Illustrative Mathematics (IM) is a non-profit organization committed to helping students succeed in math through high-quality, problem-based core curricula. IM also provides teachers with certified professional learning opportunities to support their instruction.
IM 6–8 Math certified by Illustrative Mathematics is a complete mathematics curriculum for grades 6–8. The IM certified Math curriculum framework uses problem-based instruction to empower students to learn math through problem solving. Teachers are able to ensure that students understand problems by asking questions to advance students’ thinking, orchestrating productive discussions, and synthesizing learning at the end of activities and lessons. With formative assessment, teachers can build on students’ existing skills and knowledge to guide their planning and instruction.
The curriculum helps students develop conceptual understanding and procedural fluency through systematic instruction and ongoing practice. Students are able to apply mathematics and create connections to real-world contexts through the materials. The variety of tasks throughout the curriculum serve different purposes, including introducing new concepts, providing context, formalizing definitions for terms, resolving common mistakes, and more.
IM 6–8 Math is part of IM K–12 Math certified by Illustrative Mathematics which also includes IM K–5 Math beta and IM 9–12 Math. IM Certified curricula are delivered exclusively by IM Certified Distribution Partners who offer a freely available option as well as enhanced digital and print formats to meet the diverse needs of districts. IM curricula are built around focus, coherence, and rigor, and fully aligned to college and career-ready standards to prepare students for success with mathematics.
Formats:
IM 6–8 Math certified by Illustrative Mathematics is available in both print and digital formats.
Primary website’s URL:
https://www.illustrativemathematics.org/curriculum/im-6-8-math-curriculum/
Problem solved:
IM 6–8 Math certified by Illustrative Mathematics is a problem-based core mathematics curriculum that sparks discussion and enjoyment of mathematics. Students learn by doing math, solving problems in mathematical and real-world contexts, and constructing arguments using precise language. With this curriculum, teachers can shift their instruction and facilitate student learning with high-leverage routines that guide learners in understanding and making connections between concepts and procedures.
IM 6–8 Math also meets expectations across all three review categories — focus and coherence, rigor and mathematical practices, and usability — at EdReports.org, an independent nonprofit that reviews K–12 curricula for standards alignment and quality. It supports teachers in the use of research-based instructional routines to successfully facilitate student learning. It also includes teacher tools and accessibility for students with disabilities, and teacher and student supports for English learners.
Grade/age range:
The IM 6–8 Math Curriculum enables students in grades 6–8 to learn mathematics.
Standards:
IM 6–8 Math is a standards-aligned, research-based curriculum designed to meet the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics. IM Certified Professional Learning is deeply integrated with the IM 6–8 Math curriculum and is developed and continuously refined by the curriculum’s authors to ensure high-quality professional learning experiences for mathematics educators. IM was founded by Dr. William G. McCallum, a Distinguished Professor of Mathematics and one of the lead writers for the Common Core State Standards in Mathematics.
Lesson time needed:
60 minutes
Pricing model(s):
IM Certified curricula are available exclusively via IM Certified Distribution Partners. These partners give the IM authors oversight of their IM curricula to ensure they have the rigor, structure, and coherence as developed by the IM authors. For flexibility and accessibility, multiple formats and platforms are available, including a freely available option as well as enhanced digital platforms and print formats that are available for a fee.
What makes Illustrative Mathematics unique?
Spark discussion, perseverance, and enjoyment of mathematics.
IM 6–8 Math is a problem-based core curriculum rooted in content and practice standards to foster learning and achievement for all. Students learn by doing math, solving problems in mathematical and real-world contexts, and constructing arguments using precise language. Teachers can shift their instruction and facilitate student learning with high-leverage routines that guide them in understanding and making connections between concepts and procedures.
Intentional lesson design that promotes mathematical growth.
IM 6–8 Math lessons are designed with a focus on independent, group, and whole-class instruction. This format builds mathematical understanding and fluency for all students. Teachers will also use Warm-ups and Cool-downs to help guide lesson pacing and planning.
Here’s what users are saying:
“One of the things that most stood out for me is that the IM 6–8 Math curriculum is built around real-world, task-based problems that students can really engage with. It encourages collaborative learning, and it includes routines that have become very popular in math education, such as Notice and Wonder and Which One Doesn’t Belong. Because those routines are already embedded in the curriculum, teachers don’t have to worry about adding something else to what they’re already doing.”
--Maggie Hackett, a grade 8 math teacher and the math and science director for Sunnyside Unified School District, Tucson, Arizona
