Unit 1: Teaching and Learning the Standards for Mathematical Practice

For All Learners, All the Time

In your review of the eight SMP, you may have noticed that each begins with the three words, “mathematically proficient students.” The practice standards define what it means for students to be mathematically proficient. Proficiency is a goal for ALL students, and the practice standards are for all students at all times, regardless of their abilities.

The SMP should be embedded in all mathematical activities — as an integral part of instruction, discussion, and investigation — not just during problem-solving sessions such as “Problem of the Day.”

Successful application of the SMP does not require that all eight SMP are in play at all times. There are logical connections that can be made within and across standards and these connections are shown through a structure described in the next section.