Creating a Middle School Mathematics Curriculum for English-Language Learners

Abstract

Hispanic English-language learners and other students learning English are failing in K–12 mathematics. The field has not responded with mathematics curricula designed for this population, especially at the middle grades. In response to this academic crisis, the Help with English Language Proficiency (HELP) Math program for middle school students was created. HELP Math is a Web-based supplemental curriculum composed of a series of rich interactive lessons that essentialize mathematical vocabulary and academic concepts so that students can better understand the content. As a vehicle for informing the field about designing mathematics curricula specifically for this population of students, the authors track the journey from conceptualization through research and implementation of this supplemental curriculum, with a particular focus on the key challenges and lessons learned.