Research shows that early math proficiency is one of the strongest predictors of long-term academic achievement, even more so than early reading skills. Greater focus on, and investment in, early math could have an outsized benefit to long-term achievement, similar to recent targeted initiatives in early literacy.

Research shows that early math proficiency is one of the strongest predictors of long-term academic achievement.

The need is clear: district leaders continue to express concern about persistent learning loss in mathematics, especially at the elementary level. National data reinforces those concerns: about one in four fourth graders and nearly 40% of eighth graders, including a majority of Black, Hispanic, and economically disadvantaged students, are performing below the basic level on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).

If we are serious about changing these outcomes, the work starts early. That means ensuring students build strong math foundations in the elementary grades and that those foundations are supported by high-quality instructional materials.

At EdReports, we believe curriculum plays a central role in how students experience math. Our educator-led reviews are designed to help districts and schools select materials that support deep conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and meaningful application, starting from day one.

Here are three ways EdReports reviews help decision-makers understand how materials support foundational math skills:

1. Emphasizing What Matters Most in Early Math

Instructional time is limited. That’s why EdReports reviews evaluate whether materials prioritize the most critical content, what we refer to as the “major work of the grade.”

In our latest K-2 math review tools, we look for at least 75% of instructional time to focus on this core content. This includes number sense, operations, and place value—areas that research and practitioners alike agree are essential for long-term success.

In our latest K-2 math review tools, we look for at least 75% of instructional time to focus on the major work of the grade.

Too often, early math materials attempt to cover too much or revisit content students have already mastered. EdReports helps districts identify materials that stay focused and ensure students spend meaningful time developing the concepts that will support their future learning.

2. Illuminating Strengths and Gaps, Whether You’re Selecting or Already Using Materials

In times of fiscal uncertainty, educators face tough decisions about how to invest limited resources. Research shows that investing in high-quality instructional materials is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve student outcomes; it is more effective, in fact, than reducing class sizes.

Whether a district is selecting new materials or seeking to strengthen the implementation of existing ones, EdReports reviews offer actionable information. Our reports provide in-depth evidence about how materials address rigor, coherence, and the Standards for Mathematical Practice.

Our reports provide in-depth evidence about how materials address rigor, coherence, and the Standards for Mathematical Practice.

Our updated 2.0 math tools bring even greater clarity. For example:

  • Rigor: Materials must address all three aspects—conceptual understanding, procedural skill and fluency, and application—with opportunities for students to engage with each.
  • Balance: We use a binary scoring system to evaluate whether materials treat all aspects of rigor both independently and in connection with one another.
  • Math Practices: Each of the eight Standards for Mathematical Practice is scored separately, allowing educators to see where materials support the development of key habits of mind.

These insights can inform purchasing decisions, guide implementation planning, or help districts identify areas where supplemental support may be needed.

3. Prioritizing Assessment That Supports Instruction

High-quality materials should help teachers understand what students know and what they need next. That includes formative and summative assessments that are aligned, developmentally appropriate, and designed to inform instruction, not just generate a score.

EdReports review criteria reflect what educators seek in new curriculum purchases: assessments that are integrated, intentional, and actionable.

In our 2.0 review tools, we have shifted evaluation of assessment components earlier in the process (Gateway 1) to ensure this critical area is not overlooked. We examine whether:

  • Assessments are aligned to grade-level standards.
  • Formative checks for understanding are embedded throughout instruction.
  • Tools and guidance are accessible for teachers, not just assessment designers

These criteria reflect what we have heard from educators and what they seek in new curriculum purchases: assessments that are integrated, intentional, and actionable, especially in the early grades where identifying and correcting misconceptions can make a lasting difference.

Building a Foundation for Algebra and for Life

Early math instruction lays the groundwork not just for arithmetic, but for algebra readiness, problem-solving, and lifelong confidence with numbers. When students develop a solid foundation in the elementary grades, they are better prepared for the more complex thinking required in middle and high school math.

When students develop a solid foundation in the elementary grades, they are better prepared for the more complex thinking required in middle and high school math.

Looking ahead, district leaders expect a growing emphasis on algebra readiness. Many are also seeking materials that better serve multilingual learners. EdReports reviews have included evidence on supports for multilingual learners (MLLs) since 2020. Our most recent reports include even more data to help decision-makers select materials that reflect the needs of all students.

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