Rethinking the Standards for Mathematical Practice

• In Event: Mathematics as a Cultural and Community Activity

Abstract

This position paper calls for an evolution of the Standards for Mathematical Practice (SMP). An evolution that we believe is needed to reflect the persistent need for meaningful mathematics education for those learners who have been marginalized and underserved.
Content standards, such as the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSS) focus on the what of mathematics, the content to be taught and learned. The SMP focus on the activity of doing mathematics, the how of mathematics.
We call for a reframing of the SMP to include consideration of the who of mathematics. Mathematics is a human activity, shaped by the lived experience and interests of people. We believe the SMP needed to be reframed to reflect this.

Authors

• Timothy L. Weekes, San Francisco State University

• Johnnie Wilson, University of California - Santa Cruz