P21 Math Map PDF

21st Century Skills Map
DESIGNED IN COOPERATION W I T H T H E N AT I O N ' S M AT H E D U C ATO R S
The Partnership for 21st Century Skills The Partnership advocates for the integration of 21st Century Skills into K-12
(P21) has forged alliances with key
national organizations representing
education so that students can advance their learning in core academic subjects.
the core academic subjects, including
Social Studies, English, Math, Science, Developed through a year-long collaborative process, this map reflects the collective effort of Mathematics professors,
Geography, World Languages and the teachers and thought leaders, and illustrates the integration of Mathematics and 21st Century Skills. It will provide educators,
Arts. These collaborations have resulted administrators and policymakers with concrete examples of how 21st Century Skills can be integrated into core subjects, and
in the development of 21st Century
how other subject areas can link successfully with mathematics.
Skills Maps that illustrate the essential
intersection between core subjects and
21st Century Skills.
A 21st Century
Skills
B Skill Definition
C Interdisciplinary Theme
D Sample Student
Outcome/Examples
An example from the Math Skills
Map illustrates sample outcomes
for teaching Communication and
Collaboration.
> Go to Contents Page One Massachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 700 Washington, DC 20001 202-312-6429 www.P21.org Publication date: 01/11 1
Introduction
Employers and educators agree that Learning and Innovation Skills
changes in the global economy require
Learning and innovation skills are increasingly recognized as those that distinguish students who are prepared for more complex
that students entering college and the
life and work environments in the 21st century from those who are not. A focus on the 4Cs of Creativity, Critical thinking,
workforce leave the K-12 education
Communication and Collaboration is essential to prepare students for the future.
system with an advanced level of
proficiency in mathematics and a Creativity and Innovation: Students use a wide range of techniques to create new and worthwhile ideas, elaborate,
mastery of key mathematics concepts. refine, analyze and evaluate their own ideas in order to improve and maximize creative efforts, and demonstrate originality and
inventiveness, in both an individual as well as group settings.
P21 believes that one of the most important ways
to enable students to achieve this mastery is to fuse Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Students reason effectively, use systems thinking and understand how parts of
mathematical content and mathematical practices with a whole interact with each other. They make judgments, decisions and solve problems in both conventional and innovative ways.
the 21st Century Skills outlined in P21s Framework for
21st Century Learning. Communication and Collaboration: Students know how to articulate thoughts and ideas effectively using oral, written
and nonverbal communication. They listen effectively to decipher meaning, such as knowledge, values, attitudes and intentions, and
Fusing a core subject like mathematics with 21st Century
use communication for a wide range of purposes in diverse teams and environments.
Skills makes teaching and learning more engaging,
more relevant and more rigorous, ensuring that a
greater number of students have an advanced level of
understanding and ability in mathematics.
P21 COMMON CORE TOOLKIT
The working group that developed learning outcomes and
instructional examples for this project identified learning P21 has created the Common Core Toolkit to align the P21 Framework with the
expectations for grades 4, 8 and 12. These outcomes and Common Core State Standards (CCSS), a state led initiative to establish college
examples are organized and grouped according to the and career standards in Mathematics and English Language Arts. The CCSS
P21 Framework for 21st Century Learning and explained support the integration of 21st Century Skills as part of mathematics pedagogy and can offer creative ways to deepen
in greater detail in this section. student content knowledge and support individualized learning. Where appropriate, this document highlights connections
between these examples and the CCSS. For more information on the 21st Century Skills and the Common Core, please
visit http://www.p21.org/tools-and-resources/publications/p21-common-core-toolkit.
Introduction (continued)
Information, Media and Technology Skills Life & Career Skills
In the 21st century, we live in a technology and media-suffused environment, Todays life and work environments require far more than thinking skills and content knowledge alone.
marked by: 1) access to an abundance of information, 2) rapid changes The ability to navigate the complex life and work environments in the globally competitive information age
in technology tools, and 3) the ability to collaborate and make individual requires students to pay rigorous attention to developing the following life and career skills.
contributions on an unprecedented scale. To be effective in the 21st century,
citizens and workers must be able to exhibit a range of functional and critical Flexibility and Adaptability: Expertise in adapting to change in varied roles, jobs responsibilities,
thinking skills related to information, media and technology. schedules and contexts and work effectively in a climate of ambiguity and changing priorities, exhibiting
flexibility when negotiating and balancing diverse views and beliefs to reach workable solutions.
Information Literacy: Students are able to access and evaluate information
effectively and use and manage that information purposefully for the issue or Initiative and Self-Direction: The capability to set and manage goals and time, and work
problem at hand. They exhibit awareness and application of knowledge on the independently. The capacity to be a self-directed learner going beyond basic mastery of skills and/or
ethical/legal issues surrounding the use of information. curriculum to explore and expand ones own learning and opportunities.
Media Literacy: Understanding how, why, and for what purposes, media Social and Cross-Cultural Skills: Interacting effectively with others in a respectable, professional
messages are constructed, and how individuals interpret messages differently. manner, and leveraging social and cultural differences to create new ideas and increase innovation and work
Students create media utilizing the most appropriate media creation tools, quality.
characteristics and conventions in diverse, multi-cultural environments.
Productivity and Accountability: The ability to set and meet goals, in the face of obstacles and
Information, Communications, and Technology Literacy: competing pressures, to achieve intended result. Demonstrate additional attributes of high quality work,
Students use digital technologies to manage, integrate, evaluate and create including collaborating and cooperating effectively and respectfully with diverse teams, multi-tasking, and
information, and to apply technology effectively, using it as a tool to research, being accountable for results.
organize, evaluate and communicate.
Leadership: Utilizing ones own influence and problem-solving skills to work with others towards
a shared goal, inspiring others and leveraging their strengths, while demonstrating integrity and ethical
behavior.
The value of math education can be found not only in its ability to help contribute to students college and career readiness, it can also help develop
individuals as thought leaders who can understand the world better because of their mathematics capabilities. Mathematics is a common language that
can help students unlock complex problems and a lens of understanding by which to make applied and important connections to other fields, professions
and disciplines. This project has been developed in order to give educational leaders in and out of the classroom additional tools to help more students
recognize this common language so that all students develop skills to lead in the 21st century.
P21 thanks the Mathematical Association of America and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics for their assistance in developing this Map.
> Go to Contents Page

