An Exploratory Study on Advanced Math Curriculum Effects in Early Education

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 8:00 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Studies Focused on Supporting Multilingual Mathematics Learners (Table 6)

Abstract

This exploratory study investigates the impact of an advanced math curriculum on the development of mathematical knowledge in high-potential English learners (ELs) from Kindergarten to Grade 2. Using a comparative case study design, the research examines the differences in learning outcomes between students taught with the advanced M2 curriculum and those following the district-adopted curriculum. Data were collected through audio transcripts, teaching artifacts, field notes, and pre- and post-tests. Findings indicate that students in the intervention group, exposed to high-cognitive demand tasks and language scaffolding strategies, demonstrated significant gains in geometric understanding and visual-spatial reasoning. The study underscores the importance of advanced, well-designed curricula in fostering mathematical talent among young ELs.

Authors

• Jenny Yang, St. John's University

• Seokhee Cho, St. John's University