explore themes presented in a companion videotape, "Throw Like a Girl." Curriculum objectives, instructional strategies, and assessments align with the video's four-part structure. The video presents the story of what it has been like for females to play sports as told through the eyes of different…

A 3-year high school program based on functional mathematics (FM) benefits all students, regardless of career goals, by providing a strong background for students entering the workforce and for those moving directly into postsecondary education. A high school curriculum that helps all students master FM would effectively address issues of both…

Discusses gender bias created by media favoring males in science, mathematics, and technology and how female academic achievement and attitudes are effected negatively. Introduces an inquiry-based activity using media clippings in which students analyze the images in mass media and discuss their ideas on those images. (YDS)