Interdisciplinary Themes
Mathematics as a discipline offers its own Global Awareness. Mathematics provides opportunities and experiences for students to understand
unique set of knowledge, skills, and processes. global issues; to work collaboratively with individuals representing diverse cultures, religions and lifestyles in
It also offers the opportunity through an exploration of key a spirit of mutual respect; and to understand other nations and cultures, including those that shape
math concepts to provide links from school-based learning to their thoughts in other languages. The awareness and empathy that comes from solving globally
interdisciplinary themes that are essential to every students relevant math problems can enhance the ability of students to deepen their content knowledge
ability to thrive as a global citizen. Math offers students a lens and global mindfulness simultaneously.
through which to distinctively view the world, and empowers
students with tools for meaningful participation in our
Financial, Economic, Business and Entrepreneurial Literacy. Students must
democracy and economy. Students are able to discover ways
know how to make appropriate personal economic choices as responsible citizens, both at school
to solve old problems and develop new ways of thinking about
and at home. These choices require certain mastery skills that will remain pertinent for students as
the world around them a skill that is essential to tackling the
they enter college, pursue careers that require extensive financial, economic and mathematics expertise, and
biggest challenges in our interconnected, global world.
manage every-day financial responsibilities.
Civic Literacy. Study in the field of mathematics provides a context for exploring the rights and
obligations of citizenship at the local, state, national and international level, as well as the implications of
ethical and civic decisions. Mathematics provide an opportunity for students to become aware of the interplay
between governing laws, mathematics problems, and public policy challenges locally, nationally and globally.
Health Literacy. Use of math to calculate nutritional content and assess physical and mental
practices can help students develop new tools for monitoring and improving their overall health, as
well as understanding habits of healthy behavior.
Environmental Literacy. Students with mathematics skills can become stewards of the
Earth when they utilize methods of measuring their impact on the planet and hone their ability to improve
environmental conditions. Students may explore environmental issues through math simulations that explore
environmental challenges locally, nationally and globally.
Outcomes for P21 Math Skills Map
Creativity and Innovation c. Students work efficiently and respectfully in diverse teams, Flexibility and Adaptability
articulating mathematical thoughts and ideas effectively.
a. Students compare different ways of approaching traditional a. Students work in pairs and small groups to address
They use oral, written and nonverbal communication skills,
mathematical problems and find innovative solutions, using mathematical challenges that involve varied roles and
demonstrating how mathematics is used to model problems of
practical examples where appropriate. responsibilities, and require working effectively in a climate of
broad interest to society.
b. Students listen to and evaluate others reasoning and offer ambiguity and changing priorities.
improvements and corrections, with supporting arguments.
Information Literacy
They listen to others feedback and modify their own Initiative and Self-Direction
arguments as needed. They learn from mistakes, and make a. Students identify sources of data, access data, critically evaluate
a. Students monitor, define, prioritize, and complete tasks
repeated attempts at solving problems. it, and then use it to explore significant questions about our
independently while balancing tactical and strategic goals to
c. Students look for patterns that suggest creative shortcuts or world.
solve mathematical problems.
simplifying frames of reference. They make generalizations from b. Students explore new areas of mathematics and its
b. Students reflect critically on past experiences solving
patterns they observe in repeated calculations. applications, and share what they have learned with others.
mathematical problems and connections among mathematical
d. By discovering fresh insights and communicating them to c. Students learn about mathematics from reliable websites and representations in order to inform future problem solving
others, students come to understand that mathematics is a share their knowledge with others. endeavors.
creative endeavor that builds on previous knowledge.
Media Literacy Social and Cross-Cultural Skills
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving a. Students understand how statistics, probabilities, and media a. Students learn about the use of mathematics in other cultures.
a. Students look for a logical structure in addressing messages are constructed for social purposes and how They recognize the contributions to mathematics from a
mathematical challenges. They are able to make complex individuals interpret messages differently. They examine the variety of cultures and the practical needs that led to those
choices and construct viable arguments to defend their purposes of statistical messages, the tools, characteristics, and contributions.
choices. conventions used, and how media can influence beliefs and
b. Students apply tools of mathematics, such as statistical analysis,
b. Students identify and ask significant questions about behaviors.
to understanding cross-cultural problems and issues.
mathematics and engage in analyzing each others answers. b. Students gain a fundamental understanding of the legal and
c. Students make sense of applied mathematical problems ethical issues surrounding the access, use, and potential
Productivity and Accountability
through analysis and synthesis of evidence, and persevere in distortion of mathematical information, terms, and concepts.
solving problems. They recognize the common tendency to treat quantitative a. Students set goals, establish priorities and schedules, and meet
data as truth and to infer patterns where none exist. goals to complete a project.
d. Students analyze how parts of a whole interact with each
other in mathematical systems. c. Students present statistical information in ways that support a
particular view or help others understand the information. Leadership and Responsibility
Communication & Collaboration a. Students use interpersonal and problem-solving skills to
Information, Communications, and leverage strengths of peers and solve mathematical problems
a. Students articulate mathematical thoughts and ideas using
Technology (ICT) Literacy important to their community.
oral and written communication skills. Using abstract and
quantitative reasoning with attention to precision, they a. Students use tools such as graphing calculators, spreadsheets, b. Students consider the ethical implications of mathematically-
construct viable arguments and analyze others reasoning. computer graphing, computer algebra systems, GPS devices, based decisions.
b. Students listen effectively to the reasoning of peers. and online resources appropriately and strategically.
They rephrase another students explanation or engage b. Students use technology to communicate mathematical insights
in questioning in order to decipher a peers solution to a by constructing appropriate graphical representations of
mathematical problem. functions and of data.
INFORMATION, MEDIA & TECHNOLOGY LITERACY
Creativity and Innovation

Alignment with Common 4th Grade 8th Grade 12th Grade
Core State Standards:
As noted in the P21 Common
Core Toolkit, Creativity is not OUTCOME: Students compare different ways of approaching traditional mathematical problems and find innovative solutions, using practical examples
addressed explicitly in the where appropriate.
Mathematics Practice section of the
CCSS. Creativity is instead strongly
implied, especially with regard (but EXAMPLE: The teacher presents the class with EXAMPLE: Students are shown two different EXAMPLE: Students learn about Hot Potato,
not limited) to topics that involve the problem: Five friends are planning a pizza approaches to proving the Pythagorean theorem, a lottery game that was played in Wisconsin,
measurement and data, algebraic party. If each of them will eat 3 pizza slices and such as dissecting a square in different ways, which cost a dollar to play and had payoff
thinking, geometry, statistics each pizza is cut into 8 slices, how many pizzas dropping a perpendicular to the hypotenuse from probabilities as shown in the table below.
and probability, and modeling. will be needed for the party? the opposite vertex, or arguing using similar Students then experiment with different ways
In addition, the creativity and triangles. Students use the Internet to research to model the game. First they estimate how
innovation examples below provide Students work in small groups: other proofs of the theorem. Each student writes many people out of 10 win each payoff, how
students with opportunities to 1. One group looks at how many pieces of pizza a brief report comparing two different proofs and many out of 100, how many out of 1000, and
develop expertise in the following will be needed. They reason that 5 people presents it to the group. so on. Then they model the problem with a
CCSS mathematical practices: eating 3 slices each will require 5 x 3 = 15 probability distribution. They discover that a key
slices. The group then examines how many payoff value is missing from the probability table:
Make sense of problems and the expected payoff per game. Students then
pizzas will be needed to get 15 slices.
persevere in solving them calculate the missing payoff value and learn that
2. Another group approaches the problem by
Construct viable arguments and the expected payoff per game is about $0.55.
asking: If each person eats 3/8 of a pizza, what
critique the reasoning of others They evaluate the impact of this payoff value
fraction will 5 people eat?
from the point of view of the individual player as
Model with mathematics 3. A third group creates paper pizzas: Each well as the Wisconsin Lottery Commission.
student draws a large circle and draws 4 lines
Look for and make use of logical
through the center to create 8 equal-size
structure
wedges, or pizza slices. Students sort the Payoff Probability
wedges into piles of 3. They see that 5 piles 1 1/9
of 3 wedges each provide a total of 15 pizza 2 1/13
slices. Since each slice is 1/8 of a pizza, they
3 1/43
reason that 15 slices is 15 x 1/8, or 15/8 of a
pizza. They find that 15/8 = 1 7/8, which is just 6 1/94
under 2 pizzas. 9 1/150
18 1/300
50 1/2050
100 1/144000
300 1/180000
900 1/270000
Creativity and Innovation (continued)

A creativity progression is a 4th Grade 8th Grade 12th Grade
process worth exploring that
can expand students content
knowledge and reinforce the
application of creativity and OUTCOME: Students listen to and evaluate others reasoning and offer improvements and corrections, with supporting arguments. They listen to others
innovation skills: feedback and modify their own arguments as needed. They learn from mistakes, and make repeated attempts at solving problems.
1. Solve exercises (standard solutions)

2. Solve problems (standard solutions) EXAMPLE: Students learn about cicadas (http:// EXAMPLE: Students explore different ways of EXAMPLE: Students explore the
animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/bugs/cicada/. tiling a floor using triangular tiles of a single size mathematics of the popular puzzle video
3. Solve problems using non-standard They discover that the Magicicada in eastern North and shape. Using geometry software or triangles game Angry Birds (http://forum.davidson.edu/
solutions (creative stretch) America are the worlds longest-living cicadas cut from paper, they experiment with rotations, mathmovement/2011/11/13/algebra-of-angry-
(www.magicicada.org) and that Magicicadas live in reflections, and translations of a given triangle. birds/). Working in teams, students build a hands-
4. Solve a class of problems
the ground and emerge only after 13 or 17 years, Students compare their tilings with one another, on version of the game. They create targets by
(metacognitive stretch) using
depending on the species. suggest ways to prove that any given triangle stacking blocks or other lightweight objects,
both standard and non-standard
can be arranged to cover the floor with no gaps, and they construct a toy catapult or slingshot
solutions
Students explore why these cycles are based on and respond to each others propositions. In to aim at the target (or toss a beanbag). After
5. Create new problems, and solve prime numbers. They learn that certain cicada this process, students examine the relationship experimenting by trying to knock down the
using both standard and non- predators might reach a population peak every 2, 3, between angles formed by a transversal to two target from various starting points, students
standard solutions 4, 5, or 6 years and that if a bird or other predator parallel lines. They see the connection between this come up with different equations for parabolas to
reaches a population peak during the same year discovery and the fact that the sum of the angles in see which will work to knock down the structure
6. Create new classes of problems,
that the cicadas emerge, more cicadas get eaten. a triangle is always a straight angle (180 degrees). from a given distance.
and solve using both standard and
non-standard solutions Students look at how many years it would take for
17-year cicadas to emerge in sync with a 5-year
predator (5 x 17 = 85 years). They see that a
10-year cicada, however, could be attacked
by a 5-year predator every 10 years.
Then students divide into two teams: the

cicadas and the predators. The predators
pick a number between 2 and 10 (years)
to represent how often they will attack the cicadas.
The cicadas pick a number to determine how often
they will emerge from the ground to breed, which
will also make them a target for predators. Then
team members confer on possible strategies and
experiment by choosing various combinations of
predator/cicada numbers. They discover that the
predators are like factors and the most successful
cicadas have prime-numbered cycles.

