enVisionMath A/G/A
2024

enVisionMath A/G/A

Publisher
Savvas Learning Company
Subject
Math
Grades
HS
Report Release
10/09/2024
Review Tool Version
v1.5
Format
Core: Comprehensive

EdReports reviews determine if a program meets, partially meets, or does not meet expectations for alignment to college and career-ready standards. This rating reflects the overall series average.

Alignment (Gateway 1 & 2)
Meets Expectations

Materials must meet expectations for standards alignment in order to be reviewed for usability. This rating reflects the overall series average.

Usability (Gateway 3)
Meets Expectations
Our Review Process

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About This Report

Report for High School

Alignment Summary

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for alignment to the CCSSM for high school. In Gateway 1, the materials meet expectations for focus and coherence. In Gateway 2, the materials meet expectations for rigor and practice-content connections.

High School
Alignment (Gateway 1 & 2)
Meets Expectations
Gateway 3

Usability

25/27
0
17
24
27
Usability (Gateway 3)
Meets Expectations
Overview of Gateway 1

Focus & Coherence

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for Focus and Coherence. The materials meet expectations for: attending to the full intent of the mathematical content for all students; spending the majority of time on content widely applicable as prerequisites; allowing students to fully learn each standard; engaging students in mathematics at a level of sophistication appropriate to high school; and making meaningful connections in a single course and throughout the series; and explicitly identifying and building on knowledge from Grades 6-8 to the high school standards. The materials partially meet expectations for attending to the full intent of the modeling process.

Gateway 1
v1.5
Meets Expectations

Criterion 1.1: Focus and Coherence

17/18

Materials are coherent and consistent with “the high school standards that specify the mathematics which all students should study in order to be college and career ready” (p. 57 CCSSM).

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for Focus and Coherence. The materials meet expectations for: attending to the full intent of the mathematical content for all students; spending the majority of time on content widely applicable as prerequisites; allowing students to fully learn each standard; engaging students in mathematics at a level of sophistication appropriate to high school; and making meaningful connections in a single course and throughout the series; and explicitly identifying and building on knowledge from Grades 6-8 to the high school standards. The materials partially meet expectations for attending to the full intent of the modeling process.

Indicator 1A
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Materials focus on the high school standards.

Indicator 1A.i
04/04

Materials attend to the full intent of the mathematical content contained in the high school standards for all students.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for attending to the full intent of the mathematical content contained in the high school standards for all students. All aspects of all-nonplus standards are addressed by the instructional materials of the series. 

Examples of non-plus standards that are fully addressed in this series include:

  • N-CN.1: In Algebra 2, Topic 2, Lesson 2-4, students are introduced to imaginary numbers as a solution to a quadratic equation with no real roots and learn that complex numbers are identified in the form a+bi.

  • A-APR.3: In Algebra 1, Topic 9, Lesson 9-2, students are tasked with factoring polynomials to identify the zeros and then using those zeros to construct a graph of the polynomial. In Algebra 2, Topic 2, Lesson 2-3, students solve word problems by finding zeros of a quadratic function by factoring.

  • A-REI.10: In Algebra 1, Topic 2, Lesson 2-3, students use tables and equations to understand that the graph of an equation in two variables is the set of all its solutions plotted in the coordinate plane.

  • A-REI.10: In Algebra 1, Topic 2, Lesson 2-3, students complete a table of values for a linear equation and graph the line through the points, demonstrating an understanding of the connection between the solutions to the equation and the graph. They extend that understanding by finding another solution using their graph and checking that point algebraically. 

  • F-IF.6: In Algebra 1, Topic 5, Lesson 5-1, Topic 8, Lesson 8-1, and Topic 10, Lesson 10-1, students calculate and interpret the average rate of change for absolute value, quadratic, and square root functions over a specified interval. In Algebra 2, Topic 3, Lesson 3-1, students compare the average rate of change of a polynomial function over different intervals. 

  • F-TF.8: In Algebra 2, Topic 7, Lesson 7-2, students use the Pythagorean Theorem with right triangles on the unit circle in various quadrants to derive the trigonometric functions and are asked to prove the Pythagorean identity.

  • G-CO.12: In Geometry, Topic 1, Lessons 1-2, students make formal geometric constructions. In Topic 2, Lessons 2-2, students construct a line parallel to a given line through a point not on the line, and in Topic 5, Lessons 5-1, they construct a perpendicular bisector.

  • G-SRT.7: In Geometry, Topic 8, Lesson 8-2, students explain and use the relationship between sine and cosine of complementary angles to find trigonometric ratios. 

  • S-ID.4: In Algebra 1, Topic 11, Lesson 11-2, students recognize that there are data sets for which a procedure is not appropriate. In Algebra 2, Topic 11, Lesson 11-4, students use the mean and standard deviation of a data set to fit it to a normal distribution and to estimate population percentages.

Indicator 1A.ii
01/02

Materials attend to the full intent of the modeling process when applied to the modeling standards.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A partially meet expectations for attending to the full intent of the modeling process when applied to the modeling standards. The materials omit the full intent of the modeling process for more than a few modeling standards across the courses of the series. 

Each topic in the enVisionMath A/G/A series contains “Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts” and STEM projects. In each lesson, students are posed a problem, usually by watching a video. Students develop questions of their own, formulate a conjecture, and explain how they arrived at the conjecture. In most of the tasks, the needed information is not given, and students determine what information is essential. Students compute a solution for the problem and interpret their results. Students are guided through validating their conjecture and considering reasons why their answers might differ. Students engage in the full modeling process within the “Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts” and STEM projects. However, several modeling standards are not addressed within these components. 

Some of the modeling standards for which the full intent of the modeling process has been omitted include, but are not limited to:

  • N-Q.2: In Algebra 1, Topic 1, Lesson 1-3, Problem 45, students work on a performance task in which two individuals paint a wall. Although students determine when the painters have painted the same amount, they are not given the opportunity to create a conjecture and defend it as the rates are provided.

  • A-SSE.1a: In Algebra 1, Topic 7, Lesson 7-5, Problem 37, students use a quadratic expression to represent the area of a rectangular swimming space. Students do not formulate their own model as it is given and are told to factor the expression to determine possible dimensions of the swimming space. 

  • A-SSE.3c: In Algebra 2, Topic 6, Lesson 6-2, Problem 25, students explain how a function could be rewritten to find a particular decay rate. Students do not have the opportunity to create their own models as they are told to rewrite an exponential growth function as part of their explanation. 

  • G-MG.2: In Geometry, Topic 11, Lesson 11-2, Performance Task, Problem 27, students are given information on making candles and prompted to determine the smallest box that can be used to package a specific order of candles. Then, students are tasked with finding the volume of packing paper needed for the order. Students do not have opportunities to choose variables as the dimensions of each candle and box are presented.

  • F-IF.5: In Algebra 1, Topic 8, Lesson 8-1, students identify key features of a quadratic function. There are several application problems for students to practice determining the average rate of change over a specific interval. However, students do not interpret or evaluate the solutions. The questions do not provide multiple access points or various solutions. 

  • F-IF.6: In Algebra 2, Topic 1, Lesson 1-1, students explain the meaning of the rate of change in the context of students jumping. Students do not have opportunities to choose variables, as the variables are identified for them.

  • S-ID.6b: In Algebra 1, Topic 3, Lesson 3-6, students graph residuals from a linear model of data, and in Lesson 8-4, students graph residuals from a quadratic model of data. Students do not complete the entire modeling process with this standard. In both lessons, students work with residuals in context, but students do not validate models or analyze results. 

Examples where the materials intentionally develop the full intent of the modeling process across the series to address modeling standards include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 2, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, students are presented with a situation in which height is measured in unconventional ways. Students watch a video that shows the height of a basketball player in terms of various objects. Students see a stack of cups being built next to him. As students attempt to figure out the basketball player’s height in foam cups, they have to formulate what information they would need. Data about smaller stacks of cups is given. Students utilize the information previously taught about linear functions. When students develop a plan, they complete computations. After they compute, students validate their findings when they view the final video which shows all the cups falling into place. Students report their findings compared to the final solution. (A-CED.1, A-CED.3 and A-CED.4)

  • In Geometry, Topic 11, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, students explore and apply concepts related to surface area and volume. Students are presented with different packaging options for candles, and tasked with determining the packaging option with the least surface area for a constant volume. Students watch a video that shows 24 individually boxed candles. The smaller boxes are then packed inside one cardboard box. Students determine the dimensions of the package that has the least surface area. Students formulate a solution as they speculate how they could analyze the differences in surface area among the packages to find the one with the least surface area. Students compute a solution and think strategically to make sure they have found every possible set of dimensions for the packaging. They validate their results with each other to include ones not seen in the video. The final video shows the dimensions and surface area of each box. Students approach this solution using a variety of methods and report to each other. (G-GMD.3 and G-GMD.4)

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 6, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, students explore and apply concepts related to exponential equations and functions. Students watch a video of an athlete performing a running drill. They extrapolate both the time and distance for a certain round of the drill. Students formulate how to determine how far the athlete runs in the twentieth round and how long it will take. Students determine what information they need and consider how their ideas might relate to exponential functions. Students interpret their findings, validate them with each other, and view the final video, which reveals the total time and distance. Students report their findings compared to the final solution. (F-LE.5 and S-ID.6a)

Indicator 1B
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Materials provide students with opportunities to work with all high school standards and do not distract students with prerequisite or additional topics.

Indicator 1B.i
02/02

Materials, when used as designed, allow students to spend the majority of their time on the content from CCSSM widely applicable as prerequisites for a range of college majors, postsecondary programs, and careers.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for, when used as designed, allowing students to spend the majority of their time on the content from CCSSM widely applicable as prerequisites for a range of college majors, postsecondary programs, and careers. Overall, the majority of the Algebra 1 materials address the WAPs, the Geometry materials provide a fairly even split between the WAPs and additional Geometry non-plus standards, and the Algebra 2 materials spend about 20% of the time extending the understanding of the WAPs and the rest further developing the other non-plus and plus standards. 

Examples of how the materials allow students to spend the majority of their time on the WAPs include, but are not limited to:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 1, students solve linear equations and inequalities. In Topic 9 and Algebra 2, Topic 2, students solve quadratic equations in one variable through graphing and completing the square (A-REI.B).

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 3, students determine whether a relation is a function by exploring domain and range (F-IF.A). In Algebra 2, Topic 1, students learn about the key features, and transformations of functions, while also applying functions to arithmetic sequences and series (F-IF.A and F-IF.B). In this topic, students also solve and create linear equations, inequalities, and systems (A-CED.A, A-REI.C, and A-REI.D). In Topic 2, students learn about the various forms of a quadratic function and explore procedures for finding solutions (A-CED.A, A-REI.B F-IF.B, and F-BF.B). In Topic 3, students learn about graphing and performing operations on polynomial functions (A-SSE.A, A-APR.A, F-IF.B, and F-IF.C). In Topic 4, students learn about how to graph rational functions, multiply, divide, add and subtract rational expressions, and solve rational equations (A-SSE.A, A-APR.D, and A-CED.A). 

  • In Geometry, Topic 1, Lesson 1-7, students prove angle relationships within perpendicular lines using the transitive property of congruence. In Topic 2, Lesson 2-3, students use their knowledge of the linear pair postulate and exterior angle theorem to find the value of an angle that exists outside of a triangle. In Topic 6, Lesson 6-3, students find the lengths of two line segments using knowledge of vertical angles, alternate interior angles, and corresponding angles. (G-CO.C)

  • In Geometry, Topic 8, students use the right triangle trigonometry ratios to prove the Pythagorean Theorem. They use special right triangle relationships to solve right triangles from real-world scenarios. In Lesson 8-5, students apply right triangle trigonometry in scenarios of angle elevation and depression. (G-SRT.C)  

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 11, Lesson 11-3, students find measures of center and spread, such as median, mean, interquartile range, and standard deviation, and compare data sets using statistical measures appropriate for the data's distribution (S-ID.A and S-IC.A).  

Indicator 1B.ii
04/04

Materials, when used as designed, allow students to fully learn each standard.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for, when used as designed, allowing students to fully learn each non-plus standard. However, the instructional materials, when used as designed, do not enable students to learn a few of the non-plus standards. 

The non-plus standards that would not be fully learned by students across the series include:

  • N-Q.3: In Algebra 1, Topic 1, Lesson 1-1, students decide which of three approximately equal numbers is most accurate and which is most appropriate given the context. In Topic 6, Lesson 6-4, students determine whether a set of data suggests linear or exponential growth. Students are not given sufficient opportunities to practice using a level of accuracy when reporting quantities throughout the series. 

  • A-SSE.3c: In Algebra 1, Topic 6,  Lesson 6-1, Example 5, students use the Product of Powers Property to solve equations with rational exponents. In Algebra 2, Topic 6, Lesson 6-2, Example 1, students rewrite an exponential function to identify a rate. Students are not given sufficient opportunities to demonstrate this understanding outside of examples. 

