My Work with the Algebra Project

In 2005, I accepted an invitation to join the core curriculum development team of the Algebra Project, which is led by Robert Moses. My work with the Algebra Project has been supported by Cornell (Associate Provost, Dean, Department) and the National Science Foundation. I am working with teachers, educators, and other mathematicians to produce materials for a high school geometry curriculum. The goal of the Algebra Project is work with underserved students to "raise the floor" so that all students learn the mathematics they need to enter college and not be required to take remedial courses.

Starting September 2008, the Algebra Project was awarded a 5-year $4 million "Discovery Research K-12" grant from the National Science Foundation for our "Cohort Project". I am one of the co-PIs on the grant and part of the team which is developing special experiencial-based high school curricular materials. In particular, I am leading the efforts on the geometry aspects of the curriculum.

The project title is "R&D: The Development of Student Cohorts for the Enhancement of Mathematical Literacy in Under Served Populations". For a copy of our project summary and project description, see Summary and Description. The "Cohorts Project" serves students who are performing in the bottom quartile on state and national tests.  Most do not finish high school and end up diverted into an underground economy, in gangs, and in prisons.  Students participating in this project form a cohort that stays together for all 4 years of high school.  The students in the cohorts study mathematics every day, use curriculum materials designed by the Algebra Project, and are supported by local community groups.

11 Units for the Algebra Project Geometry Curriculum, published online http://www.algebra.org/curriculum, 2011-2012.