4th Grade 8th Grade 12th Grade
OUTCOME: Students look for patterns that suggest creative shortcuts or simplifying frames of reference. They make generalizations from patterns they
observe in repeated calculations. CCSS alignment: Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.
EXAMPLE: Students skip count from a variety of EXAMPLE: Each student EXAMPLE: Students use a computer algebra
different starting numbers. They identify patterns is given a square piece of system to factor completely the polynomial
and explain the patterns they observe. For example, cardboard with a hole in xn 1 for positive integer values of n. They
when skip counting by 5, they see that the last digit the middle and a drawn line conjecture a relationship between n and the
repeats every second time; when skip counting by segment connecting two number of factors and post their conjecture on
7, the last digit repeats every 10 times. Students sides of the square. The line a class website. Students review each others
create skip counting patterns with cycles of segment may connect any two conjectures, and then each student revises or
different lengths. They also identify skip counting sides at any point as long as it refines his or her own conjecture.
patterns in which the last digit repeats at varying does not pass through the middle of the square.
intervals. They investigate and record what sorts of Students spin the square on the tip of a pencil
cycle lengths and patterns are possible. and observe the optical illusion of a circle created
by the drawn line segment. Students come up
with a conjecture to identify where the illusionary
radius is. Then they translate their square to a
Cartesian coordinate plane and discuss the curve
tangent to the locus of the line segments as they
rotate about the center.

OUTCOME: By discovering fresh insights and communicating them to others, students come to understand that mathematics is a creative endeavor that
builds on previous knowledge.
EXAMPLE: Students explore Mayan mathematics EXAMPLE: Working in small groups, each team EXAMPLE: Working in teams,
(www.hanksville.org/yucatan/mayamath.html). of students explores a different numeral system students study examples of
They compare and contrast how numbers are and prepares a report for the rest of the class Kolams from Southern India
represented in our Arabic system and in the Mayan explaining how numbers are represented in the or Sona from Angola and Zaire
system. They practice writing Mayan numerals and system, how to do arithmetic operations, and the and explore the mathematics in
create addition and subtraction problems in the significance of the system. For example, binary these complex geometric art forms.
Mayan system for one another to solve (http:// (base 2) is the basis for electronic computing; They explore Kolam designs based on Fibonacci
mathforum.org/k12/mayan.math/index.html). duodecimal (base 12) is more convenient for numbers (http://vindhiya.com/Naranan/Fibonacci-
adding fractions than our decimal (base 10) Kolams/) and examine how an array of dots can
system is; and sexagesimal (base 60) was used by give rise to a one-line sona (www.beloit.edu/
the ancient Sumerians and Babylonians. computerscience/faculty/chavey/sona/). Using
the concepts they have learned, students try to
create their own Kolams or Sona.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Common Core State 4th Grade 8th Grade 12th Grade
Standards Alignment:
As the P21 Common Core Toolkit
points out, Critical Thinking OUTCOME: Students look for logical structure in addressing mathematical challenges. They are able to make complex choices and construct viable
and Problem Solving skills most arguments to defend their choices.
explicitly align with the following
Common Core State Standards
mathematical practices: EXAMPLE: Student create coded messages and EXAMPLE: Students examine a local building EXAMPLE: Students go online to research
decipher each others messages. They learn about that has stairs but no ramp for wheelchairs. current interest rates for unsubsidized Stafford
Make sense of problems and
Caesar ciphers used by Julius Caesar to send Working in groups, students identify the best loans, home equity loans, and home equity lines
persevere in solving them
secret messages to his military troopssimilar to place to install a ramp. Then they determine the of credit. Then they devise a plan for borrowing
Reason abstractly and quantitatively what we call substitution ciphers. In this type of appropriate slope, decide whether or not the $5,000 per year to help finance four years of
cipher, each letter is replaced by a different letter. ramp should have a switchback, and design the college while keeping costs as low as possible:
Model with mathematics
For example, if each letter were replaced by the ramp using the Pythagorean Theorem.
Look for and make use of structure letter four places down in the alphabet, then the Students calculate monthly payments and
sentence, Meet at the gate would be encoded, the total amount that would be owed (1) at
Qiix ex xli kexi. graduation, (2) five years after graduation, and (3)
10 years after graduation.
Working in small groups, each team creates a coded
message using a substitution cipher and then gives Students also determine how
its message to another group to decipher. the strategy would change if one
of the options were a federally
Students learn that Morse Code and Braille are subsidized Stafford loan.
also like secret codes and that computers are
programmed with coded messages. For both subsidized and unsubsidized Stafford
loans, students need to consider the limits on
how much may be borrowed each year.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving (continued)

OUTCOME: Students identify and ask significant questions about mathematics and engage in analyzing each others answers.
EXAMPLE: Each student creates a Mbius band EXAMPLE: The class divides into two groups. EXAMPLE: Students explore the napkin ring
by starting with a long, thin strip of paper, giving In one group, students use a piece of string and problem: if a hole of height h is drilled through
one end a half-twist, and taping the two ends a ruler to measure the circumference (c) and the center of a sphere, the volume of the portion
together. Students draw a line along the center of diameter (d) of circular objects, such as the lid of of the sphere that remains does not depend on
their band and discover that the line ends where it a jar, the face of a clock, or a pie plate. For each the size of the original sphere; it depends only on
began, confirming that the band has only one side. object measured, they calculate c/d. Then they h. They share and critique their insights into why
calculate the average of each result to come up this is so. Then students explore mathematician
Students view with an approximate value for pi. Keith Devlins 2008 discussion of the problem at
pictures of the www.maa.org/devlin/devlin_04_08.html, where
standard recycling In the other group, students use the method Devlin provides the full computation and explains
symbol and recognize developed by Archimedes, using inscribed and why some solutions posted online are incorrect.
that it represents a Standard Symbol Alternative Symbol circumscribed polygons. Students explore solutions currently appearing
Mbius band. The online and assess which solutions are accurate
class discusses why Students compare the two groups results. They and which are not.
this one-sided figure recognize that pi is an irrational number, so it
seems appropriate cannot be measured precisely. Then they research
for use as a recycling Standard Band Alternative Band how people in different cultures have tried to
symbol. Then students calculate pi from ancient to modern times.
look for recycling symbols in the community. By
studying the symbols carefully, they may discover
that sometimes the standard symbol appears, but
sometimes a slightly different symbol is used.
Students try to determine how the alternative

symbol differs from the Mbius band symbol. Then
they create the alternative band from a strip of
paper by giving one end three half-twists and then
taping the ends together. They debate whether the
alternative band is one-sided or two-sided and
then draw a line along the center to determine
the answer.

