There is a much talked about book being circulated amongst mathematics educators that is worth talking about! Principles to Actions: Ensuring Mathematical Success for All, published by National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) in 2014 officially promotes an equitable and meaningful mathematics education for all students. The book’s unrelenting cry for equity and access for K-12 students can not be ignored. Therefore, as math educators, we are called to create a “systemic excellence” rather than “pockets of excellence” for our students. The writing team for Principles to Actions is well known for their desire for all students to have access to engaging mathematics instruction that focuses on students' sense-making, conceptual understanding and productive disposition. The desire to create a “systemic excellence” rather than “pockets of excellence” is the call for Washington State Math Educators!
The book is divided into two major sections: Effective Teaching and Learning, which includes the Mathematics Teaching Practices and Essential Elements which addresses Access and Equity, Curriculum, Tools and Technology, Assessment and Professionalism. I am on my third read of the book and continue to find it a both a call to action to provide students with meaningful instruction and mathematical experiences AND a source of inspiration to grow as a learner myself.
Put this at the top of your mathematical reading list this year; you will not be disappointed. If you wish to share your learning with your peers, there is a Principles to Actions toolbox on NCTM to help guide a book study.
The NCTM Principles to Actions Toolkit also provides grade band activities to explore teaching practices. Many of the samples have multiple resources to support your work. You can view them here.