  • F-LE.1a: In Algebra 1, Topic 6, Lesson 6-3, students compare how the linear function y = 3x grows over x with how the function y = 3x grows over the same values. The materials prove that linear functions grow by equal differences and that exponential functions grow by equal factors, but there is no opportunity for students to derive the proof on their own.

  • F-LE.3: In Algebra 1, Topic 8, Lesson 8-5, students compare linear, exponential, and quadratic graphs to determine which function will exceed the others in Example 3. Students are not given sufficient opportunities to demonstrate this understanding outside of examples. 

  • G-GMD.1: In Geometry, Topic 11, Lesson 11-2, students use the properties of prisms and cylinders to calculate volume. However, students do not use dissection arguments and informal limits to fully learn this standard.

Indicator 1C
02/02

Materials require students to engage in mathematics at a level of sophistication appropriate to high school.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for requiring students to engage in mathematics at a level of sophistication appropriate to high school. The materials regularly use age-appropriate contexts, use various types of real numbers, and provide opportunities for students to apply key takeaways from Grades 6-8. 

Examples where the materials illustrate age-appropriate contexts for high school students include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 4, Lesson 4-3, students use systems of equations to determine the cost of a charter bus based on two field trip scenarios.

  • In Geometry, Topic 2, Lesson 2-2, students use properties of parallel lines and transversals to solve a problem involving a downhill skier maximizing their speed through a gate. 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 2, students write quadratics in various forms, identify key features, find zeros, and solve by all methods in contexts, including projectile motion in sports (soccer kicks, baseball hits, volleyball serves, golf swings, water balloons, catapults), jumps, dives, drone heights, and profit functions (e.g. tuition profit, sales profit). 

Examples where the materials allow students to engage in the use of various types of real numbers include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 4, Lesson 4-2, students solve problems involving a lawn-mowing business and surfing lessons requiring students to manipulate and make sense of decimal answers. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 8, Lesson 8-1, students use rational and irrational numbers when finding missing side lengths of right triangles. 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 3, Lesson 3-5, students find the zeros of polynomial functions, solutions include rational values, irrational values, and imaginary numbers. 

Examples where the materials provide opportunities for students to apply key takeaways from Grades 6-8 include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 4, Lesson 4-5, students write and graph systems of linear inequalities as constraints for application-style questions (A-CED.3). These exercises build on solving and graphing solutions for inequality word problems with one variable (7.EE.4).  

  • In Geometry, Topic 3, students apply their understanding of congruence and similarity through rotations, reflections, translations, and dilations (8.G.2) to learn about compositions of rigid motions and the effects on congruence (G-CO.6).

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 5, students solve and graph radical equations in one variable and demonstrate an understanding of extraneous solutions (A-REI.2 and F-IF.7). Students are building evaluating square roots of small perfect squares to represent solutions to equations (8.EE.2). 

Indicator 1D
02/02

Materials are mathematically coherent and make meaningful connections in a single course and throughout the series, where appropriate and where required by the Standards.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for being mathematically coherent and making meaningful connections in a single course and throughout the series, where appropriate and where required by the Standards. 

Examples where the materials foster coherence within a single course include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 2, students write equations of linear functions given two points, a point, a slope, and a real-world description (A-CED.2). In Topic 4, students apply this skill to solving systems of linear equations, focusing on pairs of linear equations in two variables (A-REI.6).

  • In Geometry, Topic 6, Lesson 6-3, students use congruence and similarity criteria for triangles (G-SRT.5) to prove theorems about parallelograms (G-CO.11). 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 2, Lesson 2-5, the materials connect completing the square to find the maximum or minimum (A-SSE.3b) with graphing a quadratic function to show intercepts, maxima, and minima (F-IF.7a). 

Examples where the materials foster coherence across courses include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 2, Lesson 2-4, students determine whether there is enough information to prove that two lines are parallel or perpendicular (G-GPE.5). In Geometry, Topic 6, Lessons 6-4 and 6-5 students use these skills to prove characteristics of quadrilaterals, including proving that a quadrilateral is a parallelogram (G-CO.11 and G-SRT.5). 

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 11, Lessons 11-1, 11-2, and 11-3, students study data displays, center and variability, and histograms. In Geometry, Topic 12, students use histograms to display probability distributions and relative frequencies to conditional probability. In Algebra 2, Topic 11, students develop an understanding of statistical questions, hypothesis testing, random sampling methods, distribution of data sets, comparison of data values, and population parameters. In Topic 12, students develop an understanding of probability, conditional probability, and probability distributions (S-ID.A, S-ID.B, S.IC-A and S-IC.B). 

  •  In Algebra 1, Topic 9, students solve quadratic equations by completing the square, factoring, and using the quadratic formula. In Algebra 2, Topic 2, students use their knowledge of factoring to factor higher degree polynomials and solve equations that have complex solutions (N-CN.7, A-SSE.3a, A-SSE.3b, A-APR.3 and A-REI.4b). 

Indicator 1E
02/02

Materials explicitly identify and build on knowledge from Grades 6-8 to the high school standards.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for explicitly identifying and building on knowledge from grades 6-8 to the High School Standards. The materials explicitly identify the standards from grades 6-8 in the Math Background Coherence section for each topic in the Teacher’s Edition. This information appears routinely in the design of the teacher materials but not in the student and family materials.

Examples where the teacher materials explicitly identify content from Grades 6-8 and build on them include: 

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 1, Lesson 1-6, students build on their knowledge of solving inequalities in the form px+q>rpx+q>r or px+q<rpx+q<r (7.EE.4b) by creating, solving, and graphing compound inequalities (A-CED.1 and A-REI.3)

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 1, students build on their knowledge of one variable inequalities (7.EE.4b) in Lessons 1-5 and 1-6 by solving and graphing compound and absolute value inequalities (A-REI.3).

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 3,  students extend their exploration of linear, nonlinear, and the key features of linear functions (8.F.1, 8.F.2, and 8.F.4) by determining the domain and range of a linear function, writing linear function rules, and transforming linear functions. (F-IF.1, F-IF.2, F-IF.5, and F.BF.3).

  • In Geometry, Topic 12, students examine probabilities of multiple-outcome events (S-CP.6 and S-CP.7) to expand on an understanding of basic theoretical and experimental probability (7.SP.6 and 7.SP.7).

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 11, students use box plots and histograms to evaluate data distributions and determine the shape of the graph, find the standard deviation, and interpret data to determine if the data is skewed and/or has outliers (S-ID.A) to build on their knowledge of using dot plots, box plots, and histograms to represent data and find measures of central tendency (6.SP.2 and 6.SP.4).n

Indicator 1F
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The plus (+) standards, when included, are explicitly identified and coherently support the mathematics which all students should study in order to be college and career ready.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A explicitly identify the plus (+) standards, when included, and coherently support the mathematics which all students should study in order to be college and career ready. 

The teacher editions explicitly identify the plus standards. At the beginning of each lesson, there is a section called Mathematics Overview that lists the Content and Practice Standards addressed in that lesson. All plus standards are identified with the (+) symbol. The (+) standards are explicitly identified in the materials and coherently support the mathematics that all students should study to be college—and career-ready. 

The (+) standards that are fully addressed include:

  • N-CN.3: In Algebra 2, Topic 2, Lesson 2-4, students are introduced to complex conjugates and then find the quotients of complex numbers. In Lesson 8-4, students find the modulus of a complex number.

  • N-CN.4: In Algebra 2, Topic 8, Lesson 8-5 uses the polar form of complex numbers to calculate products and powers. Students also explain the relationship between rectangular and polar forms of complex numbers.

  • N-CN.5: In Algebra 2, Topic 8, Lessons 8-4 and 8-5, students use the complex plane to show complex numbers and their operations.

  • N-CN.6: In Algebra 2, Topic 8, Lesson 8-4, students find the distance and midpoint between two complex numbers.

  • N-CN.8,9: In Algebra 2, Topic 3, Lesson 3-6 states the Rational Root Theorem, the Fundamental Root Theorem, and the Conjugate Root Theorem. Students use the roots of a polynomial equation to find other roots, including complex roots.

  • N-VM.1-5: In Algebra 2, Topic 10, Lesson 10-3, students find the magnitude and the direction of vector quantities. Students interpret and use vectors for addition, subtraction, and scalar multiplication, and they are presented with application problems involving vectors. Students solve problems involving velocity, such as the course of a flying plane and the speed of a thrown ball.

  • N-VM.6-8: In Algebra 2, Topic 10, Lesson 10-1, students use matrices to represent data such as inventory of a store and data from races, and they apply scalar multiplication to create a new matrix. Students also represent and manipulate data using matrices, multiply a matrix by a scalar, and add and subtract matrices. 

  • N-VM.9,10: In Algebra 2, Topic 10, Lesson 10-2, students examine the multiplication of squares matrices. They understand the Commutative Property does not hold for all square matrices, but the Distributive Property and the Identity Matrix do hold. In Lesson 4, students calculate the determinant and inverse of a 2 x 2  matrix.

  • N-VM.11: In Algebra 2, Topic 10,  Lesson 10-3, students use matrix multiplication to transform each vector by a given transformation.

  • N-VM.12: In Algebra 2, Topic 10, Lesson 10-1, students translate and dilate figures using matrices. In Lesson 10-4, students work with finding the determinant of a 2 x 2 matrix and recognize they must take the absolute value of the determinant when calculating an area.

  • A-APR.5: In Algebra 2, Topic 3, Lesson 3-3, Problems 54 - 65, students apply the Binomial Theorem to expand expressions.

  • A-APR.7: In Algebra 2, Topic 4, Lessons 4-3 and 4-4, students add, subtract, multiply and divide rational expressions. Students also have an introduction to the closure of these operations in Lesson 4-4.

  • A-REI.8: In Algebra 2, Topic 10, Lesson 10-5, students use matrices to represent a system of equations.

  • A-REI.9: In Algebra 2, Topic 10, Lesson 10-4, students find the inverse of a matrix, and in Lesson 10-5, they use the inverse of a matrix to solve a system of linear equations. 

  • F-BF.1c: In Algebra 2, Topic 5, Lesson 5-5, students practice combining functions by adding, subtracting, and multiplying, and they also compose functions.

  • F-BF.4b: In Algebra 2, Topic 5, Lesson 5-6, students prove two functions are inverses using compositions.

  • F-BF.4c: In Algebra 2, Topic 6, Lesson 6-4, Problem 8, students use values from two tables of the form y = 2 xy = log2x to verify that the functions are inverses.

  • F-BF.4d: In Algebra 2, Topic 5, Lesson 5-6, Problems 22 - 25, students identify appropriate restrictions on domains to make inverse functions.

  • F-BF.5: In Algebra 2, Topic 6, Lesson 6-3 contains several examples showing how to solve exponential equations by converting to logarithmic form. In Lesson 6-6, students solve exponential equations by taking the logarithm of both sides.

  • F-TF.3: In Algebra 2, Topic 7, Lesson 7-1, students investigate special right triangles and how to find the trigonometric ratios for these special angles. In Lesson 7-2, students are introduced to the unit circle and radian measure, and in Lesson 7-3, students use the unit circle, radian measure, special right triangles, and reference angles to find the values of sine, cosine, and tangent for radian measures around the unit circle.

  • F-TF.4: In Algebra 2, Topic 7, Lesson 7-4, students analyze the periodicity of trigonometric functions. Lesson 8-3 shows why the sine function is an odd function; in Problem 2, students determine if the cosine function is an even or odd function.                                                                  

  • F-TF.6: In Algebra 2, Topic 8, Lesson 8-1, Problem 12, students communicate the process of restricting the domain of the graph of y=sin x and  y=cos x to result in an inverse.        

  • F-TF.7: In Algebra 2, Topic 8, Lesson 8-1, students solve trigonometric equations using inverse trigonometric functions, including equations with real-world applications. Problem 33 provides the equation for a pendulum as it swings back and forth. Students solve for the variable t and subsequently determine the pendulum at a particular height for the first time using inverse trigonometric functions.  

  • F-TF.9: In Algebra 2, Topic 8, Lesson 8-3, Try It!, students prove the sum and difference formulas for sine using an understanding of the proof of the sum and difference formulas for cosine, and in Problems 25 and 26, students prove the sum and difference formulas for a tangent. 

  • G-SRT.9: In Geometry, Topic 5, Lesson 5-8, students derive the formula for the area of a triangle using sine and use the formula to find the area of a given triangle.

  • G-SRT.10: In Geometry, Topic 8, Lessons 8-3 and 8-4, students prove the Law of Sines and Cosines for acute triangles. In Algebra 2, Topic 8, Lesson 8-2, students prove the Law of Sines and Cosines with obtuse triangles. Students also use the Law of Sines and Cosines to solve problems.

  • G-SRT.11: In Geometry, Topic 8, Lessons 8-3 and 8-4, and Algebra 2, Topic 8, Lesson 8-2, students apply the Law of Sines and the Law of Cosines to find unknown measurements in right and non-right triangles.