OUTCOME: Students make sense of applied mathematical problems through analysis and synthesis of evidence, and persevere in solving problems.
EXAMPLE: Students work in small groups to EXAMPLE: Students choose three meals from EXAMPLE: Students read about the
design a parking lot. Given a flat, rectangular space a fast food restaurantbreakfast, lunch, and mathematics of three-dimensional maps that a
with set dimensions, each group arranges rows dinnerand obtain nutrition information from team of researchers has designed for measuring
of parking spaces to be easily accessible while the restaurant or from its website. They add up the environmental value of open space areas with
allowing for a maximum number of cars to park. the calories for each meal and compute the total no roads (www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/
Students may visit an actual parking lot to assess calories that one would consume in a day from id/8519/title/Math_Trek__Miles_from_Nowhere).
and measure parking space width and angles. Each the three meals.
group creates a drawing of its design and presents Students then explore current
it to the class. To analyze their totals, students refer to policies pertaining to conserving
the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans roadless areas, such as the
(http://health.gov/dietaryguidelines/dga2010/ controversial Roadless Rule
DietaryGuidelines2010.pdf). They use the and determine how the
table on page 14 of the Guidelines mathematical maps could be used
to estimate their caloric needs to improve policies for conserving
based on age, gender, and physical open space. They craft a letter to
activity level. their congressional representative
or another policymaker explaining
Students also add up the protein, fat, their analysis.
sodium, and carbohydrates for the three meals
they selected, list the percentage for each item,
and compare it with the Guidelines.

OUTCOME: Students analyze how parts of a whole interact with each other in mathematical systems.
EXAMPLE: Students learn about different EXAMPLE: Students debate the merits of ranked- EXAMPLE: Students examine college rankings
calendar systems and come to realize that the choice voting and its recent use in several local from U.S. News and other sources, addressing
movements of the earth, moon, sun, and solar elections (http://io9.com/5857724/ranked-choice- such questions as: Why do people pay so much
system interact with each other and affect how we voting-does-a-mathematical-algorithm-make-for-better- attention to these numbers? Are they based on
elections). To compare ranked-choice voting with
mark time. a solid algorithm, or is the algorithm flawed? In
traditional voting systems, the class conducts a mock
The Gregorian (Western) calendar is based on what ways can colleges manipulate the rankings
election with three to five candidates. The candidates
Earths orbit around the sun. Since one year may be actual persons, fictional characters, favorite by trying to improve their scores in key parts of
(365.25 days) is slightly longer than Earths songs, or other choices. Instead of voting for just one the algorithm to end up with a higher ranking?
current orbit, three days are skipped every four candidate, students rank their top three choices.
centuries.
In tabulating results, students initially count only
The Muslim calendar is based each voters first choice. If no candidate
on lunar cycles in which the receives more than 50 percent of the vote,
beginning date for each month students take three different approaches for
is based on when the new moon determining the winner:
can be observed. The beginning
of the month varies among different Muslim 1. Simply declare the candidate with the most
countries, and western Muslim countries are first-choice votes to be the winner.
likely to observe the beginning of the month a 2. Hold a run-off election between the two candidates
day earlier than eastern Muslim countries. who received the most first-choice votes.
The Chinese calendar is based on 60-year cycles 3. Tabulate voters ranked choices: First, the candidate
and uses the phases of the moon to determine with the lowest number of first-choice votes is
dates for each New Year. eliminated, and the second and third choices of that
candidates supporters are added to the counts of
The Hebrew calendar uses lunar cycles and adds the other candidates. The votes are tabulated again,
an extra month every two or three years to and candidates are eliminated until one candidate
adjust to the solar year. receives a majority of the eligible votes.
Students compare the three outcomes and talk

about how the math we choose can affect the
kind of government we get. Students may also read
mathematician Keith Devlins discussion of election
math, available online at www.maa.org/devlin/
devlin_11_04.html.
Communication & Collaboration

Core Toolkit, Communication OUTCOME: Students articulate mathematical thoughts and ideas using oral and written communication skills. Using abstract and quantitative reasoning
and Collaboration skills are most with attention to precision, they construct viable arguments and analyze others reasoning.
explicitly aligned with the following
Common Core State Standards
mathematical practices: EXAMPLE: Students pair up and play The EXAMPLE: Working in small groups, students EXAMPLE: As a joint activity with
Factor Game, which challenges players to find compare the cost of buying a hybrid versus a a social studies class, students
Construct viable arguments and
factors of numbers on a gameboard. In an online non-hybrid car. Students research pricing and study the history of how seats
critique the reasoning of others
version, available at http://illuminations.nctm. fuel miles-per-gallon estimates for comparable have been allocated in the
Attend to precision org/activitydetail.aspx?id=12, the gameboard can models of hybrids an non-hybrids. U.S. House of Representatives.
include numbers up to 30, 49, or 100. Students can They factor in average local gas They analyze the mathematics
Look for and express regularity in
start with the simplest version, try to identify the prices over x years. Using their behind different plans and underlying socio-
repeated reasoning
mathematics that leads to a winning strategy, and knowledge of linear functions, political issues, such as the effects on small
then test their strategies using larger numbers. students then analyze the versus large states or rural versus urban
overall of cost of the hybrid populations. Students then solve various fair
Students then present and compare their playing versus the non-hybrid vehicle division problems for their city council or state
strategies with their classmates approaches to over x number of years, using house of representatives using different plans.
determine optimal strategies. At a Family Math assumptions regarding the Finally, students hold a debate in which students
Night, pairs of students present the game to their average price of gas and how advocate for different plans, considering both the
family members and explain strategies for winning. many miles the car will be driven mathematical and social issues that go into the
each year. Students analyze how changing the allocation of seats.
number of years or number of miles to be driven
would affect the outcome. Each group presents
its results and conclusions to the class.
Communication & Collaboration (continued)

OUTCOME: Students listen effectively to the reasoning of peers. They rephrase another students explanation or engage in questioning in order to
decipher a peers solution to a mathematical problem.
EXAMPLE: A soccer team is planning an end-of- EXAMPLE: Students work in groups to create EXAMPLE: Students play the role of teacher for
season party. There are 4 tables in the party room, graphical representations of common, well-known a short, specific mathematics lesson. In advance
and the players have 36 balloons to decorate the functional relationships. For example, one group of the class, they study the material, plan what
tables: 12 red balloons, 12 yellow, and 12 blue. might examine the number of people standing supportive materials or manipulatives to use,
There are 14 players on the soccer team. How in line at the post office at various hours of the and develop a lesson plan. Then the students
many balloons should each table have? What is the day; another group might consider the amount of teach the class and assign follow-up work to
best way to divide up the colors? And how many business at a local coffee shop at various hours; assess what their peers learned. The students
players should sit at each table? a third group might compare different school in the class are encouraged to pose challenging
lunchroom menus with the number of students questions that could possibly stump their student
Students work in small groups. In each group, who bought lunch that day. teacher and lead to further discussion or
one student presents a plan and explains why investigation of the topics under study.
its the best way to distribute the balloons and In each group, students select a title for their
the seating. A second student repeats the first graph and provide that title to the teacher only.
students explanation in his or her own words. The teacher compiles a list of titles. Students post
Then the other students in the group ask about each groups graph around the classroom, and
the explanation to help make sure its a good plan then each student tries to figure out which title
and that it is clear to everyone. Then each group is associated with each graph. Once everyone
presents its plan to the whole class. has matched each graph with a title, students
share their reasoning for each match. When
varied opinions regarding titles come up, students
discuss the qualitative aspects of the function that
has been graphed. The discussion also provides
avenues for students to question peers regarding
their explanation and reasoning.

