Math Pathways & Pitfalls® works well with diverse learners in urban, rural, and suburban settings because it is based on solid research. Rigorous scientific studies have shown the program’s effectiveness. Important findings include significant improvements in
- math learning for all types of students (including on standardized tests);
- learning math vocabulary and language skills; and
- achievement for multilingual learners (on standardized math tests given in English).
Why Math Pathways & Pitfalls Works: The Science
Math Pathways & Pitfalls draws on a wide range of theory and research on children’s mathematical thinking, academic language development, and effective instructional practices. The following sections describe the key research-based features of the program followed by a selected list of references.
Math Pathways & Pitfalls…
- Turns Pitfalls Into Pathways for Learning
- Addresses Multiple Modalities
- Provides Word Problems and Symbolic Problems
- Develops Mathematical Language
- Prompts a Metacognitive and Proactive Stance Toward Learning
- Incorporates Tools for Professional Learning and Lesson Study
What Research Shows About Math Pathways & Pitfalls
Two major national studies have tested how well Math Pathways & Pitfalls works in real classrooms. The first study (2000–2005) examined the program’s impact on students’ mathematics achievement. The second study (2005–2010) measured both math achievement and mathematical language development. focusing specifically on schools with high concentrations of Latino/a students and multilingual learners. Together, these randomized trials provide strong evidence for the program’s effectiveness across diverse student populations.
Beyond the large-scale trials, four additional studies used classroom observations and detailed analysis to understand how and why Math Pathways & Pitfalls creates positive changes. These studies examined everything, including how teachers transfer the program’s methods to their regular instruction, how bilingual and elementary students engage with mathematical discussions, and how English learners face specific language challenges on math tests. This deeper research helps explain not just that the program works but how it transforms classroom teaching and learning.
Keep Exploring:
“I really like the thinking process that Math Pathways & Pitfalls lessons engender. It is a skill I feel will help kids in all academic areas as well as their everyday lives. It also gives them confidence that their ideas have value. I was surprised by the depth of responses and discussions that emerged from the discussions. Students were really taking risks and opening up some really ‘heady’ issues.”
—Grade 5 Teacher