  • G-C.4: In Geometry, Topic 10, Lesson 10-2, Problem 21, students construct a tangent line from a point outside a given circle.

  • G-GMD.2: In Geometry, Topic 11, Lesson 11-2, students use Cavalieri’s principle to solve a problem involving the volume of a cylinder, cone, and rectangular prism in Problems 12, 14, and 17. In Lesson 11-3, Problem 1, students restate the principal relating volumes of pyramids and cones, and in Problems 3 and 17, they apply their understanding. In Lesson 11-4, students develop a formula for the volume of a hemisphere using Cavalieri’s principle by subtracting the areas of corresponding sections of a cone from a cylinder. 

  • S-CP.8: In Geometry and Algebra 2, Topic 12, Lesson 12-2, students use conditional probability to solve problems and interpret the answers in terms of the model.

  • S-CP.9: In Geometry and Algebra 2, Topic 12, Lessons 12-3, 12-4, and 12-6, students use permutations and combinations to compute probabilities of compound events and solve problems.

  • S-MD.1: In Geometry and Algebra 2, Topic 12, Lesson 12-4, students use calculations and graphing techniques to define and graph a probability distribution.

  • S-MD.2-4: In Algebra 2, Topic 12, Lesson 12-5, students calculate expected values and connect them to probability distributions.

  • S-MD.5: In Geometry and Algebra 2, Topic 12, Lesson 12-5, students find expected payoffs and expected values within the contexts of restaurant sales, insurance policies, and warranty purchases.

  • S-MD.6: In Geometry and Algebra 2, Topic 12, Lesson 12-6, students use probability to determine the fairness of a game.

  • S-MD.7: In Geometry and Algebra 2, Topic 12, Lesson 12-6, students use probability concepts to analyze decisions and strategies in several activities throughout the unit. Students apply probability concepts to find solutions for the activities.

Plus standards that are partially addressed include:

  • F-IF.7d: In Algebra 2, Topic 4, Lessons 4-1 and 4-2, students find asymptotes of rational functions and graph rational functions by plotting the asymptotes and several points on either side of the asymptotes. Students are not asked to determine the zeros of a rational function.

  • G-GPE.3: In Algebra 2, Topic 9, Lesson 9-3, the equation of an ellipse is derived using the sum of the distances from the points (0, 5) and (0, -5) with foci at (0, 4) and (0, -4). The results are then stated in generalized form for the equation of an ellipse in “standard position” with its center at the origin and when the major axis is vertical or horizontal. In Algebra 2, Topic 9, Lesson 9-4, the equation of a hyperbola is derived using the difference of the distances from the points (-3, 0) and (3, 0) with foci at (-5, 0) and (5, 0). The results are then stated in generalized form for the equation of a hyperbola centered at the origin that opens horizontally or vertically. Students do not generalize their results to derive the general equation of an ellipse or a hyperbola.

Overview of Gateway 2

Rigor & Mathematical Practices

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for rigor and balance and practice-content connections. The materials reflect the balances in the Standards and help students develop conceptual understanding, procedural skill and fluency, and application. The materials make meaningful connections between the Standards for Mathematical Content and the Standards for Mathematical Practice (MPs).

Criterion 2.1: Rigor and Balance

08/08

Materials reflect the balances in the Standards and help students meet the Standards’ rigorous expectations, by giving appropriate attention to: developing students’ conceptual understanding; procedural skill and fluency; and engaging applications.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for Rigor and Balance. The materials meet expectations for providing students opportunities in developing conceptual understanding, procedural skills, and application, and the materials also meet expectations for balancing the three aspects of Rigor.

Indicator 2A
02/02

Materials support the intentional development of students’ conceptual understanding of key mathematical concepts, especially where called for in specific content standards or clusters.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for supporting the intentional development of students’ conceptual understanding of key mathematical concepts, especially where called for in specific content standards or clusters. Overall, the materials develop conceptual understanding throughout the series as well as provide opportunities for students to demonstrate conceptual understanding independently throughout the series. 

Examples across the series that develop conceptual understanding  include: 

  • A-REI.A: In Algebra 1, Topic 1, Lesson 1-2, students create and solve simple linear equations using various methods, including Algebra Tiles, while determining which operations are needed in the process. In Algebra 2, Topic 4, students build on this understanding by solving rational equations, analyzing and critiquing various methods, and checking for extraneous solutions. In Lesson 5-4, students solve equations with exponents and radicals both algebraically and graphically, looking for relationships between square roots and squaring. 

  • F-IF.4, F-BF.3, and F-TF.5: In Algebra 2, Topic 7, the materials provide multiple examples of the processes of graphing sine and cosine functions using the key features of the function—period/frequency, amplitude—including creating functions representative of real-world applications. In Lesson 7-4, students analyze shifts in sinusoidal graphs to develop functions based on the observed patterns of transformations. 

  • G-SRT.2: In Geometry, Topic 7, Lesson 7-2, the lesson starts with examining examples of student work. Students use appropriate tools to find if there is a composition of transformations that will map one figure onto another figure and tell what it is for each student if there is one. A follow-up question requires students to describe the relationship between two figures that the students have drawn. In addition, there are questions posed for the teacher in the teacher edition that promote reasoning and problem solving, such as, “Name different types of transformations and what is preserved with each type.” and “How might you use side length to help you determine whether there is a composition of transformations that maps one figure to the other?” Through these questions, students develop an understanding of a similarity transformation. Teachers are provided with questions to help students develop an understanding of the connection between congruence and similarity.

  • G-C.3: In Geometry, Topic 5, Lesson 5-2, students consider the relationship between the circumcenter of a triangle and a circumscribed circle of the triangle; they also consider the relationship between the incenter of a triangle and an inscribed circle of a triangle. In Practice & Problem Solving, students explain an error, explain reasoning, make a conjecture, justify their solution with a diagram, and explain their answer.

  • S-ID.7: In Algebra 1, Topic 2, Lesson 2-1, students create a linear equation from two data points and interpret its meaning in the context of the application, demonstrating an understanding of key mathematical concepts such as slope and intercepts.

Indicator 2B
02/02

Materials provide intentional opportunities for students to develop procedural skills and fluencies, especially where called for in specific content standards or clusters.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for providing intentional opportunities for students to develop procedural skills and fluencies, especially where called for in specific content standards or clusters. Opportunities for students to independently demonstrate procedural skills across the series are included in each lesson. The materials include a Practice and Problem Solving section, and Additional Skills Practices are available after each lesson.

Examples that show the development of procedural skills across the series include:

  • A-APR.1: In Algebra 1, Topic 7, Lesson 7-1, students are engaged in examples of simplifying, adding, and subtracting polynomials. For Problem 12, students write an expression to represent the surface area of a figure, demonstrating their ability to perform this skill. They also write additional non-contextual problems for students to become proficient in this procedural skill. 

  • A-APR.6: In Algebra 2, Topic 3, Lesson 3-4, students divide polynomial expressions using the process of long division and synthetic division, writing their answers in the form q(x)+r(x)/b(x)q(x) + r(x)/b(x) when applicable.

  • F-BF.3: Students transform various types of functions throughout the series. In Algebra 1, students transform linear, piecewise, absolute value, exponential, and quadratic functions. This skill is extended to higher degree polynomials and square root functions in Algebra 2, as well as logarithmic and trigonometric functions. Students are given multiple opportunities to practice this skill throughout the materials. 

  • G-CO.5: In Geometry, Topic 3, Lesson 3-2, students are given images or points before and after transformations on the coordinate plane and create the rule for the rigid motions that occurred. In Problem 11, students analyze the work of a hypothetical student to find the mistake when given a rule and their created image/preimage.

  • G-GPE.7: In Geometry, Topic 9, Lesson 9-1, students use coordinate geometry to classify triangles and quadrilaterals. Students solve problems with polygons on the coordinate plane. Students use the distance formula, the midpoint formula, and the slope formula to find the characteristics of polygons. Students use these formulas to compute the perimeters and areas of polygons.

Indicator 2C
02/02

Materials support the intentional development of students’ ability to utilize mathematical concepts and skills in engaging applications, especially where called for in specific content standards or clusters.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for supporting the intentional development of students’ ability to utilize mathematical concepts and skills in engaging applications, especially where called for in specific content standards or clusters. The materials include STEM Projects and Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts that can be found in each topic. These provide multiple opportunities for students to engage in routine and non-routine applications of mathematics throughout the series, including opportunities to independently demonstrate mathematical flexibility in a variety of contexts. 

The materials provide multiple opportunities for students to engage in the application of mathematics throughout the series. For example:

  • A-REI.11: In Algebra 1, Topic 4, Lesson 4-1, students solve systems of linear equations by graphing. The materials provide a graphing utility for students to find solutions using technology. Students are asked to verify their answers using substitution, applying an understanding of systems of equations. For Problem 24, students determine the week when two students will have the same amount of money based on a description of their saving habits.

  • F-IF.7e and F-IF.9: In Algebra 2, Topic 6, Lesson 6-1, students apply an understanding of exponential functions to problems involving population growth rates. For Problem 27, students create an exponential equation for a colony of bacteria and use their equation to predict the amount of bacteria in 5 days. 

  • G-SRT.8: In Geometry, Topic 8, Lesson 8-2, Problem 44, students analyze a scenario in which they are given the dimensions of a boom lift at a particular angle. They use those dimensions and trigonometric ratios to find the lift's missing dimensions and determine if it will reach the height of a building in another scenario. 

Examples that include opportunities for students to independently demonstrate the use of mathematics flexibly in a variety of contexts include:

  • N-RN.B: In Algebra 2, Topic 5, Lesson 5-2, Problem 16, students discuss the advantages and disadvantages of first rewriting an expression. “Communicate Precisely Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of first rewriting 27\sqrt{\smash[b]{27}} + 48\sqrt{\smash[b]{48}} + 147\sqrt{\smash[b]{147}} in order to estimate its decimal value.

  • G-MG.3: In Geometry, Topic 2, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, students use their knowledge of parallel and perpendicular lines to decide what it means for roads to be “paved correctly” and identify examples meeting their criteria. 

  • S-ID.2 and S-ID.3: In Algebra 1, Topic 11, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, students interpret characteristics of multiple data sets presented as Histograms, Dot Plots, and Box Plots, using their interpretations to make inferences about how many text messages a student will receive “tomorrow.”

Indicator 2D
02/02

The three aspects of rigor are not always treated together and are not always treated separately. The three aspects are balanced with respect to the standards being addressed.

The materials for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for the three aspects of rigor not always being treated together and not always being treated separately. The three aspects are balanced with respect to the standards being addressed. 

All three aspects of rigor are present independently throughout the program materials. Additionally, multiple aspects of rigor are engaged simultaneously to develop students’ mathematical understanding of a single topic/unit of study throughout the materials. Each topic in this series includes a Topic Opener, STEM Project, and Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts (which relates to the Topic Opener). Each lesson includes: Explore and Reason, Understand and Apply (which guides students through examples and problems to try on their own), Concept Summary, Practice and Problem Solving, and a formative quiz to determine understanding and mastery. This structure of the materials lends itself to balancing the three aspects of rigor. 

The following are examples of balancing the three aspects of rigor in the materials:

  • A-REI.2: In Algebra 2, Topic 4, Lesson 4-5, students integrate all aspects of rigor as they solve rational equations and investigate the presence of extraneous solutions. They connect the concept of the domain of rational functions to determining whether a solution is extraneous and critique the work of others who have already found such solutions. In the Practice & Problem Solving sections of the lesson, students develop procedural skills by solving both simple and more complex rational equations with and without extraneous solutions and further apply that understanding to real-world problems involving completion times when working together and distance, rate, and time with and without the help of a current. 

  • F-IF.2, F-IF.4, and F-LE.2: In Algebra 1, Topic 3, students explore linear functions. In the STEM Project, students investigate how recycling can offset carbon dioxide production. Students use linear functions to determine recycling rates by planning a recycling drive at their school to increase the amount of recycled trash. In Lessons 3-1-3-3, students develop procedural skills in using function notation, evaluating functions, graphing the lines described by functions, and graphing translations through applications, tables, and graphs. In Modeling in 3 Acts, students find a strategy for picking a checkout lane in the grocery store. In Lesson 3-6, students apply linear functions by representing arithmetic sequences, determining a linear function from a scatter plot, and analyzing trend lines. Students use linear functions to solve real-world problems, such as the time to download a given file size and the number of hybrid cars sold in America over 16 years. 

  • G-CO.8: In Geometry, Topic 4, students demonstrate a conceptual understanding of congruence by using their knowledge of rigid motions from the previous topic to show that two triangles are congruent and prove theorems about triangle congruence.  They develop procedural fluency and skill through practice mapping one triangle onto another, recognizing congruent parts of congruent triangles, and identifying the appropriate congruence theorem based on the given information. Throughout the topic, students apply their knowledge and skills to solve real-world and mathematical problems, for example, Problem 26 in Lesson 4-6, where students find the width of a quadrilateral created by two overlapping triangles using an understanding of congruent triangles.