OUTCOME: Students work efficiently and respectfully in diverse teams, articulating mathematical thoughts and ideas effectively. They use oral, written and
nonverbal communication skills, demonstrating how mathematics is used to model problems of broad interest to society.
EXAMPLE: Students work in groups to design EXAMPLE: Students form EXAMPLE: Students form teams to engage in a
a bedroom. One student in the group plays the investigative teams. Each team is modeling project similar to problems presented
role of client, and the others act as the design asked to investigate the crime rate in the Mathematical Contest in Modeling run
team. The design team is given building constraints in a particular city, represented each year by COMAP. For example, the following
on floor area, wall area, and minimum number of by the variable x. Each team problem is adapted from the 2009 competition:
windows. The design team interviews the client then formulates a question about
for preferences regarding: window and door a possible causal variable y. For example, a team Many cities and communities have traffic circles.
placement; size and placement of bed, desk, and might ask if crime rates are lower in cities with a Some traffic circles are large and have many
closets; and size and locations for any wall posters larger police force, or higher in cities with higher lanes, such as at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and
or other decorative items that the client asks to poverty rates. The team then chooses 30 to 40 the Victory Monument in Bangkok. Some have
have included. The design team produces a scale other cities with which to compare their citys only one or two lanes in the circle. Some traffic
drawing of the room with an explanation of why crime rate. By searching on the Internet, they circles position a stop sign or a yield sign on
it satisfies the constraints and the wishes of the collect data on x and y. If team members find their every incoming road that gives priority to traffic
client. The client checks the design and sends it data too difficult to access, they consider revising already in the circle. Others post yield signs in
back for more work if necessary. the question. For example, if they are not finding the circle at each incoming road to give priority
suitable data on poverty rates, team members to incoming traffic. Still others have a traffic light
might decide to investigate the size of the police where each incoming road meets the circle (with
force in each city instead. Team members analyze no right turn allowed on a red light). Other
the data they have collected, define the relationship designs may also be possible.
between x and y, and discuss questions such as
the reliability of the data, its statistical significance, Students form teams, and teach team develops
and the validity of the sources. Each team prepares a model for creating a traffic circle in their own
a presentation, explaining the findings and team community or in a nearby city (or modifying an
members conclusions. existing traffic circle).
1. First, team members discuss how many lanes
should be in the circle and the rate of traffic
flow. If feasible, they may collect actual traffic
data.
2. Team members outline alternatives for the
placement of stop signs or yield signs and
other design factors. Then they work together
(continued on next page)

to determine how to best control traffic flow

in, around, and out of the circle.
3. Team members determine the best alternatives
and explain what factors influenced their
decision, such as the effect on traffic flow and
safety.
4. Team members refine their model. For example,
if traffic lights are recommended, students
develop a method for determining how many
seconds each light should remain green, which
may vary according to the time of day and
other factors.
Information Literacy
Core Toolkit, Information Literacy OUTCOME: Students identify sources of data, access data, critically evaluate it, and then use it to explore significant questions about our world.
skills are most explicitly aligned
with the following Common Core
State Standards mathematical EXAMPLE: Students work in teams EXAMPLE: Students use the 2010 census EXAMPLE: Students use the Department of
practices: using the U.S. Census Bureau State website (http://2010.census.gov/2010census/ Labors Bureau of Labor Statistics (http://www.
Construct viable arguments and and County Quick Facts (http:// data/) to access the 2010 Census Brief, The bls.gov/) to investigate regional U.S. employment
critique the reasoning of others quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/index. Hispanic Population: 2010. Each student selects data. Each student focuses on two states in
html) to look up population facts a U.S. Hispanic population category identified by different parts of the country. For each state, the
Attend to precision for five states in different parts country of origin (Mexican, Dominican, Puerto student constructs: (1) a graph showing
Look for and express regularity in of the country. The site shows each Rican, etc.) and investigates data associated with unemployment rate trends over
repeated reasoning states population in 2000 and in 2010, and the that population group: the number of residents the past 10 years; (2) a graph
percent change. Students create a table listing from the selected country of origin in 2000 and comparing unemployment trends
this information for each of the five states and 2010 and the percent change over those 10 years. within three different job sectors;
for the total U.S. population. Then students Students then use the Internet to research the and (3) a graph or table comparing
estimate the 2020 population for each of the population and average annual income unemployment trends in the state
five states and for the U.S. as a whole. Groups for the selected country of origin. as a whole with trends in a particular city within
share their tables with the class, and students Students look for correlations the state. Based on the data collected, students
talk about which areas of the country show the between immigration numbers and identify a good place to relocate and look for a
most population growth and possible reasons to the population and income levels job. Students present their findings to the class
explain population growth or decline. for the country of origin. Students and share their thoughts about the extent to
share their results with the class. In a which data might influence their own future
SAMPLE: group discussion, students analyze the influence decisions about where to live or what sort of
of income levels in Latin American countries on career to pursue.
State Population Population % Change Forecast rates of emigration to the United States.
in 2000 in 2010 20002010 for 2020
California
Nebraska
Louisiana
Vermont
South Carolina
U.S. Total
Information Literacy (continued)

OUTCOME: Students explore new areas of mathematics and its applications, and share what they have learned with others.
EXAMPLE: Students explore the topic of fractals EXAMPLE: Students analyze a set of sports EXAMPLE: Students explore knot theory
on an age-appropriate website, such as http://math. statistics, such as baseball box scores, college and its role in genetics (www.oglethorpe.edu/
rice.edu/~lanius/frac/, which explains what fractals basketball data, tennis rankings, or college faculty/~j_nardo/knots/history.htm). They learn
are, why we study them, how people use them football standings. They examine how winners how the DNA in every cell of our bodies is made
to solve real-world problems, and how to make are chosen and explore possible alternatives up of long, coiled strands that get mathematically
various types of fractals. Using information found for ranking players or teams in ways that are knotted in ways that lead to chemical changes
online, each student creates a fractal, shares it with accurate and fair. in the DNA. Using string, rope, or even tangled
the class, and explains how it works. audio headphone chords, students create several
types of knots, such as those shown at www.
mathedpage.org/pcmi/knot-theory.pdf. Then
students examine each others knots and identify
them by type: unknot, trefoil, figure eight, five-star,
one of the sixs, etc. Students photograph and
label the knots and display them by creating a
poster or posting them to a photo gallery on a
class website.
Information Literacy (continued)

OUTCOME: Students learn about mathematics from reliable websites and share their knowledge with others.
EXAMPLE: Students investigate the topic of EXAMPLE: Students work in groups to EXAMPLE: Students work in groups to
mathematical tessellation by reading articles about investigate a field of modern mathematics investigate the history of a topic within the
it. Then they experiment with ways of tiling a floor research, such as the four-color map theorem, classs current field of study, using websites such
or creating a geometric pattern for a quilt by fractals, buckeyballs, or the mathematics of as the MacTutor History of Mathematics (http://
building a tessellation using an interactive online DNA structure. Each group presents its findings www-history.mcs.st-and.ac.uk/). For example, if
tool such as: to the class. the class is studying algebra, each group explores
the history of an algebra topic, such as quadratic
NCTMs Illuminations website (http://illuminations. equations, group theory, or set theory. Each
nctm.org/ActivitySearch.aspx), or the National group creates a wiki entry based on its findings.
Library of Virtual Manipulatives (http://nlvm.usu.
edu/en/nav/vlibrary.html). Students then work in
small groups to share their results. The group
identifies shapes that fit together to form a
tessellation and shapes that do not.
Media Literacy
Core Toolkit, Media Literacy skills OUTCOME: Students understand how statistics, probabilities, and media messages are constructed for social purposes and how individuals interpret
are most explicitly aligned with the messages differently. They examine purposes of statistical messages, the tools, characteristics, and conventions used, and how media can influence beliefs
Common Core State Standards and behaviors.
mathematical practice calling for
students to use appropriate tools
in a strategic way. In addition, the EXAMPLE: Students make a list of all the media EXAMPLE: Students study how the U.S. Bureau EXAMPLE: Students read articles
examples below provide students messages they encounter one morning before of Labor Statistics (BLS) uses the Consumer Price about the Centers for Disease
with an opportunity to develop school. For example, they might see a health Index (CPI) to measure inflation. Then students Control (CDC) 2004 report
expertise in the following Common claim on a cereal box, hear news headlines on examine how the European Union measures claiming obesity was responsible
Core State Standards mathematical TV or radio, spot an ad on the side of a local bus, inflation using the Harmonized for 400,000 deaths each year
practice: and notice posters for a local election campaign. Index of Consumer Prices. After and the ensuing outcry leading
Construct viable arguments and Then they use a spreadsheet to categorize the comparing the two approaches, to the reduction of this figure in
critique the reasoning of others purposes of each message, the tools used, and students read media articles about the following years report to 24,000. They
other characteristics. For example, a student might the CPI and inflation and discuss discuss how correlations are formed and the
Model with mathematics decide to track which messages are food-related, how the governments way of importance of confounding factors related to
which ones are health-related, which ones are measuring the CPI affects public spurious relationships.
trying to get them to buy something, which ones policy decisions.
use electronic media, and which messages are
aimed at children. Students tally the number of
messages in each category.
Media Literacy (continued)

