Math in Focus

Program Description

Math in Focus is an adaptation of an approach used in Singapore called My Pals Are Here! Maths (MPHM). This approach uses a concrete-to-pictorial-to-abstract progression for each skill, in carefully scaffolded lessons. A distinctive feature of Math in Focus is the amount of professional development teachers receive. Trainings focus on lesson planning, modeling, responding to students’ progress, and adaptations to district and state standards.

Program Outcomes

Three qualifying studies evaluated Math in Focus. The overall average effect size was +0.18 on standardized measures. These results qualified Math in Focus for the ESSA “Strong” category.

Professional Development/Training

1.5 to 3 hours of training in the summer, followed by four whole-day trainings through the year.