  • G-SRT.5: In Geometry, Topic 7, STEM Project, students demonstrate conceptual understanding through application by using similarity to find the dimensions of an engine part while given the dimensions of a model of the part. Students calculate key values related to the 3D printing of the part and describe the steps for its production. Students extend their conceptual understanding of transformations to include dilations and develop the understanding that two figures are similar if a similarity transformation occurs. Students develop skills in identifying a series of transformations used in mappings and application problems (such as comparing blueprints to actual measurements, working with a surveying device to determine the distance from the lens to the target, and constructing supports for a roof), integrating all aspects of rigor.

  • S-ID.2 and S-ID.3: In Algebra 1, Topic 11, Lesson 11-2, students demonstrate all three levels of rigor by examining data sets in multiple representations. Students demonstrate a conceptual understanding of descriptive statistics in the Critique & Explain as they analyze the reasoning for given prices of various paintings in a gallery. Throughout the lesson and in the Practice & Problem Solving sections, students demonstrate procedural skills in obtaining a 5-number summary of data distribution and the effect of any outliers. Finally, students apply their knowledge by determining characteristics and constructing a display to compare and analyze data of two smart phone batteries in Problem 24.

Criterion 2.2: Practice-Content Connections

08/08

Materials meaningfully connect the Standards for Mathematical Content and Standards for Mathematical Practice (MPs).

The materials reviewed for the enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for practice-content connections. The materials meaningfully connect the Standards for Mathematical Content and the Standards for Mathematical Practice (MPs).

Indicator 2E
02/02

Materials support the intentional development of overarching, mathematical practices (MPs 1 and 6), in connection to the high school content standards, as required by the mathematical practice standards.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations that they support the intentional development of overarching mathematical practices (MPs 1 and 6) in connection to the high school content standards. Overall, MP1 and MP6 enrich the mathematical content and demonstrate the full intent of these mathematical practices across the series. The mathematical practices are identified in both the teacher and student editions. 

Examples of where and how the materials use MP1 to enrich the mathematical content and demonstrate the full intent of the mathematical practices include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 5, Lesson 5-3, students use step functions to understand why the functions appear differently in two scenarios. They then determine which graph is correct and why. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 10, STEM Project, students are asked to use an aerial view of two cities and their knowledge of trigonometry and tangents to calculate unknown dimensions. They then do the same thing as they independently design a trio of space cities. Students make sense of the calculations required to describe the “space cities accurately.”

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 7, Lesson 7-5, Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 22, students determine a function that models a triangle's height to construct a treehouse's hexagonal floor. Students make sense of the triangle's shape to fit the floor pattern. 

Examples of where and how the materials use MP6 to enrich the mathematical content and demonstrate the full intent of the mathematical practice include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 3, Lesson 3-6, Example 5, Try It!, students are given two scenarios regarding the length of time that running shoes last, along with another statistic (the number of miles run and a person's age) and have to determine if the other statistic affects the longevity of the shoes. Students must understand that other variables play a role, and correlation does not mean causation.

  • In Geometry, Topic 9, Lesson 9-2, students justify their reasoning within proofs and are precise in calculating needed values. 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 11, Lesson 11-6, students communicate precisely using data and statistical measures to support or reject a hypothesis.

Indicator 2F
02/02

Materials support the intentional development of reasoning and explaining (MPs 2 and 3), in connection to the high school content standards, as required by the mathematical practice standards.

The materials for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations that the materials support the intentional development of reasoning and explaining (MPs 2 and 3), in connection to the high school content standards. 

Most of the time, MP2 and MP3 are used to enrich the mathematical content. There is an intentional development of MP3 and MP3 that reaches the full intent of the MPs. There are many examples in the materials of MPs 2 and 3 where students are asked to reason abstractly and quantitatively and to critique a solution to determine if it is correct or to find the mistake. Every lesson has at least one error analysis problem, and there are many occasions throughout the topics where students are asked to construct an argument to support their answers. 

Examples of where and how the materials use MP2 to enrich the mathematical content and demonstrate the full intent of the mathematical practice include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 5, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, students are presented with a video showing a person running on uneven terrain. Students generate a graph that matches the presented situation, relying on their understanding of concepts related to nonlinear functions to develop a representative model. Students engage in abstract and quantitative reasoning to identify constraints that will affect the graph of the scenario, comparing the speed of a runner going uphill, downhill, and on a flat surface. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 10, Lesson 10-1, Practice & Problem Solving, Performance Task, and Problem 32, use their knowledge about arcs and sectors to reason abstractly and quantitatively as they answer questions about building a stage for a concert.

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 9, STEM project, students make sense of the quantities in the parts of conic sections by answering questions pertaining to the characteristics of whispering galleries and the relationship between the location of a foci and the ratio of the length to width of an ellipse.

Examples of where and how the materials use MP3 to enrich the mathematical content and demonstrate the full intent of the mathematical practice include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 3, Lesson 3-2, Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 12, students are given an error analysis question where they need to describe and correct the error a student made when finding the function rule for the date in the table.

  • In Geometry, Topic 7, Lesson 7-4, Practice & Problem Solving, and Problem 14, students write proofs of a theorem and its corollaries by constructing arguments based on various "Given" and "Prove" scenarios. 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 7, Lesson 7-3, Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 10, students analyze the work of a hypothetical student to find and correct the error made in solving for the period of a trigonometric function.

Indicator 2G
02/02

Materials support the intentional development of modeling and using tools (MPs 4 and 5), in connection to the high school content standards, as required by the mathematical practice standards.

The materials for enVisionMath A/G/A partially meet expectations that the materials support the intentional development of modeling and using tools (MPs 4 and 5), in connection to the high school content standards. There is intentional development of MP4 and MP5 that reach the full intent of the MP throughout the series. 

Examples of where and how the materials use MP4 to enrich the mathematical content and demonstrate the full intent of the mathematical practice include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 8, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, students develop a model to represent the best path taken by a basketball to make a basket. They use their understanding of quadratic functions to test and validate their model. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 1, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, students create a model to perform calculations involving measurements of an object from an image (a bike wheel). They identify variables and the relationship between them in the shape being applied to the object and apply skills that will be revisited in the context of volume and surface area of composite shapes that represent objects from the real world in Topic 11.

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 1, Lesson 1-3, Model & Discuss, students graph the income each store would receive selling their different guitar string packages. “A music teacher needs to buy guitar strings for her class. At Store A, she can buy a single pack of strings. At Store B, she can buy a bundle of 4 packs of strings. A. Make graphs that show the income each store receives if the teacher needs 1-20 packs of guitar strings. B. Describe the shape of the graph for store A. Describe the shape of the graph for store B. Why are the graphs different? C. Compare the graphs for stores A and B. For what number of guitar strings is it cheaper to buy from store B? Explain how you know.” 

Examples of where and how the materials use MP5 to enrich the mathematical content and demonstrate the full intent of the mathematical practice include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 3, Lesson 3-5, Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 28, students are asked to compute and interpret the correlation coefficient for linear data using a graphing calculator tool. “A store records the price of kites in dollars, x, and the number of kites, y, sold at each price.” Students make a scatter plot and then calculate and interpret the slope in the context of the problem. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 1, Lesson 1-2, students learn to use a straightedge and compass to perform basic constructions. In Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 10, students explain how to “use a compass to determine if two segments are the same length”. 

In Algebra 2, Topic 4, Lesson 4-3, Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 14, students use tools and their knowledge of domain restrictions to show two rational expressions, (6x2)+21x3x\frac{(-6x^2)+21x}{3x} and 2x+7-2x + 7, are equivalent. They use their understanding of x intercepts to extend their explanation. 

Indicator 2H
02/02

Materials support the intentional development of seeing structure and generalizing (MPs 7 and 8), in connection to the high school content standards, as required by the mathematical practice standards.

The materials for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations that the materials support the intentional development of seeing structure and generalizing (MPs 7 and 8), in connection to the high school content standards. The majority of the time, MP7 and MP8 are used to enrich the mathematical content and to reach the full intent of the MPs. 

Examples of where and how the materials use MP7 to enrich the mathematical content and demonstrate the full intent of the mathematical practice include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 10, Lesson 10-3, students analyze the key features of function graphs. This includes the domain, range, maximum and minimum values, axis of symmetry, and end behaviors. By discovering that the leading coefficient and exponent of a polynomial affect the end behavior of functions, students can determine a polynomial’s structure.

  • In Geometry, Topic 7, Lesson 7-1, students use the structure of similar triangles to understand relationships in triangles after undergoing a dilation. In Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 25, students determine where a light should be placed to display a shadow of a particular size on the wall 2 ft away.  

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 9, Lesson 9-1, students use the structure of the equation of a parabola to identify key features of the parabola graph. In the Practice & Problem Solving sections of the lesson, students write the equation of a parabola shown in a graph in Problem 10 and describe the shape of a parabola “whose focus is very near the directrix” in Problem 13. 

Examples of where and how the materials use MP8 to enrich the mathematical content and demonstrate the full intent of the mathematical practice include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 9, Lesson 9-6, Example 2, Try It!, students form a system of equations to determine the solutions of the single quadratic equation x2+1=x+3x^2 + 1 = x + 3. Students generalize that the solution to a system of equations is when all expressions/equations are equal, or where the two equations intersect.

  • In Geometry, Topic 5, Lesson 5-3, students express regularity in repeated reasoning when investigating where the orthocenter is located for any right triangle. In Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 6, students extend that generalization to explain, “for any right triangle, where is the orthocenter located”? 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 7, Lesson 7-1, students use regularity in repeated reasoning to determine that the trigonometric values of coterminal angles are equal. In Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 19, students explain “the relationship between a positive and a negative angle that share a common terminal side.”  

Overview of Gateway 3

Usability

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A series meet expectations for Usability. The materials meet expectations for Criterion 1, Teacher Supports, and Criterion 2, Assessment, and partially meet expectations for Criterion 3, Student Supports.

Criterion 3.1: Teacher Supports

09/09

The program includes opportunities for teachers to effectively plan and utilize materials with integrity and to further develop their own understanding of the content.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A series meet expectations for Teacher Supports. The materials: provide teacher guidance with useful annotations and suggestions for enacting the materials, contain adult-level explanations and examples of the more complex grade-level concepts beyond the current grade so that teachers can improve their own knowledge of the subject, include standards correlation information that explains the role of the standards in the context of the overall series, provide explanations of the instructional approaches of the program and identification of the research-based strategies, and provide a comprehensive list of supplies needed to support instructional activities.

Indicator 3A
02/02

Materials provide teacher guidance with useful annotations and suggestions for how to enact the student materials and ancillary materials, with specific attention to engaging students in order to guide their mathematical development.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for providing teacher guidance with useful annotations and suggestions for how to enact the student materials and ancillary materials, with specific attention to engaging students in order to guide their mathematical development. 

There is a Teacher’s Edition Program Overview specific to each course that provides comprehensive guidance to assist teachers in presenting the student and ancillary materials. It contains four major components: an overview of enVision A/G/A, a User’s Guide, Correlation, and Professional Development.

  • The Overview provides the table of contents for the course and a pacing guide for a traditional year-long course and a block/half-year course. The authors provide the program goal and organization and information about their attention to Focus, Coherence, Rigor, and the Math Practices at the end of this section.

  • The User’s Guide introduces the program's components and illustrates how to use a “lesson”: Lesson Overview, Explore, Understand and apply, Practice and problem Solving, and Assess and Differentiate. This section also includes additional information that addresses more specific areas such as Mathematical Modeling, STEM, Literacy, and English Language Learners.

  • The Correlation section provides connections between each course, the Common Core State Standards, and enVision A/G/A.

  • Finally, the Professional Development portion includes research-based articles that are written by the author's program.

Within the Teacher’s Edition, each Lesson is presented in a consistent format, with probing questions to provide multiple entry points to the content, guidance on how to effectively present the materials, and additional examples coded to support struggling learners or extend student thinking. 

Examples of how the instructional materials provide guidance on presenting the materials include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 4, Lesson 4-3, students solve systems of equations using elimination. The lesson opens with a Critique & Explain, where students compare and contrast the work of two students who solved a system. The teacher’ notes include probing questions  before the activity, “Why might a person choose a particular approach to solve the problem?”, during the activity, “What do you notice about Sadie’s approach?” and after, “Why could there be more than one solution method for solving a system of linear equations?” It also provides sample responses to the questions. The probing questions continue to be provided throughout the lesson, and additional examples can be used along with each example. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 4, Lesson 4-4, students prove and apply the SAS and SSS congruence criteria for triangles. In the Explore & Reason activity, students “Make five triangles that have a 5-inch side, a 6-inch side and one 40°\degree

  •  angle. A. How many unique triangles can you make? B. How are the unique triangles different from each other?” The teacher's edition includes a section called Habits of Mind, prompting instructors to include questioning that incorporates the mathematical practices. “Make Sense and Persevere How could you organize your work to make sure you have tried every possible combination of the given side lengths and angle measure?” The text also includes guiding questions throughout the lesson to help the instructor lead the conversation in a way that will ensure understanding, such as “What transformation is needed so the triangle can be reflected over one of the congruent segments?” “Only one pair of sides is marked congruent. How can you apply SAS to this problem?” in a problem that incorporates the Reflexive Property. Additionally, there are ideas to further explore and confirm SSS both for struggling learners “using manipulatives” like drinking straws cut to size and to extend thinking “with straightedge and compass constructions.”

