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Math in Focus: Randomized Control Trial (RCT), Grades 3–5

At a glance

  • Strong Evidence
  • Program: Math in Focus®: Singapore Math® by Marshall Cavendish®
  • Subject: Math
  • Report Type: Efficacy Study, Study Conducted by Third Party
  • Grade Level: Elementary
  • Region: West
  • District Urbanicity: Urban, Suburban, Rural
  • District Size: Large
  • Participants: N=2,067
  • Outcome Measure: SAT-10™: Math Problem Solving; SAT-10 Procedures; Nevada Criterion-Referenced Test—Math
  • District: Clark County School District
  • Evaluation Period: 2011–2012
  • Study Conducted by: Empirical Education, Inc.

Abstract

Empirical Education Inc. conducted a one-year randomized control trial (RCT) aimed at producing evidence of the effectiveness of Math in Focus. During the 2011–2012 school year, 22 Grade 3, 4, and 5 classrooms were randomized to determine if they would implement Math in Focus or continue with their “business as usual” curriculum. Results showed an increase in students’ conceptual understanding, as well as increased student confidence and engagement while explaining and solving math problems. There was a positive effect of the program on Math in Focus students’ problem-solving skills. This report also includes results from qualitative measures examining this first year of a Math in Focus implementation.