National Math Panel: Major Topics of School Algebra

Includes these recommended practices
Link to The National Mathematics Advisory Panel (NMP) Final Report and Reports of the Task Groups and Subcommittees The National Mathematics Advisory Panel (NMP) Final Report and Reports of the Task Groups and Subcommittees The National Mathematics Advisory Panel conducted a systematic and rigorous review of the best available scientific evidence for the teaching and learning of mathematics and provided recommendations that lay out concrete steps to improve mathematics education, with a specific focus on preparation for learning algebra. The Panel worked in task groups and subcommittees to address areas of mathematics teaching and learning including Conceptual Knowledge and Skills, Learning Processes, Instructional Practices, Teachers and Teacher Education, and Assessment. Five task groups carried out detailed syntheses of research evidence that addressed each group's major questions and met standards of methodological quality. Three subcommittees were charged with completion of a particular advisory function for the Panel. The research findings cited in these reports underpin the mathematics practices and content included on the Doing What Works website.
Link to National Mathematics Advisory Panel Multimedia Overview

Multimedia Overview National Mathematics Advisory Panel

Watch this brief overview to learn about the purpose and findings of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel and research-based recommendations for improving mathematics instruction. Find out why it's important for schools to focus on teaching critical mathematics skills to better prepare students for entry into algebra. (3:41 min)

Explore these recommended practices:

  • <<Topics of Algebra
    Teach the comprehensive set of major topics in algebra recommended by the National Mathematics Advisory Panel.
  • <<Multiple Paths
    Expect that all students will learn school algebra through a coherent progression of topics.
Link to National Math Panel: Major Topics of School Algebra Multimedia Overview

Multimedia Overview

National Math Panel: Major Topics of School Algebra


Watch this overview to learn about the major topics of school algebra recommended by the National Mathematics Advisory Panel and two identified practices to support authentic algebra instruction for all students. (4:43 min)
Link to The Major Topics of School Algebra Download

Visual Diagram The Major Topics of School Algebra

This visual diagram illustrates two algebra practices based on the findings and recommendations presented in the National Mathematics Advisory Panel report. Use the diagram as a way to engage school mathematics leaders in discussion about helping students learn school algebra and providing multiple paths to ensure that all students succeed. The diagram can be used to review key findings and algebra topics recommended by the Panel.

Expert Interview

Key Messages of the Panel Report

Larry R. Faulkner, Ph.D.
Houston Endowment
Chair, National Mathematics Advisory Panel and Member, Conceptual Knowledge and Skills Task Group

Dr. Faulkner discusses the Panel's key recommendations, especially focused on important messages for teachers, such as providing a strong foundation for children’s success in algebra and future mathematics achievement, strengthening teachers’ knowledge of mathematics, and ensuring mathematics proficiency for all students. He also addresses the Panel's hopes for how the research findings will be used. (6:03 min)

Expert Interview

Understanding the Major Topics of School Algebra

Wilfried Schmid, Ph.D.
Harvard University
Member, National Mathematics Advisory Panel and Conceptual Knowledge and Skills and Assessment Task Groups

Listen to Dr. Schmid provide a brief overview of the Panel’s recommended major topics and implications of the Panel’s findings for algebra instruction, including the importance of strengthening teacher knowledge and building student understanding of the topics and the connections among them. (7:11 min)