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 5, Lesson 5-3, students explore graphing radical functions. The lesson opens with an Explore & Reason activity where students use tools to graph a quadratic function and a square root function on the same axis. The Teachers Edition includes probing questions to make the connection between the two graphs, “How can you use the ordered pairs from your first graph to help you graph f(A)=Af(A) = \sqrt{\smash[b]{A}}?”. The text prompts teachers to “Discuss with students the familiar transformations that can occur for various types of parent functions.” There is an additional example to investigate the effect of negative coefficients by graphing “each radical function. 1. f(x)=x3f(x) = \sqrt[3]{x} and g(x)=x3g(x) = -\sqrt[3]{x}. 2. g(x)=2x1g(x)=2\sqrt{\smash[b]{x - 1}} and g(x)=2x1g(x)=-2\sqrt{\smash[b]{x-1}}.” 

Materials include sufficient and useful annotations and suggestions that are presented within the context of the specific learning objectives. The Teacher’s Edition includes numerous brief annotations and suggestions at the topic and lesson level organized around multiple mathematics education strategies and initiatives, including the CCSSM Shifts in Instructional Practice (i.e., focus, coherence, rigor), CCSSM practices, STEM projects, and 3-Act Math Tasks, NCTM Mathematics Teaching Practices, Teaching through Problem Solving (i.e., Before-During-After structure), Growth Mindset, and Problem-Based Learning. 

Examples of how the instructional materials provide teacher guidance on how to plan for instruction include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 5, the Topic Planner provides instructors with a pacing guide for the lessons as well as a list of the vocabulary that will be introduced in each section. The Topic Resources provides a list of the resources that will be used in that lesson and where to find them within the program materials. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 4, the Vocabulary Builder section guides instructors through making connections through vocabulary by recommending that “students construct an idea map with the word congruent at the center. Prompt students to recall the definitions of congruent angles and segments they learned in Topic 1. When students have finished their maps, have them trade maps with a partner.” 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 10, Lesson 10-2, the annotations alert the instructor to a “Common Mistake” within multiplying matrices, “Some students may switch the matrix that is assigned to each variable. Have the students write the matrix for G as it is and then rewrite it as a 2×32 \times 3 matrix. Have students write the matrix for W as it is and then rewrite it as a 3×13 \times 1 matrix. Explain that because they are now 2×32 \times 3 and 3×13 \times 1 matrices, they can be multiplied.” The text also includes detailed instructions to help the teacher plan for English Language Learners who may struggle with the terminology in the lesson, such as “When have you used the word diagonal in your daily life? Can a matrix have more than one diagonal?”

Indicator 3B
02/02

Materials contain adult-level explanations and examples of the more complex grade-level/course-level concepts and concepts beyond the current course so that teachers can improve their own knowledge of the subject.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for containing adult-level explanations and examples of the more complex course-level concepts and concepts beyond the current course so that teachers can improve their own knowledge of the subject. 

The materials provide a Topic Overview at the beginning of each topic that provides information pertaining to the math background of the topic in addition to connections to prior and future learning. The overview includes an illustration of how the lessons within the topic emphasize conceptual understanding, procedural skill and fluency, and application. 

Examples of how the materials support teachers to develop their own knowledge of more complex, course-level concepts include:

  • The online resources for each course provide teachers with a Professional Development Video for each Topic. “In each Topic Overview Video, an author highlights and gives helpful perspectives on important mathematics concepts and skills in the topic. The videos are quick, focused ‘Watch me first’ experiences to help you plan for the topic.”

  • The Algebra 1, Topic 2, Math Background Focus gives a mathematically rigorous description of the topic’s content,“In Lesson 2-2, students learn that there is another form that a linear equation can take called point-slope form. Given (x1,y1)(x_1, y_1) as a point on the line, and m for the slope, the question in point-slope form is yy1=m(xx1)y - y_1 =m(x - x_1). The most apparent purpose for this form is to write an equation when given a slope and a point on the line. Starting with a graph, this form is useful when the exact location of the y-intercept is not clear.”

  • In Geometry, Topic 2, Math Background Rigor, the material provides an adult-level description for how the three aspects of mathematical rigor are addressed in the topic. The Conceptual Understanding section notes that “students apply their understanding of the relationships of angles formed by parallel lines cut by a transversal to prove the Triangle Angle-Sum Theorem. A parallel line is constructed through the vertex opposite the chosen side using one side of the triangle. The resulting parallel lines can be used to prove the Triangle Angle-Sum Theorem or to find missing measurements in the interior or exterior of the triangle.”

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 6, Math Practices the material includes an adult-level explanation for how two of the eight Mathematical Practices are addressed in the topic.  “Look for and make use of structure. Look for patterns to determine whether they can use the natural log or the common log to solve an exponential equation. They use structure to determine the annual rate that was used to project the amount of money in an account.”

Examples of how the materials support teachers to develop their own knowledge beyond the current course:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 9, Mathematical Background, Looking Ahead, the materials state, “In Algebra 2, students will continue to use these methods to find the zeros of polynomial equations.” The materials include an image of a cubic function with points on the zeros for emphasis. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 5, Mathematical Background, Looking Ahead, the materials state, “Algebra 2 Trigonometry Students will extend the relationship of triangles and circles when they make sense of the trigonometric ratios. Students will relate the ratios of the lengths of the sides of right triangles by representing the hypotenuse of a right triangle as the circle's radius on a coordinate grid.”

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 11, Mathematical Background, Looking Ahead, the materials state, “In Statistics, they [students] will extend this knowledge to include finding the variance, the standard score, and the moment of deviation from the mean. Students will also use paired t-tests to determine whether the means of two samples vary considerably and statistical tests to determine the statistical importance of an observation.” The materials include an image of normally distributed SAT Math Scores with the standard deviation illustrated.

Indicator 3C
02/02

Materials include standards correlation information that explains the role of the standards in the context of the overall series.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for including standards correlation information that explains the role of the standards in the context of the overall series. 

Correlation information is present for the mathematics standards addressed throughout the series at the start of each course, topic, and lesson as well as throughout the lesson material itself. Examples include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 1, Topic Planner, presents a table of information including the name of each lesson, the essential understanding and content objective, any relative vocabulary for that lesson, and the CCSSM that will be addressed as well as any Mathematical Practice Standards that will be incorporated. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 7, Lesson 7-4, Mathematics Overview, in the Teacher’s Edition at the start of each lesson shows the focus content standards (G.SRT.4, G.SRT.5) and practice standards (MP.5, MP.7) for the lesson.

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 1, Lesson 1-1, correlation information is listed in white boxes within the margin of the lesson within the student edition.  For example, “Common Core State Standards HSF.IF.B.4, HSF.IF.B.6, HSF.IF.C.7, HSF.IF.B.5, MP.3, MP.4, MP.6”

Explanations of the role of the specific course-level mathematics are present in the context of the series. The Program Overview includes a table titled Common Core State Standards - Mathematics in enVision A|G|A that illustrates each standard and where it occurs throughout the series. Each topic includes a section that explains the role of that topic to the math that came before and will come after. Examples include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 1, Math Background Coherence, aligns the work of the topic with Grade 7 inequalities (7.EE.4b), Grade 8 properties of equality (8.EE.7a), later Algebra 1 content in Topic 2: Linear Equations (A-CED.2 and S-ID.7) and Topic 4: Systems of linear equations and inequalities (A-REI.6, A-REI.12 and A-CED.3), and Algebra 2 quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic equations (A-REI.1, A-REI.2, A-REI.4 and A-REI.11).

  • In Geometry, Topic 1, Math Background Coherence, describes the relationship to Algebra 1 work with identifying patterns (F-IF.3, F-BF.2 and F-LE.2) and properties of real numbers (N-RN.3); later Geometry work with parallel and perpendicular lines (G-GPE.5), triangle congruence (G-CO.5), and relationships in triangles (G-CO.9 and G-CO.10), and Algebra 2 work with trigonometry (F-TF.1).

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 1, Math Background Coherence, describes the relationship to Algebra 1 work with solving equations and inequalities algebraically (A-CED.3), transforming linear functions (F.BF.3), solving systems of equations (A-REI.6), and graphing absolute value functions (F-IF.7b) with later Algebra 2 work such as transforming linear and quadratic functions (F-BF.3), solving radical equations and graphing radical functions (A-REI.2) and Limits in Calculus. 

Indicator 3D
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Materials provide strategies for informing all stakeholders, including students, parents, or caregivers about the program and suggestions for how they can help support student progress and achievement.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A provide strategies for informing all stakeholders, including students, parents, or caregivers about the program and suggestions for how they can help support student progress and achievement. 

Each material has a Family Engagement Letter, which can be found in the Teacher Resources section. The Family Engagement Letter is available in both English and Spanish and provides a QR code that brings you to the Family Engagement Section. The materials state the following:

Welcome Thank you for working with your student’s teacher and with us, the authors of [enVision Math A|G|A], to advance your student’s learning. This is important to us, and we know it is to you. [enVision Math A|G|A] was specifically designed to implement the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and to foster your student’s success. [enVision Math A|G|A] was developed to help students see the math. And the program includes resources to help families see the math as well.” 

These resources are divided into the following areas: 

  • Overview of Resources enVisionMath A/G/A “was specifically designed to implement the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and to foster your student’s success.”

  • Content and Standards enVisionMath A/G/A “was specifically developed for the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. Each lesson is correlated to one or more of the content standards and one or more of the math practice standards. To help you understand the standards and how they are applied in enVision Mathematics, family-friendly explanations and examples are provided. When helping your child with homework, reference this document to understand the mathematical expectations for each content standard and to see how your child might engage with each math practice standard.”

  • Topic/Lesson Support enVision Math A/G/A “provides topic and lesson-level support. Look for an overview of each Topic’s content, lesson objectives, and suggested ways you can help with homework.”

Indicator 3E
02/02

Materials provide explanations of the instructional approaches of the program and identification of the research-based strategies.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for providing explanations of the instructional approaches of the program and identification of the research-based strategies. The Teacher’s Edition Program Overview of each course provides detailed explanations behind the instructional approaches of the program and cites research-based strategies for the layout of the program. Unless otherwise noted, all examples are found in the Teacher’s Edition Program Overview.

Examples where materials explain the instructional approaches of the program and describe research-based strategies include:

  • The Program Goal section states, "What were the major goals in developing enVision A|G|A? One major goal of enVision A|G|A was to create a high school mathematics program that reflects the latest research in mathematics education and learning theory and supports all learners on their pathway to college- and career-readiness. To achieve this goal, we developed a brand new program built from the ground up around three foundational principles:

    • A balanced pedagogy. Research has shown that teaching for understanding requires equal attention to helping students develop deep understanding of concepts, fluency with important processes and skills, and the ability to apply these concepts and skills to solve real-world and mathematical problems…

    • A focus on visual learning. Recent research (Park & Brannon, 2013) has found that powerful learning occurs when students use different areas of the brain, specifically the area that governs symbolic thinking and the area that focuses on visual thinking…

    • A focus on effective teaching and learning. Recent research has also shown that students make significant academic gains when they explore ‘worthwhile tasks’ and engage in meaningful mathematical discourse using mathematical language. Research also suggests that teachers need to create learning environments that facilitate and encourage this meaningful discourse. Every lesson in enVision A|G|A opens with a worthwhile task, a student-centered activity that requires students to think critically and construct sound mathematical arguments to defend their reasoning and their solutions. The teacher support was created using the NCTM’s Guiding Principles for School Mathematics, in particular Teaching and Learning…”