OUTCOME: Students gain a fundamental understanding of the legal and ethical issues surrounding the access, use, and potential distortion of
mathematical information, terms, and concepts. They recognize the common tendency to treat quantitative data as truth and to infer patterns where
none exist.
EXAMPLE: Students examine the EXAMPLE: Student teams create questions for EXAMPLE: Students read
numbers on food labels. Each a student survey to determine whether or not to articles about the so-called
student lists the serving size introduce Meatless Mondays in the Climategate scandal of 2009,
on a bag of chips, the amount school cafeteria. Each team creates in which critics charged that
of fat per serving, and the daily survey questions and polls 30 some scientists had manipulated
value percentage. Then the student students in the school. Each team data to overstate global
estimates the number of servings he or she would then compiles descriptive statistics warming trends. They also read
actually eat, and recalculates fat per serving and on the findings such as gender and about more recent studies
daily value based on the number of servings (see grade levels of the students polled, confirming or refuting earlier
sample below). Students do a similar estimation the percentage of students who like data on the impact of global
and calculation for cereal, cookies, salad dressing, to eat meat every day, percentage warming. Based on an analysis of relevant data
milk, or other foods. Students can also calculate who never eat meat, percentage and charts, students break into groups to argue
estimates for saturated fat, sugar, or sodium. who sometimes eat meat, and comments for both sides of this issue to explain global warming
Students talk about their findings and discuss the and against Meatless Mondays. Students then and how it relates to climate change.
fact that (as footnoted on food labels) daily value compare the different teams findings and discuss
is based on a 2,000-calorie-per-day dietand margin of error in relation to the findings and the
some people need more than 2,000 calories per role of random representative samples.
day while others need less.
SAMPLE:
Item Service Fat per Daily Estimated Estimated Estimated

size serving value # of fat daily
servings value

Tortilla 7 chips 7 grams 10% 2 servings 14 grams 20%
chips (14 chips)
Salad 2 Tbsp 11 grams 17% 1/2 servings 5.5 grams 8.5%

dressing (1 Tbsp)
Media Literacy (continued)

OUTCOME: Students present statistical information in ways that support a particular view or help others understand information.
EXAMPLE: The entire class creates EXAMPLE: Students research statistics about EXAMPLE: Students work in
a list of state(s) or countries where the population of a particular country, including small groups, and each group
each students parents were born. the total population, the number of people researches a country in the
Students then work in small groups in each ethnic group, population percentages developing world. Each student
to present the information in a way associated with particular religions, the total within a group researches
that will make it easier to understand. For workforce, and the percentage of workers economic development in
example, one group might create a table listing in specific sectors, such as agriculture and a particular region of the
the total number of parents from Texas, the total government service. Students analyze the data groups assigned country and
number from other U.S. states, the number from and write a country fact sheet that aims to collects statistics about that
Mexico, etc. Another group might create a chart attract visitors to the country they have studied. region, such as per capita income,
using different colors of dots to show how many They create a chart, graph, or table to present access to safe water, number of cell phones,
parents came from each state or country, and the data discussed in their write-up. infant mortality rate, etc. Each member of the
students might experiment with different ways The fact sheet may also include group creates a table based on the information
of arranging the dots. Another group might begin attractive photos or other images he or she has collected, and then the group
with a map and mark each state or country with from the country. publishes its tables online and writes a short
stick figures or other symbols to show how many report comparing and contrasting data from the
parents were born there. countrys different regions.
EXAMPLE: Students create a class list showing

each students birthday month and shoe size.
Working in small groups, students create a
scatter plot or chart depicting the relationship
between birthday months and shoe sizes. Each
group analyses the information and identifies a
correlation between the two sets of data, such as,
Classmates born in winter have bigger feet than
those born in summer, or Most fourth graders
born in August wear size 7 shoes. Each group
prepares a presentation to convince the rest of
the class of the statistical merit of the correlation
the group has identified. Classmates prepare oral
or written rebuttals arguing why the correlation
may be based on insufficient evidence.
Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT) Literacy

Core Toolkit, ICT Literacy skills OUTCOME: Students use tools such as graphing calculators, spreadsheets, computer graphing, computer algebra systems, GPS devices, and online
are most explicitly aligned with resources appropriately and strategically.
the following Common Core State
Standards mathematical practice:
EXAMPLE: Students list their daily activities and EXAMPLE: Students access current stock EXAMPLE: Student teams research
Use appropriate tools strategically
note how many hours per day they spend on each market data online showing the percentage current interest rates and loan
activity. For example, a student might spend 8 increase or decrease for each company in the rates, and then compare
hours sleeping, 7 hours at school, 1 hour traveling New York Stock Exchange. They generate three different ways someone with
to and from school, 1 hour doing homework, random samples showing percentage $500 per month of disposable
1 hour doing an arts or sports activity, 1 hour changes for 5 companies, 15 income could purchase a
reading, 2 hours eating, 1 hour playing outside, 1 companies, and 30 companies. $10,000 automobile. For each
hour watching TV and 1 hour playing games. The Using a graphing calculator or of the following payment methods, students
total should add up to 24 hours. Then, students similar tool, students explore generalize patterns from a few payment cycles
use the following internet tools to create visual different ways to (1) show the and use a spreadsheet to study how long it
representations: data graphically for each sample; and will take to pay off a balance, the total of all
National Library of Virtual Manipulatives: (http:// (2) summarize the data for each sample using payments made, and the total amount of interest
nlvm.usu.edu/en/nav/vlibrary.html) to create a a single number. Students compare the results charged over the life of the balance:
bar chart and a pie chart with percentages for the different sizes of random samples and 1. Using a credit card for the entire purchase
discuss why one might analyze stock market and paying only the minimum balance each
Shodors Project Interactivate (www.shodor.org/ changes using a random sample instead of
interactivate/) to create a circle graph and a bar month.
collecting data from every company on the New
graph York Stock Exchange. 2. Using a credit card for the entire purchase
NCTMs Illuminations website (http:// and paying $500 per month.
illuminations.nctm.org/ActivitySearch.aspx) to 3. Taking advantage of a special loan from the
create a data graph. automobile dealer: 1% interest for the first six
months and 5 % thereafter.
4. Delaying the purchase in order to save up for
it first: Spending $100 per month on public
transportation and putting $400 per month
into a savings, checking, or money market
account for one year at current interest rates.
Then, using the amount saved as a down
payment for the car, using a credit card for
the remainder due, and spending $500 per
month to pay off the credit card loan as soon
as possible.
Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT) Literacy (continued)

OUTCOME: Students use technology to communicate mathematical insights by constructing appropriate graphical representations of functions and of data.
EXAMPLE: Students are given a pretend $20 to EXAMPLE: Students use statistical software EXAMPLE: Students use
spend and a list of foods for purchase. such as Tinkerplots or Fathom to compare the graphing calculators, computer
They look up prices using an variables associated with different passenger algebra systems, or both, to
online grocery store or other vehicles. Students identify miles-per-gallon and assist in examining patterns in
source, trying to make wise price for each vehicle. They create a scatter population growth or decline
choices with their limited funds. plot to show the relationship between the two of a particular animal species
They record the name, cost, variables for the different vehicles. Then students using data from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
quantity and total amount they look for patterns that might or another source. For example, students might
would spend for each item. Using online tools, indicate a relationship between study the changes in the population of Canada
they create a pie chart comparing the amount to the two variables and create an geese by building functions and examining
be spent on breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. equation to model the behavior graphs to answer problems regarding long-term
They describe each portion as a fraction and as a of the relationship. trends. Students can share their findings with a
percentage and discuss the relationship between school biology class by developing a lesson on
these two representations of rational numbers. the use of mathematics in examining biological
They also convert the pie chart to a graph and developments.
compare these two ways of depicting the data.
Flexibility and Adaptability

