An Investigation Into Traits That Characterize High Quality Mathematics Teachers and Instruction

An investigation into traits that characterize high quality mathematics teachers and instruction

Ali S. Webb, Kelly D. Bradley, and Shannon O. Sampson

University of Kentucky Math Quality 2

Abstract

According to the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 and “The Facts About Math Achievement”

(July, 2002), achievement in mathematics among America’s youth is imperative, yet children are

not excelling in math at the same rate as in subjects such as reading. A study conducted by the

National Assessment of Education Progress showed that while an achievement in math is slowly

improving, “only a quarter of fourth- and eighth-graders are performing at or above proficient

levels in math, and twelfth-grade math scores have not improved since 1996,”(NAEP, 2000).

This review of literature reveals suggestions for multiple approaches to improving the quality of

mathematics instruction and to better preparing pre-service mathematics teachers. This

information will aid in the modification of curriculum and instruction and the development of

teaching techniques to improve mathematics achievement among our nation’s children. Math Quality 3

An investigation into traits that characterize high quality mathematics teachers and instruction

According to the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001, achievement in

mathematics among America’s children is imperative, yet children are not excelling in math at

the same rate as in subjects such as reading. Annually, the National Assessment of Educational

Progress (NAEP) investigates the trends of achievement in all subject areas among children in

grades four, eight, and twelve. A study conducted by NAEP in 2000 showed that while

achievement in math is slowly improving, “only a quarter of fourth- and eighth-graders are

performing at or above proficient levels in math and twelfth-grade math scores have not

improved since 1996,” (NAEP, 2000). Beginning this year, it is required that the progress of...