  • The Instructional Model section states, "The Common Core State Standards for Mathematics represent a major curricular initiative to create a common set of learning expectations for all high school students. In addition, recent research in mathematics instruction highlight the importance of having students actively engage in worthwhile, meaningful tasks. The instructional model for enVision A|G|A is grounded in these two research foci.  An integral part of the instructional model is a focus of the habits of mind that the Standards for Mathematical Practice describe. Throughout every lesson are multiple opportunities to help students develop proficiency with the Math Practices. In addition, each topic features a lesson called Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts that is designed to engage students in the mathematical modeling process. STEP 1: EXPLORE Introduce concepts and procedures with ‘worthwhile tasks.’  Research shows that conceptual understanding is developed when new mathematics is introduced in the context of solving a real problem in which ideas related to the new content are embedded (Kapur, 2010; Lester and Charles, 2003; Scott, 2014)...STEP 2: UNDERSTAND & APPLY Make the important mathematics explicit with enhanced direct instruction connected to Step 1. The second step, Understand and Apply, is designed to connect students’ thinking about the opening activity to the new ideas of the lesson. These concepts are presented through a series of visually rich example types purposefully designed to promote understanding… STEP 3: PRACTICE & PROBLEM SOLVING: Offer robust and balanced practice to solidify understanding. In Step 3, students embark on a series of carefully sequenced and crafted exercises to apply what they just learned and to practice toward mastery…STEP 4: ASSESS & DIFFERENTIATE: Check for understanding and provide remediation. enVision A|G|A provides quality assessment and differentiation support. enVision A|G|A offers diagnostic, formative, and summative assessments in print and digital formats. The digital assessments offer a wide range of item types that students may encounter in their state-mandated assessment from multiple-response multiple-choice items to rich, multi-part performance tasks…”

  • The Professional Development, Teaching for Understanding section states the following: “At the turn of the 21st Century, however, the National Research Council published Adding it Up (NAP, 2001) in which it defined mathematical proficiency as having five interwoven components:

    • Conceptual understanding. Conceptual understanding ‘reflects a student’s ability to reason in settings involving the careful application of concept definitions, relations, or representations of either’1. With conceptual understanding, students are able to transfer their knowledge to new situations and contexts in order to solve the problem presented. It is this transfer of knowledge that is so vital for success not only in mathematics, but in all disciplines and in the workplace. The authors of Principles and Standards for School Mathematics (NCTM, 2000) summarize it best: ‘Students must learn mathematics with understanding, actively building new knowledge from experience and prior knowledge.’21NAEP (2003). What Does the NAEP Mathematics Assessment Measure? Online at nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/mathematics/abilities.asp. 2http://www.nctm.org/Standards-and-Positions/Principles-and-Standards/Principles,-Standards,-and-Expectations/

  • Throughout the Teacher’s Edition Program Overview references to research-based strategies are cited with some reference pages included at the end of some authors' work.

Indicator 3F
01/01

Materials provide a comprehensive list of supplies needed to support instructional activities.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for providing a comprehensive list of supplies needed to support instructional activities.

Examples of where materials include a comprehensive list of supplies needed to support instructional activities include:

  • In the online Teacher Resources for each course, a Materials List is provided in table format identifying the required material and the topic(s) or lesson(s) where it will be used. The list includes items such as graph paper, graphing calculators, algebra tiles, protractors, compasses, scissors, and optional materials such as coins, spinners, and colored pencils. 

  • The teacher’s edition includes materials in the description of the activities when necessary.

    • Algebra 1, Topic 10, Lesson 10-3, English Language Learners for use with example 3, “Have the students duplicate the first graph from the example on a piece of graph paper…”

    • Geometry, Topic 4, Lesson 4-3, Support Struggling Students for use with example 4, “Each student will need three drinking straws…”

    • Algebra 2, Topic 8, Lesson 8-1, English Language Learners for use with example 5, “Distribute scissors and a piece of unlined square paper to each student…”

Indicator 3G
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This is not an assessed indicator in Mathematics.

Indicator 3H
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This is not an assessed indicator in Mathematics.

Criterion 3.2: Assessment

09/10

The program includes a system of assessments identifying how materials provide tools, guidance, and support for teachers to collect, interpret, and act on data about student progress towards the standards.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A series meet expectations for Assessment. The materials include an assessment system that provides multiple opportunities throughout the courses to determine students' learning and sufficient guidance to teachers for interpreting student performance and suggestions for follow-up. The materials also provide assessments that include opportunities for students to demonstrate the full intent of course-level standards and practices. The materials partially include assessment information in the materials to indicate which standards are assessed.

Indicator 3I
01/02

Assessment information is included in the materials to indicate which standards are assessed.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMATH A/G/A partially meet expectations for having assessment information included in the materials to indicate which standards are assessed. The materials do not identify practices for most of the assessment items.

The materials identify the following assessments in the Teacher’s Edition Program Overview:

  • Progress Monitoring Assessments are used at the start, middle, and end of the year to, “Diagnose and assess students’ understanding of and proficiency with concepts and skills taught throughout the school year with A, B, and C parallel assessments, results can be used to prescribe intervention.”

  • Diagnostic Assessments, which consist of a course readiness assessment and a topic readiness assessment, are to be given at the start of the year and the start of each topic.

  • Formative Assessments are incorporated throughout the lesson in the form of “Try It!”, “Do You UNDERSTAND?” and “Do You Know HOW?”  to check for understanding or a need to supplement instruction, or in the form of Lesson Quizzes to check for proficiency with lesson content before moving forward in the topic.

  • Summative Assessments, including Topic Assessments and Benchmark Assessments, are provided in multiple editable forms to assess student understanding after each topic and/or group of topics and at the end of the course. 

The Teacher’s Edition maps content standards to items from Diagnostic and Summative Assessments. Examples of how the materials identify the standards for some of the formal assessments include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 5, Topic Assessment Form B, Problem 6, “The graph of g(x)=4x3g(x)=4|x|-3 maps a person’s path from their house to school, and their path from school to a friend’s house. At what point is the school located?” The Item Analysis for Diagnosis and Intervention table identifies the standard for this item as HSF.IF.B.4.

  • In Geometry, Topic 2, Benchmark Assessment 1, Problem 3, “Point A has coordinates (-5, 3). If point (1, 6) is 34\frac{3}{4}of the way from A to B, what are the coordinates of point B?” The Item Analysis for Diagnosis and Intervention table identifies the standard for this item as HSG.GPE.B.6. 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 6, Topic Readiness Assessment, Problem 1, “Evaluate the expression 8x38^{\frac{x}{3}} for x=2x=2.” The Item Analysis for Diagnosis and Intervention table identifies the standard for this item as HSN.RN.A.2.

The Standards for Mathematical Practices are only identified when the assessment is within the lesson. Examples include, but are not limited to:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 6, Lesson 6-1, Do You Understand?, Problem 2, “A square has an area of 15 ft2ft^2. What are two ways of expressing its side length?” This question is labeled with an MP.1.

  • In Geometry, Topic 10, Lesson 10-2, Do You Understand?, Problem 2, “Kona looked at the figure shown and said that AB\overline{AB} is tangent to \odotG at A because it intersects \odotG only at A. What was Kona’s error?” It is accompanied by an image of a circle with a triangle created by the radius of the circle, the endpoints of which are connected to a point outside the circle. The angle created in the triangle near the center of the circle is labeled as 71°71\degree and the angle near the point not touching the circle is labeled as 20°20\degree. This problem is labeled as MP.3. 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 3, Lesson 3-6, Try it!, Problem 4, “Suppose a quadratic polynomial function f has two complex zeros which are a conjugate pair, a - bi and a + bi (where a and b are real numbers). Are all the coefficients of f real? Explain.” It is labeled with an MP.7.

Indicator 3J
04/04

Assessment system provides multiple opportunities throughout the grade, course, and/or series to determine students' learning and sufficient guidance to teachers for interpreting student performance and suggestions for follow-up.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for including an assessment system that provides multiple opportunities throughout the grade, course, and/or series to determine students’ learning and sufficient guidance to teachers for interpreting student performance and suggestions for follow-up. 

All assessments include a digital and paper option and an answer key for correcting students’ work. Most also include a “Skills Review and Practice” assignment for the corresponding assessment item for following up with students. If you take the assessment on the digital platform, the system will auto-adapt intervention assignments based on an individual student’s needs. For those assessment that do not include a “Skills Review and Practice” assignment, additional practice can be assigned via the Standards Practice Workbook.

Examples of the assessment system providing opportunities for teachers to interpret student performance and suggestions for follow-up:

  • The Standards Progress Report captures performance on each standard-aligned question for all assessments throughout the year. Standards are colored green if students answered correctly and red if they answered incorrectly, with the student's standards progress bar showing their overall performance. When you click on a standard, you can also view all the relevant standard-aligned resources that you can assign to that student. 

  • Algebra 1, Topic 5, Lesson 5-1, Lesson Quiz, Problem 2, “Graph the function g(x)=12xg(x)=-\frac{1}{2}|x|.” The materials says the following about the Lesson Quiz, “Use the Lesson Quiz to assess students’ understanding of the mathematics in the lesson…Use the student scores on the Lesson Quiz to prescribe differentiated assignments.” The breakdown of the assignment is as follows: I = Intervention 0-3 points, assignments would be Reteach to Build Understanding, Mathematical Literacy and Vocabulary, and Lesson Virtual Nerd videos, O = On-Level 4 points assignment would be Enrichment, and A = Advanced 5 points assignment would be Enrichment.

  • Algebra 2, Topic 1, Topic Readiness Assessment, Problem 1, “Graph the linear inequality 6x3y>126x-3y>12.” The Item Analysis for Diagnosis and Intervention table identifies the Skills Review and Practice for follow-up with the student as Lesson A16. Lesson A16, is titled Linear Inequalities, and begins with a four-step review of how to graph a  linear inequality. Underneath the review, there are twelve practice problems to graph.

Indicator 3K
04/04

Assessments include opportunities for students to demonstrate the full intent of grade-level/course-level standards and practices across the series.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for providing assessments that include opportunities for students to demonstrate the full intent of course-level standards and practices across the series. 

Each topic begins with a Readiness Assessment and ends with both a formal Topic Assessment and a Topic Performance Assessment that assesses the full range of standards from that topic. The Topic Assessments are primarily multiple-choice or short-answer questions, while the Topic Performance Assessment incorporates constructed response items. The assessments are provided as PDFs and are recommended to be taken in class. 

The formative assessments throughout the topics include primarily constructed response questions. They are mapped to both standards and mathematical practices. 

Examples of assessments, including opportunities for students to demonstrate the full intent of course-level standards and practices, include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 3, Topic Assessment Form A, Question 8 demonstrates the full intent of the standards S-ID.6, MP1 and MP7. “ Part A Each day, Yumiko exercises by first doing sit-ups and then running. Make a scatter plot of the total time she exercises as a function of the distance she runs. Draw a trend line. [Table with distance (mi)/Time (min) pairs: 1.5, 18; 2, 23; 2.5, 28; 3, 34; 3.5, 34; 4, 40, along with a blank graph with Total Distance (mi) on the x-axis and Total Time (min) on the y-axis.] Part B Which sentence describes the correlation of the scatter plot. A. The correlation is positive because the time increases as the distance decreases. B. The correlation is negative because the time decreases as distance increases. C. It is impossible to tell what the correlation is based on the given data. D. There is no correlation between time and distance in this situation.”

  • In Geometry, Topic 3, Lesson 3-3, Lesson Quiz, Question 5 demonstrates the full intent of the content standards G-CO.5 and MP2. “How many times does the rotation R(120o,P)R_{(120o, P)} need to be applied to a figure to map the figure onto itself?” 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 3, Topic Performance Assessment B, Question 2 demonstrates the full intent of the content standards A-APR.2, MP2, and MP4. “Jamie decides that the container described in the previous section will not be practical to handle because of its shape. He plans to build containers with sides which increase by 1 foot. Let x be the smallest dimension of the container. Part A Write and graph a function V for the volume of the new containers. Part B The volume of the container will be 150 ft3ft^3. Transform the graph of the function V from Part A, so that the x-intercept is the width of the container. Write a function f to represent this graph. How does the graph of this f relate to the graph of the function V in Part A? Part C What are the dimensions of the container to the nearest tenth?”

Indicator 3L
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Assessments offer accommodations that allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills without changing the content of the assessment.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A do not provide assessments which offer accommodations that allow students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills without changing the content of the assessment. 

Summative assessments are provided in PDF format for class use. No guidance is provided for administering the assessment with accommodations in person. 

Assessments can be edited by the teacher, and as a result, they have the potential to alter course-level expectations because they are teacher-created items.

Criterion 3.3: Student Supports

07/08

The program includes materials designed for each student’s regular and active participation in grade-level/grade-band/series content.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A series partially meet expectations for Student Supports. The materials provide: strategies and supports for students in special populations to support their regular and active participation in learning course-level mathematics, strategies and supports for students who read, write, and/or speak in a language other than English to regularly participate in learning course-level mathematics and provide manipulatives, both virtual and physical, that are accurate representations of the mathematical objects they represent and, when appropriate, are connected to written methods. The materials partially provide extensions and/or opportunities for students to engage with course-level mathematics at higher levels of complexity.

Indicator 3M
02/02

Materials provide strategies and supports for students in special populations to support their regular and active participation in learning grade-level/series mathematics.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for providing strategies and support for students in special populations to support their regular and active participation in learning series mathematics. 

At the end of each lesson,, there is a differentiated resources section. These resources are assigned based on how students score on the lesson quiz taken on or offline. If taken online, the resources are automatically assigned as the quiz is automatically scored. Resources are assigned based on the following scale based on the following scale: I = Intervention 0-3 points, O = On-Level 4 points and A = Advanced 5. The types of resources include the following:

  • Mathematical Literacy & Vocabulary (I, O) - Helps students develop and reinforce understanding of key terms and concepts.