states, Life and Career skills such OUTCOME: Students work in pairs and small groups to address mathematical challenges that involve varied roles and responsibilities, and require working
as Flexibility and Adaptability, align effectively in a climate of ambiguity and changing priorities.
well with the Common Core State
Standards mathematical practice
standard which calls for students EXAMPLE: In small groups, EXAMPLE: Working in small groups or pairs, EXAMPLE: Students work in
to make sense of and persevere in students plan a school purchase students compare the amount of fresh water pairs or small groups to collect
solving problems. The examples of items such as furniture, needed to produce various animal and vegetable four news reports on the results
below provide students with school supplies, and playground foods, using online sources such as the following: of public opinion polls about
opportunities to develop expertise equipment based on a fixed www.waterfootprint.org the debt ceiling. Each pair or
in the following Common Core budget. Students determine the group lists the survey methods of
State Standards mathematical prices of items they are considering and discuss www.agrometeorology.org/topics/new- the polls discussed in the news
practices: the tradeoffs required to stay within budget. Group information-for-agrometeorologists/ reports. For example, methods
members make individual recommendations, globalization-of-water-the-connection-between- may include the number of
Construct viable arguments and negotiate, and come to a group decision. Members water-consumption-and-production-in-a- respondents in a random sample;
critique the reasoning of others of the group can also take on various roles such globalizing-world.-water-footprints the age and/or gender mix of persons polled;
Model with mathematics as scheduler, group moderator, accountant, record margin of sampling error; languages used for
keeper, writer, and speaker to present the chosen Then, each group creates a one- polling; number of landline respondents; number
purchase order to the class. week menu (five lunches) for of cell phone respondents; and factors used in
the school cafeteria that aims weighting each sample, such as education, race,
to minimize water use while ethnicity, size of household, and region. Group
being both appealing and nutritious members then compare the results of each poll
for students. Students post their by examining the polling dates and other factors.
proposed menus in a prominent A member from each group shares the groups
location at the school. analyses with the class in a short presentation.
Then, each student identifies two or three polls
that he or she believes to be most accurate,
writes a short paragraph to explain why, and
posts it on a class message board.
Initiative and Self-Direction

states, Life and Career skills such OUTCOME: Students monitor, define, prioritize, and complete tasks independently, while balancing tactical and strategic goals to solve
as Initiative and Self-direction align mathematical problems.
well with the Common Core State
Standards mathematical practice
standard calling for students to EXAMPLE: Students work alone or in small EXAMPLE: Students work alone or in small EXAMPLE: Early in the school year, each small
make sense of and persevere in groups to look for a method of finding the sum of groups to tackle the non-standard mathematical group of students is given a pretend $1,000 to
solving problems. The examples all whole numbers from 1 to 100 without adding problem, Two primes make one square (http:// invest. Team members compare risk and return
below also provide students with up all the numbers individually. Students who need nrich.maths.org/5743). First, students identify rates on various stocks, bonds, mutual
opportunities to develop expertise help getting started might first wish to examine prime numbers between 1 and 100 that are the funds, certificates of deposit, and
in the following Common Core ways of adding up the numbers from 1 to 10. sum of two square numbers (for example, 4=2+2; other investments. They research
State Standards mathematical 9=2+7; and 16=5+11). Then, students try to find financial forecasts, inflation rates,
practices: square numbers that are not the sum of two compounding of reinvested
primes. By identifying prime numbers and listing earnings, and the impact of taxes
Construct viable arguments and the squares of numbers from 4 to 20, students in selecting their investments. Each
critique the reasoning of others may discover that 121 and 289 cannot be group shares its investment strategy with the
Look for and make use of structure expressed as the sum of two square numbers. class, and students track their investments over
time by calculating what the return on their
Look for and express regularity in Students may also discover that whenever an odd original $1,000 would be each month. They
repeated reasoning square number is the sum of two primes, one of reinvest each months earnings and determine
the primes must be the number 2. Students are whether to change investment vehicles or keep
asked why one of the primes must be 2. the money where it already is. After six months,
each group calculates its total return, reviews
its strategy, and presents a report to the class.
Students discuss which groups strategies were
most effective and why.
Initiative and Self-Direction (continued)

OUTCOME: Students reflect critically on past experiences solving mathematical problems and make connections among mathematical representations in
order to inform future problem solving endeavors.
EXAMPLE: Students use their understanding EXAMPLE: Students compare a cell phone EXAMPLE: Students review the algebraic
of models for multiplication (equal-sized groups, plan costing $29.99 per month plus $0.10 per formula for exponential growth and use the
arrays, area models), place value, and properties of text message with a plan costing $39.99 and formula to solve a basic problem
operations (especially the distributive property) to $0.02 per text message by calculating how many involving the spread of a viral
develop efficient, accurate methods of computing text messages would need to be sent disease: If 100 people are currently
the products of multi-digit whole numbers. Then, and received each month in order infected, and the number of people
students work in small groups to discuss their new for the second plan to be less infected doubles every twelve
methods and make sure that each method can be expensive than the first. Students hours, how many people will be
generalized to apply to all whole numbers. then create an algebraic formula infected after one week?
for computing the total cost of any
cell phone plan based on per month The class discusses the
and text message costs. Next, students draw exponential spread of infections
connections among tables, graphs, and algebraic and identifies other relevant
solutions for such problems. They recognize examples of exponential growth,
how such connections can form a basis for such as: bacteria growth; human
solving future linear and non-linear problems in population growth; the growth
multiple ways. of atmospheric carbon dioxide; and,
in finance, the compounding of interest. Then
students work in groups: each group poses a
question involving exponential growth and gives
it to another group to answer. Each group shares
its results with the class.
Social and Cross-Cultural Skills

states, Life and Career skills such OUTCOME: Students learn about the use of mathematics in other cultures. They recognize the contributions to mathematics from a variety of cultures
as Social and Cross-cultural Skills and the needs that led to those contributions.
align well with the Common Core
State Standards mathematical
practice standard calling for EXAMPLE: Students make a EXAMPLE: Students investigate EXAMPLE: Students create a website about
students to make sense of and timeline covering the history of the geometric patterns in Medieval the history of trigonometry, focusing on how
persevere in solving problems. The the U.S. system of measurement Islamic tiling. They explore the advancements emerged from practical interests,
examples below provide students with the history of the metric use of the girih in art and such as the quest for astronomical
with opportunities to develop system. They learn how to convert architecture and its similarity to measurements, the need to find
expertise in the following Common between the two systems and discuss modern mathematical tiling patterns known ways of telling time, and the
Core State Standards mathematical the merits of using the metric system. Students as Penrose tiles. Students also examine the importance of cartography and
practice: work online with students in a country that uses symmetric patterns of the Alhambra, a walled navigation tools. Working in
the metric system and compare their different city and fortress in Granada, Spain built under groups, each team of students
Model with mathematics ways of measuring distance, volume, weight, and Muslim rule. focuses on a different part of the
temperature. website: One group prepares a report on the
EXAMPLE: Students work in groups development of sine, cosine, and versine in India
EXAMPLE: To learn about the euro, students to investigate the development of and how these concepts developed from Indian
can investigate the following: what denominations mathematics in an ancient culture. astronomy. Another group focuses on the further
of banknotes and coins are available; the Each group focuses on mathematics development of trigonometry in the Islamic
euros value in relation the U.S. dollar; in a particular culture, such as world and the contributions of Abu Wafa in the
which countries use the euro; when Babylonian, Indian, Arabic, Chinese, or 10th century C.E. A third group focuses on
the euro was adopted and why; Mayan mathematics. Students use sources such work of Al-Biruni the 11th century, including his
and how it links the economies of as the MacTutor History of Mathematics (www- demonstration of the tangent formula. A fourth
different countries in Europe. history.mcs.st-and.ac.uk). Each group presents a group reports on how the work of Jabir Ibn Aflah
lesson to the class using the mathematics of the helped spread trigonometry to Europe in the
culture studied. 13th century.
Social and Cross-Cultural Skills (continued)

