Concordia International School Hanoi is helping reshape the way that math is taught. Concordia has been selected to be part of a transformative pilot project under development by researchers at Michigan State University called Connected Mathematics Project (CMP4). This pioneering program was developed to address gaps that appear in the Middle School level to reinforce foundational concepts such as proportional reasoning and basic algebra. The Connected Mathematics Project moves math curriculum away from rote memorization and towards problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking.
According to educators involved in designing CMP4, Concordia's commitment to innovation and academic excellence made this collaboration a perfect fit. Concordia’s involvement in the CMP4 pilot program is a testament to the school’s commitment to math learning. Through this program, students are not just learning math—they are learning how to think mathematically, how to solve real-world problems, and how to collaborate with others to find solutions. This dynamic approach to math education is preparing them for success in a rapidly changing world, where problem-solving skills are more important than ever. The fourth edition of CMP is a continued improvement of the program. This edition incorporates added use of technology, and its investigations feature realistic situations which students of today can relate to and would actually encounter.
But what exactly makes CMP4 Math so different?
Historically, traditional math instruction has often followed a pattern: the teacher would present an example on the board, students would copy the process, and then complete a series of similar problems on their own. This method, while functional in some contexts, often failed to engage students or promote a deeper understanding of the material.
CMP4, on the other hand, takes a radically different approach. Instead of simply instructing students on how to solve specific problems, the program immerses students in larger, real-world problems that they must investigate and solve. This is known as the “problem-of-the-day” approach, where students are presented with a complex situation that requires critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
One of the standout features of CMP4 is its focus on inclusivity. Each problem of the day is designed with a “low floor, high ceiling” approach. This means that every student, regardless of their skill level, can engage with the problem. For some, the problem may be a simple introduction to a new concept, while for others, it may challenge them to think more deeply and explore advanced mathematical ideas. This approach allows students to enter the problem at their own level, but provides opportunities for them to stretch their thinking and grow in their understanding.
Teachers also play a crucial role in this process. Instead of simply providing the answers, teachers guide students through the problem-solving process by asking targeted questions, offering hints, and providing additional resources as needed. The goal is to help students develop the mathematical skills they need, while also teaching them how to approach problems creatively and collaboratively.
"Using the CMP4 curriculum, which opens each lesson with an initial challenge, has pushed our Concordia students to truly sound like problem solvers," said Mrs. Garcia.
Teachers have found that CMP4 is changing the way they interact with students. One teacher shared their experience of being able to “click in” on student conversations through digital tools, allowing them to monitor student progress in real-time and engage in more meaningful discussions. This technological integration is enhancing the learning experience by allowing teachers to track student understanding without interrupting their work.
Students at Concordia are also thriving in this environment. Teachers have noticed that students who previously struggled to engage in math discussions are now participating in deep, thoughtful conversations about mathematical concepts. By working in groups and tackling complex problems together, students are developing critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the material.
One of the Middle School math teachers Ms. Zimbrick shared a particularly notable instance where a student demonstrated an elevated level of interest in learning. The student spent an evening independently exploring mathematical concepts and returned the next day eager to share their insights with classmates. This increased engagement highlights how CMP4’s focus on situational and problem-solving strategies, rather than strictly algorithmic methods, creates opportunities for deeper exploration, critical thinking, and collaboration.
“CMP4 Math allows students to be active and learn bit by bit, step by step by solving different problems, and the key points are very clear. For example, we're learning about ratios, and CMP4 clearly defines what ratios are and then gives examples, so we understand the concept. It's very clear and easy to understand, and that allows us to make good progress as the math unit goes along,” said Avy (G6)
One of the key aspects of the CMP4 curriculum is its focus on developing problem-solvers rather than just calculators. Many students can perform basic arithmetic, but the goal of CMP4 is to help students understand the why behind the math, not just the how. Teachers are encouraged to help students explore different ways of solving problems, whether through equations, graphs, or tables, and to understand how these mathematical tools can be applied to real-world situations.
This shift in focus is helping students develop a deeper understanding of mathematics as a tool for problem-solving, rather than just a series of isolated algorithms. This approach is particularly important in the context of business, technology, and everyday life, where math is not just about memorizing formulas, but about using mathematical thinking to solve complex problems. As the program continues to grow, Concordia will remain at the forefront of this educational evolution, exploring new ways to engage students and empower them to become the problem-solvers of tomorrow.
Learn more about Concordia’s Middle School program
- Middle School