  • Reteach for Understanding (I) - Provides scaffolded reteaching for the key lesson concepts.

  • Additional Practice (I, O) - Provides extra practice for each lesson.

  • Enrichment (O, A) - Presents engaging problems and activities that extend the lesson concepts.

Other resources offered are personalized study plans to provide targeted remediation for students, as well as support for English Language Learners and struggling readers. Additionally, Virtual Nerd instructional tutorials are, “accessible online, or by scanning the QR codes on the exercise pages,  providing high school students with 24-7 tutorial video support.”

Examples of the materials providing strategies and support for students in special populations include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 6, Lesson 6-3, students graph an exponential function relative to the spreading of computer viruses. The text provides guidance to instructors for English Language Learners: “Writing (Beginning). A virus is something that has a bad influence on someone or something. Have students write two different definitions for the word virus in their journals. Then, have students write their answers to the following questions in their journals under the correct definition. Q: What are some words you think about when you hear the word virus in relation to a person? Q: What does it mean for a computer to have a virus? ”

  • In Geometry, Topic 3, Lesson 3-2, students apply translations to an animation. The text provides guidance to Support Struggling Students: "Students describe a translation as a composition of the horizontal displacement and the vertical displacement. Draw a segment from A(2, 2) to B(4, 3) and its image from A’(-4, -3) to B’(-2, -2) on the board. Q: Can you write the horizontal displacement as a translation? Q: Can you write the vertical displacement as a translation? Q: Can you write the complete translation as a composition of the vertical and horizontal displacements? Q: Does the order of the transformations in the composition matter? Explain. ” 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 12, Lesson 12-1, Reteach to Build Understanding, Problem 3, students calculate the probability of two events happening. “A classmate asks Juan to find the probability of tossing a number cube and getting an even number on the first roll and a 2 on the second roll. Complete the calculation. P(even)=36P(2)=6P(even) = \frac{3}{6}P(2) = \frac{ }{6} 

Indicator 3N
01/02

Materials provide extensions and/or opportunities for students to engage with grade-level/course-level mathematics at higher levels of complexity.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A partially meet expectations for providing extensions and/or opportunities for students to engage with course-level mathematics at higher levels of complexity. 

The materials provide Early Finishers questions, Extend Student Thinking activities and Enrichment worksheets for advanced students with each lesson. If taken online Enrichment assignments are auto-assigned based on formative assessment scores. However, there is no guidance given to the teacher on how to assign some opportunities to ensure individual students would not be completing more assignments than their classmates.

Examples include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 10, Lesson 10-4, Extend Student Thinking, “Have students explore combining translations when the given function is f(x)=x2+2f(x) = x^2 + 2, Identify the vertex of the function g. Explain. 1. g(x)=f(x4)+3g(x) = f(x - 4) + 3 2. g(x)=f(x+1)+6g(x) = f(x + 1) + 6 3. g(x)=f(x+4)2g(x) = f(x + 4) - 2

  • In Geometry, Topic 2, Lesson 2-1, Enrichment, students use the law of reflection to complete a two-column proof. They are provided with an image of a horizontal line representing a mirror with a vertical ray coming up from the center, and two angled rays representing a beam of light pointed at a mirror and reflecting off in the opposite direction. “Use the Law of Reflection to complete the two-column proof. Given: ∠AOC \simeq∠BOD, Prove: OEundefinedABundefined\overrightarrow{\rm OE} \perp \overleftrightarrow{\rm AB}

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 9, Lesson 9-2, the materials prompt the instructor to extend students understanding of distance on a circle in the coordinate plane if they finish early. “How could you find several points that are the same distance from the target ball as Latoya’s ball? As Jason’s ball?”

An Assignment Guide is also provided for the Practice & Problem Solving section. The Assignment Guide divides the questions into two sections On-level and Advanced, and gives an example of how to engage students through choice. For example:

  • In Geometry, Topic 7, Lesson 7-4, the Assignment Guide lists 11-13, 16-26 as On-level, and 11-27 as Advanced. The Engage Through Student Choice states the following: “Promote student agency by allowing students to choose practice items. You may structure this choice in many ways. For example: Assign each section a point value. Students choose at least one item from each section and items chosen should have a minimum of 20 total points. Understand, Apply…2 points each Practice…1 point each Assessment Practice…1 point each Performance Task…3 points” Although, students are given a choice of which problems to complete the overall selection of problems for Advanced students is more than the problems for On-level students.

Indicator 3O
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Materials provide varied approaches to learning tasks over time and variety in how students are expected to demonstrate their learning with opportunities for students to monitor their learning.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A partially provide varied approaches to learning tasks over time and variety in how students are expected to demonstrate their learning with opportunities for students to monitor their learning. The materials provide a variety of approaches for students to learn the content over time but provide limited opportunities for students to monitor their learning.

The materials follow a clear structure within each lesson with four steps to the learning process. Step 1 is titled Explore & Reason and includes  “worthwhile tasks” designed to introduce the concepts students will see during that lesson. This step is accompanied by question prompts before, during, and after the activity to make connections to prior knowledge, promote productive struggle, and prepare students for the lesson itself. 

Step 2 is titled Understand & Apply. This section includes the instructional examples to connect that prior knowledge to new learning. These examples are followed by Try Its!, Mathematical Practice focuses, and Additional Examples. 

Step 3 is Practice & Problem Solving, where students are given practice activities separated into four parts: Understand, Practice, Apply, and Assessment, where students address all elements of rigor while performing these tasks. There are instructions for how to have students create their  assignments within this section, which would allow them the ability to monitor their understanding, however, if students are assigned specific questions, they are not being given this opportunity. 

Step 4 is Assess & Differentiate, during which students complete multiple assessments, including a formal assessment consisting of multiple choice and short answer styles of questions, in addition to a higher level performance assessment. These items are assigned and not designed with student-choice. 

Examples of how the materials provide varied approaches to learning tasks over time and variety in how students are expected to demonstrate their learning include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 2, Lesson 2-4, Explore & Reason, students are given three equations to graph using a calculator, “A. Look for Relationships Choose any two of the lines you graphed. How are they related to each other? B. Does your answer to Part A hold for every pair of lines? Explain. C. Write another set of three or more equations that have the same relationships as the first three equations.”

  • In Geometry, Topic 10, Lesson 10-2, Understand & Apply, Try It!, students prove that a line is tangent to a point in a circle given certain conditions. Students can use a combination of words and visually to complete the proof. 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 4, Lesson 4-3, Problem 12, students perform error analysis to demonstrate their learning. “Error Analysis Describe the error a student made in multiplying and simplifying .” The problem provides a page of student work.

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Materials provide opportunities for teachers to use a variety of grouping strategies.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A provide some opportunities for teachers to use a variety of grouping strategies. 

The Teacher’s Edition Program Overview states that during the Explore Step “students work in pairs or small groups. Questions in the Teacher’s Edition can help students who are struggling.” It mentions that “modeling tasks are best tackled in groups”. However, there is no guidance on how to create the groups for these activities. 

Examples of the materials providing opportunities for teachers to use a variety of grouping strategies include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 9, Lesson 9-6, Model & Discuss, students address the question, “An architect is designing an archway for a building that has a 9 ft ceiling. She is working with the constraints shown at the right. [Picture annotated to show the archway’s width is 5 ft and the height of the straight right side is 7 ft.] A. Find a quadratic model for the arches if the highest point of the arch touches the ceiling. B. Use Structure Describe how to change the model so that the highest point of the arch does not touch the ceiling.” The instructor notes include prompting questions for the part of the activity designated as small group work:  “Q: How can you write a quadratic equation that models this situation? Q: Name 3 points on the parabola formed by the archway.” However, there is no guidance as to how to create the groups.

  • In Geometry, Topic 5, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, students are tasked with finding the best placement for a heli-pad, “Main Question. Where should the helicopter pad be placed so it’s fair for all three towns?” The Program Overview recommends students working in groups for the Modeling Tasks, but does not give guidance on how to assign the groups. 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 12, Lesson 12-4, Model & Discuss, students analyze tree diagrams for a given scenario. “Mr. and Mrs. Mason have three children. Assume that the probability of having a baby girl is 0.5 and the probability of having a baby boy is also 0.5. [They are given two tree diagrams labeled as Model A and Model B]. A. Reason. Which model represents the situation correctly, Model A or Model B? Explain. B. What is the probability that Mr. and Mrs. Mason have 3 girls? C. Compare the probability that the Masons’ first child was a boy and they then had two girls to the probability that their first two children were girls and they then had a boy. Does the order affect the probabilities? Explain.” The teacher notes include questions for during the activity with the recommendation of it being done in small group, however guidance is not included on how to form those groups. “Q: What would Model B look like with only 2 children? Q: Is there a different way you can organize the information? Q: Think about the coin-flip situation. Now suppose that a family has 3 children. Is it more likely that all 3 are girls or that 2 are girls and 1 is boy?”

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Materials provide strategies and supports for students who read, write, and/or speak in a language other than English to regularly participate in learning grade-level mathematics.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for providing strategies and supports for students who read, write, and/or speak in a language other than English to regularly participate in learning grade-level mathematics. 

There is an English Language Learner supports and Mathematical Literacy and Vocabulary worksheet provided for every lesson in the series. The student edition and assessment materials are also available in Spanish. The bilingual glossary has text-to-speech for both languages as well as a visual representation of the terms. Additionally, the Multilingual Handbook provides a downloadable glossary in 10 languages, including Cambodian, Cantonese, English, Haitian Creole, Hmong, Korean, Mandarin, Filipino, Spanish, and Vietnamese. The Virtual Nerd instructional tutorials videos offer Spanish captions. The Teacher’s Edition Program Overview also references the many illustrations to help with context for English Language Learners and the connections to relative contexts so students may share personal experiences.  

Examples of where the materials provide strategies and supports for students who read, write, and/or speak in a language other than English include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 1, Lesson 1-6, Mathematical Literacy and Vocabulary, tasks students to complete a table with the headings Word or Word Phrase, Description, and Picture or Example for vocabulary including compound inequality and open circle on the number line to support a better understanding of the content in this lesson. Students would fill in the missing information in either the “Description” column or the “Picture or Example” column.

  • In the Geometry Visual Glossary, under parallelogram, the materials state, “A parallelogram is a quadrilateral with two pairs of parallel sides. You can choose any side to be the base. An altitude is any segment perpendicular to the line containing the base drawn from the side opposite the base. The height is the length of an altitude.” [Figure of a parallelogram with altitude and base marked, along with markings indicating opposite sides are parallel.] “Un paralelogramo es un cuadrilátero con dos pares de lados paralelos. Se puede escoger cualquier lado como la base. Una altura es un segmento perpendicular a la recta que contiene la base, trazada desde el lado opuesto a la base. La altura, por extensión, es la longitud de una altura.” In the online platform, these definitions can be read aloud in both languages. 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 6, Lesson 6-4, English Language Learners, “Speaking [Beginning] In small groups, have students discuss the meanings of inter- and change, and how they relate to the meaning of interchange. Q: Where do you hear the word interchange used? Q: What does the word interchange mean?” This support is supposed to be used with Example 3, and it has two additional supports, Listening [Developing] and Writing [Expanding].

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Materials provide a balance of images or information about people, representing various demographic and physical characteristics.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A provide a balance of images or information about people, representing various demographic and physical characteristics. 

The Teacher’s Edition Program Overview, Personal Relevancy section, states the following, “Images and Names used throughout the Student Edition reflect the diversity of the world. Students are able to see themselves and others in the images and names used throughout the program.”

Materials represent a variety of genders, races, ethnicities, and physical characteristics. All are indicated with no bias and represent different populations. When images of people are used, they  represent different races and portray people from many ethnicities positively and respectfully, with no demographic bias for who achieves success in the context of problems. Lessons include a variety of names that are representative of various demographics. Examples include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 3, Lesson 3-1, Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 25, “Felix is slicing a tortilla Española (Spanish omelet) by cutting diameters through the center. He plans on cutting 1 to 8 diameters. The number of slices is a function of the number of diameters. Describe the domain and range of function.” There is an image included of tortillas being cut into various arrangements. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 7, Lesson 7-5, Practice & Problem Solving, Problem 28, “Aisha is building a roof and needs to determine the lengths of CG and CF from the design shown. How can she determine CG\overline{\rm CG} and CF\overline{\rm CF}? What are CG and CF?”

  • Algebra 2, Topic 8, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, the image included shows individuals of different genders, races, and physical characteristics. The context of the problem is about the construction of a wheelchair ramp to make a home accessible.

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Materials provide guidance to encourage teachers to draw upon student home language to facilitate learning.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A partially provide guidance to encourage teachers to draw upon student home language to facilitate learning. 

