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Mathematics

Learning Experience

At KIPP, we’re ALL math people! In our math classrooms, students are affirmed and joyful; have mastery of the math they learn; and feel safe taking risks and learning from their mistakes. KIPP Baltimore students build their identities as mathematicians because we prioritize their voices, culture, and thinking. They cultivate deep understanding and ownership of how the math they are learning works and how to use it.

Our Approach

Vision for Math Instruction at KIPP Baltimore

At KIPP, teachers identify the strengths, knowledge, and skills that their students bring to the classroom–and plan for instruction that acknowledges and amplifies these strengths. Teachers explicitly create math learning environments where students can display:

  • Ownership of Learning – Students can explain what they are learning and why the topic is important. They have academic goals and understand how much progress they are making toward these goals.
  • Safety & Respect  – Students feel comfortable trying new types of problems and celebrating each other’s success. KIPPsters know that we grow our brains when we learn new, challenging things.
  • Engagement – Students are excited to come to math class because they see how math will help them to make sense of and explore the world around them.
  • Discourse – Students talk about the math they are learning with one another. They understand the importance of their unique perspective and ideas as contributions to what they are learning. Each lesson prioritizes opportunities for students to share their ideas and their work with the class.
  • Perseverance – Students push themselves to try their best. They can identify when they are confused or unclear–and ask for help. KIPPsters apply different strategies to solve hard problems.

Illustrative Mathematics

Traditionally, math has been taught in a teacher-centric way: students listen to a lesson, watch the teacher solve sample problems, and then practice solving similar problems independently. At KIPP, using the Illustrative Mathematics curriculum, students start the lesson by exploring a task or mathematical phenomenon. Then, they reflect on and share their experience through discussion with their peers. Finally, they synthesize what they have learned together as a class.

Traditional Approach

KIPP’s Approach

Our Core Beliefs

  • Students learn by doing math. The tasks we put in front of our kids now reflect what we believe and hope is possible for their futures. Mathematical ideas are the outcomes of the problem-solving experience rather than the elements that must be taught before problem solving.
  • Students are supported. The curriculum is designed to have clear, coherent progression and relies on High-Quality Instructional Materials. This, combined with supportive and prepared teacher facilitation, creates safe and effective spaces for students to explore, experiment, and take risks.
  • All students are capable mathematicians. Lessons are designed and conveyed in such a way that all students know they can be successful in math class. They are also empowered to think and act as a mathematician outside of the classroom.

ALL STUDENTS ARE MATH CAPABLE. As educators, we have the responsibility of creating equitable math learning opportunities for students that are both rigorous and accessible. We know now, more than ever since the pandemic, that excellent math instruction in school is fundamental for student success. KIPP is taking the critical steps to provide equitable math instruction for all students.

– Dr. Joshua Michael, Executive Director, Sherman Family Foundation

Please select from the following academic approaches to learn more:

Literacy
Mathematics
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