OUTCOME: Students apply tools of mathematics, such as statistical analysis, to understanding cross-cultural problems and issues.
EXAMPLE: Students talk with EXAMPLE: Students collect EXAMPLE: Students make a
members of the community who statistics on per capita energy use timeline covering the history of
depend on local bus service to get in India and in the United States to different currencies and work
to work and find out how well the discover that Indians use a lot less out conversions for current
bus schedule and bus routes support energy per capita than Americans. values using proportionality
their need to get to work or to meet They research lifestyles in India and and linear functions. They study
their children after school. Students then share the identify reasons why people use less energy. inflation in terms of exponential
community members feedback with one another, Students then research population growth rates growth and use the Cost
look at local bus schedules and routes, and analyze to discover that Indias population is growing Performance Index to set up ratios
the situation mathematically. Students prepare much faster than the U.S.. Students create and determine the real value of money.
a written report to share with the community a mathematical formula based on per capita Students read news articles from around the
and other appropriate parties, such as local energy use and population growth to compute world about currency trading and identify its
government officials. each countrys rate of increase in total energy effects on inflation in various countries.
consumption.
Productivity and Accountability

states, Life and Career skills such OUTCOME: Students set goals, establish priorities and schedules, and meet goals to complete a project.
as Productivity and Accountability
State Standards mathematical EXAMPLE: Students work in groups to solve EXAMPLE: Students work in small groups EXAMPLE: Students work in small groups
practice calling for students to a mathematics problem. Each group is assigned to research a mathematical topic the class to research a mathematical topic the class
make sense of and persevere in a problem on a different topic and identifies has not yet covered. Students make plans for has not yet covered. Each group explores a
solving problems. The examples the mathematical knowledge needed to solve it. sharing the work, making sure that each team different topic, and students are responsible
below provide students with Groups are then reorganized so that in each new member understands all aspects of the topic for making sure each team member
opportunities to develop expertise group, each student is responsible for reviewing assigned. Each team creates a presentation to completely understands the groups topic.
in the following Common Core the mathematics for the problem they worked on teach the rest of the class about their assigned Group members work together to teach and
State Standards mathematical in the first group, presenting a solution to their topic. Students focus not only on the content present their topic to the rest of the class.
practice: problem to the others in the group. Each student of their presentation, but also on using effective Students not only use good presentation
Attend to precision is likewise responsible for helping others in their presentation techniques, such speaking in an techniques and incorporate representations of
new group understand their topic. appropriate voice, making eye contact, and the mathematical topic, but they also involve
incorporating visual representations of the the audience by encouraging class members to
mathematical topic. Students use technology in answer questions, ask questions, share ideas,
their presentation where appropriate. and solve problems. Students use appropriate
technology in their presentations, such as
applets, websites, mathematical software, or
other presentation tools.
Leadership and Responsibility

states, Life and Career skills such OUTCOME: Students use interpersonal and problem-solving skills to leverage strengths of peers and solve mathematical problems important to
as Leadership and Responsibility their community.
State Standards mathematical
practice calling for students to
EXAMPLE: Students plan a community garden EXAMPLE: Students work together to redesign EXAMPLE: Students work
make sense of and persevere in by computing the perimeter and area of the space a school playground or public park in their collaboratively to assess
solving problems. The examples available and planning what items to plant, based community, and create a scale model of the new the costs, benefits, and
below provide students with on the local climate, demand for the crop, and design for public view. First, students discuss how drawbacks of introducing
opportunities to develop expertise how well each item would fit in the available space. the space is currently used and how they think a lottery in the community.
in the following Common Core Students consider the size and shape of the space space should be reallocated and redesigned to They research how the
State Standards mathematical devoted to each crop to create a scale drawing of enhance popular activities or create additional proceeds would be used,
practices: their plan. space for activities to benefit the community. how much income the lottery
Construct viable arguments and They measure each section of the current area, would need to generate to
critique the reasoning of others propose design changes, and negotiate with one meet its goals, how much to charge
another on such questions as: whether to enlarge for lottery tickets in order to meet income
Model with mathematics a soccer field; whether to transform a tennis goals, how many winning tickets to offer, and
court into a paved space for young children how much to pay out for each winning ticket.
to ride on tricycles; how to improve drainage Students consider how to make the lottery
to create enough space to add a basketball worthwhile for individual ticket purchasers,
hoop; or how to create an area that would be calculate the odds of winning, and compute
fun for doing skateboard tricks. Students also the lotterys value for people who regularly
research the costs of various proposals and buy tickets. They investigate the reasons why
try to minimize costs. Once students reach people purchase lottery tickets and debate
a consensus on the overall plan and the ethics of introducing a lottery. Students
compute necessary dimensions, they create informative posters or a website/wiki
divide up the work of creating a to educate other students about the long-term
scale model of the new design. expected value of lotteries.
One team of students creates a
two-dimensional scale drawing
based on actual measurements of
the existing space; another team uses
materials such as cardboard, wood, and
fabric to create items such as goal posts,
playground equipment, also sized to scale.
They display the scale model in a central location
at the school or in a community building.
Leadership and Responsibility (continued)

OUTCOME: Students consider the ethical implications of mathematically-based decisions.
EXAMPLE: Students work in small groups in EXAMPLE: Students investigate EXAMPLE: Students examine
which each team represents a company that the equal proportions method situations involving systemic
derives its profits from the extraction or use of currently used to determine how riskin which a company,
natural resources. For example, one group might U.S. congressional districts are a government, or other
act as a large farm in an arid area of the Southwest allocated. They examine how the organization has grown too
that uses scarce water resources for irrigation. number of congressional districts (and big to fail because its failure
Another might be a real estate developer in a hence, the number of U.S. Representatives) in a would cause other companies or
fragile coastal area, or an oil company that drills state can increase or decrease as districts are organizations to face hardship
beneath the deep sea. Each group plays the role reapportioned after each decennial census. or collapse, or would cause too
of the companys board of directors and tries many people to panic. Students
to come up with ethical policies for balancing Then, students look at the mathematics of how look at how leaders of large companies such
profit and operation costs with social equity and states redraw the boundaries between federal as investment banks have taken advantage
environmental sustainability. Each group presents congressional districts in a process that occurs of such a situation by taking risks that bring
its policy proposals to the class. after the number of districts in the state rises or financial gain to the company even if those
falls. This process is known as redistricting. risks undermine the security of the community,
the country, or the world economy. Students
Next, students look at how their own states propose ways to limit systemic risk.
total number of federal congressional districts
has been determined, based on U.S. Census
data, and changes based on the 2010 Census.
Students examine how U.S. congressional
district boundaries are drawn in their state.
Working in small groups, students identify legal
or ethical issues that have arisen. For example, a
redistricting plan might have affected the voting
representation of a particular minority population.
Credits
C O N T R I B U TO R S : P 2 1 P RO J E C T M A N A G E R S :
P21 wishes to thank the following individuals for their Timothy J. Magner,
significant contributions in creating, drafting, and reviewing Executive Director, P21
this document:
Joseph Bishop, PhD,
Director of Strategic Initiatives, P21
Susan Saltrick
Founder, Proteus Consulting Tatyana Varshavsky,
Media & Communications Coordinator, P21
Roxana Hadad
Director of Math, Science, and Technology at Northeastern
Illinois University's Chicago Teacher's Center
Michael Pearson
Executive Director, MAA
Charles Fadel
Founder and chairman, Center for Curriculum Redesign
Bob Regan
Director of Product Development, Common Core,
Pearson Foundation
Jim Wynn
Chief Learning Officer, Promethean
Additional thanks go to the educators who attended the

P21 Math Map session at ISTE 2011 and provided invaluable
suggestions and comments.

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21st Century Skills Map

DESIGNED IN COOPERATION W I T H T H E N AT I O N ' S M AT H E D U C ATO R S

> Go to Contents Page

Creativity and Innovation

Creativity and Innovation (continued)

1. Solve exercises (standard solutions)

Then students divide into two teams: the

Creativity and Innovation (continued)

Creativity and Innovation (continued)

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving (continued)

Students try to determine how the alternative

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving (continued)

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving (continued)

Students compare the three outcomes and talk

Communication & Collaboration

Communication & Collaboration (continued)

Communication & Collaboration (continued)

Communication & Collaboration (continued)

to determine how to best control traffic flow

Information Literacy (continued)

Information Literacy (continued)

Media Literacy (continued)

Item Service Fat per Daily Estimated Estimated Estimated

Salad 2 Tbsp 11 grams 17% 1/2 servings 5.5 grams 8.5%

Media Literacy (continued)

EXAMPLE: Students create a class list showing

Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT) Literacy

Information, Communications, and Technology (ICT) Literacy (continued)

Flexibility and Adaptability

Initiative and Self-Direction

Initiative and Self-Direction (continued)

Social and Cross-Cultural Skills

Social and Cross-Cultural Skills (continued)

Productivity and Accountability

Leadership and Responsibility

Leadership and Responsibility (continued)

OUTCOME: Students consider the ethical implications of mathematically-based decisions.

Additional thanks go to the educators who attended the

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