Various materials are provided in Spanish, including a Family Letter and Student Edition textbook. In the Teacher’s Edition, there is a Vocabulary Builder at the start of each lesson focusing on mathematical and academic vocabulary. Vocabulary is introduced in both English and Spanish. The Teacher’s Edition Program Overview, Supporting English Language Learners section states “Visual Learning In Math Instruction Concept Summary provides a concise summary of the mathematical content in multiple representations. Bilingual glossary is always available to students and teachers when using digital resources. The glossary is in English and Spanish to help students connect Spanish math terms they may know to English equivalents. The multilingual handbook provides glossary [sic] in 10 different languages.” 

While Language Supports are regularly embedded within lessons and support mathematical language development, they do not include specific suggestions for drawing on a student’s home language.

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Materials provide guidance to encourage teachers to draw upon student cultural and social backgrounds to facilitate learning.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A provide guidance to encourage teachers to draw upon student cultural and social backgrounds to facilitate learning. 

The Teacher’s Edition Program Overview states that “Real-World Contexts…are ones students may have experiences or learned about, providing opportunities for students to share their personal experiences and knowledge. Illustrations and other images help students to make sense of contexts and support English Language Learners. Reflecting Students’ Experiences in the diverse contexts embedded throughout examples and exercises provides opportunities for students to see mathematics as relevant to their lives.”

The Personal Relevancy section of the Teacher’s Edition Program Overview states “Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts In each task’s accompanying videos, students see diverse people actively engaging in real-world problem situations. Students explore interesting and engaging problems that they can imagine occurring in their everyday lives.” The STEM Projects section includes the following: “Relevant Contexts enVision STEM projects are centered around key themes in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and present situations that address real-world issues.”

Examples of the materials drawing upon students’ cultural and social backgrounds to facilitate learning include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 3, STEM Project, students plan a recycling drive at their school. The Teacher’s Notes states, “Present the situation by asking students what kinds of materials they recycle in their households and whatif any, kind of recycling pickup they have where they live.”

  • In Geometry, Topic 1, STEM Project, students investigate the Golden Ratio. The materials include a picture of the Taj Mahal describing its main door as an example of a golden rectangle. 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 4, Mathematical Modeling in 3 Acts, students find the time needed to fill up a pool. The text prompts students to use their social backgrounds in creating background knowledge by saying “Nothing feels better on a hot day than jumping into a pool! Many cities have swimming pools that people can go to for a small fee. Some people have swimming pools in their backyard that they can enjoy any time. If neither of these options is available, what could you do to cool off?”

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Materials provide supports for different reading levels to ensure accessibility for students.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A provide supports for different reading levels to ensure accessibility for students. 

The Teacher’s Edition Program Overview states, “at the beginning of every lesson in the Teacher’s Edition is a Vocabulary Builder activity that focuses on both mathematical vocabulary and academic vocabulary. The activities that launch each lesson promote not just understanding of math concepts, but reinforce and build key language skills of speaking and listening as students share and defend their solution strategies.” The online platform provides screen reading services to ensure accessibility for readers of all levels. The materials include embedded activities to enhance the educational experience for all students. Examples include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 10, Lesson 10-2, English Language Learners, (Use with Example 3), “Reading Beginning Have students read the first sentence of the example along with you as you read it aloud. Q: In the example, is the word clays the plural of clay? Explain. Display the definition of clay and have students read it along with you: ‘earth; a type of mud made of very fine particles that stick together when wet.’ Q: Is Creative Clays selling mud?

  • In Geometry, Topic 5, Lesson 5-1, Vocabulary Builder, Vocabulary Activity, “Break apart the word equidistant and discuss its component parts.  Have the class identify students who are equidistant from two points in the classroom, such as the door and a window.  Have students complete these sentences for review. 1. Two lines that intersect to form a right angle are called __________. 2. A line segment is divided into two smaller, congruent segments by a __________. 3. A point that is the same distance from two points is __________ from the points.”

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 12, Lesson 12-2, English Language Learners, (Use with Example 2), “Reading Developing Read the following two definitions for the word independent. 1) showing a desire for freedom 2) not requiring or relying on something else Now read the following sentence from the Concept Box: If events A and B are independent, then the conditional probability of B given A equals the probability of B. Q: Which definition best describes the way independent is used in the Concept Box? Q: Give an example of something that is independent of something else.”

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Manipulatives, both virtual and physical, are accurate representations of the mathematical objects they represent and, when appropriate, are connected to written methods.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A meet expectations for providing manipulatives, both virtual and physical, that are accurate representations of the mathematical objects they represent and, when appropriate, are connected to written methods. 

The materials include virtual manipulatives that are presented as Desmos activities throughout the series. Examples of how virtual manipulatives are accurate representations of mathematical objects and are connected to written methods, when appropriate, include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 10, Lesson 10-6, Explore & Reason, students explore how adding a constant to a function output changes the function's domain and range. The interactive materials provide a demo applet so students can see how adding a constant affects the domain and range. The applet shows the graphs, f(x)=x2f(x)=x^2 and g(x)=x2+3g(x)=x^2+3 students are tasked with graphing another function using a different constant and recording the change to the domain and range. 

  • In Geometry, Topic 5, Lesson 5-4, Explore & Reason, students use pieces of straw to investigate the Triangle Inequality Theorem. “Cut several drinking straws to the sizes shown. [Drawing shows straws with lengths 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, and 10 centimeters] A. Take your two shortest straws and your longest straw. Can they form a triangle? Explain. B. Try different combinations of three straws to form triangles. Which side length combinations work?  Which combinations do not work? C. Look for relationships What do you notice about the relationship between the combined lengths of the two shorter sides and the length of the longest side?”

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 9, Modeling in 3 Acts, students determine the best sprinkler placement on a grassy lawn. The interactive materials provide a desmos applet simulating a green 10-by-10 lawn with blue, red and purple circles representing the sprinklers. “Drag points to place each sprinkler. Use the sliders to change the radius of each sprinkler.” Students are able to move the circles around the ‘lawn’ and change the radii using a slide bar while the activity adjusts the area of watered space.

Criterion 3.4: Intentional Design

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The program includes a visual design that is engaging and references or integrates digital technology, when applicable, with guidance for teachers.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A series integrate technology such as interactive tools, virtual manipulatives/objects, and/or dynamic mathematics software in ways that engage students in the course-level standards, and the materials partially include or reference digital technology that provides opportunities for teachers and/or students to collaborate with each other. The materials have a visual design that supports students in engaging thoughtfully with the subject, and is neither distracting nor chaotic, and the materials provide teacher guidance for the use of embedded technology to support and enhance student learning.

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Materials integrate technology such as interactive tools, virtual manipulatives/objects, and/or dynamic mathematics software in ways that engage students in the grade-level/series standards, when applicable.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A integrate technology such as interactive tools, virtual manipulatives/objects, and/or dynamic mathematics software in ways that engage students in the series standards, when applicable. Built-in tools are integrated into the “Interactive Student Edition”. Students also have access to other tools that can be found on the main page of the website. These tools found under the“Tools” section include Desmos Graphing Calculator, Desmos Geometry Tool, Desmos Scientific Calculator and Math Tools that contains 2D and 3D Geometric Constructor, Algebra Tiles, Graphing Utility, and Number Line. 

Examples of how the materials integrate technology such as interactive tools, virtual manipulate/objects, and/or dynamic mathematics software in ways that engage students in the series standards include:

  • In Algebra 1, Topic 3, Student Interactive Lesson 3-3, students use technology to interpret the effects of multiplying a coefficient to a linear function. “How does multiplying the output of a linear function affect its graph? Compare the graphs of f(x)=x+1f(x) = x + 1 and g(x)=4(x+1)g(x) = 4(x + 1).” The materials provide an embedded graphing tool that allows students to explore vertical stretches and compressions.

  • In Geometry, Topic 5, Student Interactive Lesson 5-1, Try it!, students are given a segment JK and use the embedded virtual construction tool to construct the perpendicular bisector. “Construct the perpendicular bisector of line segment JK.” 

  • In Algebra 2, Topic 3, Student Interactive Lesson 3-1, Explore & Reason, students use embedded graphing tools to generalize the shape of polynomials with even and odd exponents. “A. Graph f(x)=xnf(x) = x^n for n = 1, 3, and 5. Look at the graphs in Quadrant I. As the exponent increases, what is happening to the graphs? Which quadrants do the graphs pass through? B. Look for Relationships Graph f(x)=xnf(x) = x^n for n = 2, 4, and 6. Look at the graphs in Quadrant I. As the exponent increases, what is happening to the graphs? Which quadrants do the graphs pass through?” 

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Materials include or reference digital technology that provides opportunities for teachers and/or students to collaborate with each other, when applicable.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A partially include or reference digital technology that provides opportunities for teachers and/or students to collaborate with each other, when applicable. The materials include digital technology that provides opportunities for student-to-teacher and student-to-student collaboration, but opportunities for teacher-to-teacher collaboration are not provided.

The digital system allows students and teachers to collaborate by commenting on assignments. The Savvas Realize help page states the following: “Realize Reader Comments Using the Realize Assignment Viewer, you can provide your student with feedback in their Realize Reader assignments by adding a comment to a highlight, annotation, or inline Notebook prompt response. When you or your student adds a comment, a comment thread is created that enables you to continue to communicate with each other in context.”

The digital system allows students to collaborate with other students and teachers through the Discussion Forums. The Savvas Realize help page states the following: “Discussion Forum Discussions enable you to facilitate class and group discussions on important academic and social topics. Students can reflect on learning, share ideas and opinions, or ask and answer questions. You can create, monitor, and reply to discussions, and students can participate in discussions you create. In addition, you can choose whether or not to score discussions.”

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The visual design (whether in print or digital) supports students in engaging thoughtfully with the subject, and is neither distracting nor chaotic.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A have a visual design (whether print or digital) that supports students in engaging thoughtfully with the subject, and is neither distracting nor chaotic.

There is a consistent design within topics and lessons that support student understanding of mathematics. Examples include:

  • Each topic begins with the Math Background (Focus, Coherence and Rigor), Math Practices, Topic Planner, Topic Resources, Topic Readiness Assessment, Topic Opener, STEM Project, and 3-Act Math.

  • Each lesson follows a common format:

    • Lesson Overview, which includes the Mathematics Overview, Vocabulary Builder, and Student Companion

    • Step 1: Explore, which includes the Model & Discuss or Explore & Reason

    • Step 2: Understand & Apply which includes the Essential Question, Examples, Try It!, Habits of Mind, Differentiated Support, Concept Summary, Do You UNDERSTAND?, and Do You Know HOW?

    • Step 3: Practice & Problem Solving which includes the Practice and Problem Solving Exercises

    • Step 4: Assess & Differentiate, which includes the Lesson Quiz, Differentiated Intervention, and Video Tutorials

  • Each Topic ends with the Topic Review, Topic Assessment, Topic Performance Assessment, and Benchmark Assessment (if applicable).

  • Student materials include appropriate font size and placement of direction. There is ample space in the printable Student Task Statements, Assessment PDFs, and workbooks for students to capture calculations and write answers.

  • When images, graphics, or models are included, they clearly communicate information that supports students' understanding of topics, texts, or concepts.

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Materials provide teacher guidance for the use of embedded technology to support and enhance student learning, when applicable.

The materials reviewed for enVisionMath A/G/A provide teacher guidance for the use of embedded technology to support and enhance student learning, when applicable. The materials provide teachers with multiple easy access points for technology and with specific guidance provided in the supplementary handouts.

Examples of teacher guidance for the use of embedded technology include:

  • Examples from the “Let’s Go Digital!” Handout,

    • Tools “Open the Tools menu anytime to find a variety of interactive tools that you and your students can use. Check out the Game Center and Math Tools.”

    • Planning a Topic “…Then, review the Today’s Challenge problems. Notice that each problem of the five-day challenge uses the same data with increasing difficulty each day. Consider displaying the problem at the beginning of the day and having students use the DrawPad tools to respond...”

    • Teaching a Lesson “...Start each lesson with the problem-based Solve & Share task. Display the problem from your computer and use the DrawPad tools to model your students’ ideas...”

  • An example from the Assessment Handout is, “Additional Assessment Options On Savvas Realize, you can customize assessments to meet your instructional needs. To explore these options, click Customize under the assessment name. You can modify the title, the description, and whether the test should count toward mastery. To add questions, click Add items from test bank and search the bank of test items by standard or keyword. You can also add your own assessments. Select Create Content menu to upload files, add links, or build your own tests. Finally, check out ExamView test generator in the Tools menu.”

  • All of the handouts mentioned above are also available as Tutorial Videos.

  • An example from the Savvas Realize help page is, “Remove Students from a Realize Class. You can remove students from a Realize class using the instructions in this topic. To remove a student that was imported from Google Classroom, see Remove Students Imported From Google Classroom. 1. Click Classes on the top menu bar, then select the class. 2. Click Students & groups on the left. 3. Click the 3-dot menu next to the student you want to remove, then click Remove Student.” Pictures are included with some steps to provide additional guidance.