The following refers to the 2021 draft version of the California Mathematics Framework. Updated commentaries, based on the final draft (3/14/2022) of the framework - Second Field Review, are available here.
The new framework devotes only 13% of its text to math content standards. As a result, math classes will no longer have math as their primary focus.
The learning of specific mathematical content and procedures has been relegated to minimal status. The framework abandons the standards it was tasked to uphold.
It replaces a focus on “math class” with something more akin to sociology, adopting a politicized stance of learning and applying math in a one-sided interpretation.
Students of all backgrounds, motivations, and abilities will be limited to taking the same math classes until 11th grade.
By blocking advancement and de-emphasizing intervention, while shifting the focus from math content standards, the draft framework will create more inequity.
Math content standards mastery is necessary to develop the math proficiency required for coveted STEM careers, despite what the draft framework authors say.
Advanced classes are completely removed for all kids until 11th grade. All kids are forced into the same class until then regardless of their level of preparation, motivation, and ability. Acceleration is prohibited. Holding kids back like this prevents them from reaching important mathematical fluency levels by the time they are in 12th grade, thus leaving them unprepared for college majors in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).
The authors of the framework make highly misleading claims that are not supported by research.
