Curriculum Development

Project SEED's curriculum consists of topics chosen from advanced mathematics courses such as algebra, pre-calculus, group theory, number theory, calculus, and analytic geometry. Project SEED mathematics specialists are trained to take these topics and develop discovery lessons appropriate for various grade levels, from elementary to graduate school.

Mastery of advanced topics gives students a sense of accomplishment while improving their arithmetic, algebraic thinking and reasoning skills. Students are motivated to solve arithmetic problems that arise in the context of investigating more challenging concepts. They gain a sense of their own strong capabilities making them more receptive to the regular mathematics curriculum. An introduction to advanced topics prepares them for success in higher-level courses.

Sample Curriculum Topics by Grade Level

Grade	SEED curriculum	Grade level skills introduced or reinforced
3	Analytic geometry and functions	Multiplication and division, use of variables, algebraic reasoning, graphing in the coordinate plane
4	Group properties of integers and rational numbers	Operations with negative numbers and fractions, Distributive property and other laws of mathematics
5	Exponents including derivation of the rule for multiplying exponential terms and its use to define zero, negative and fractional exponents	Multiplication and division of fractions and decimals, variables, proof structures, algebraic thinking
6	Summations using negative powers and limits	Variables, addition of fractions and decimals,
7	Complex Numbers	Operations with negative numbers, square roots, multiplication of binomials
8	Derivatives and slopes of tangents to curves (calculus)	Slopes of linear equations, multiplication of polynomials, operations with fractions and decimals

There are a number of reasons why Project SEED bases its curriculum on advanced mathematics.

Mathematics which students have not seen previously is not tainted by prior failure experiences. All students begin at the same level giving each student an equal opportunity to succeed.

Mathematics is culturally-neutral, not biased significantly in favor of one background or another. Since written mathematics is a symbolic language of its own, students who may not have strong verbal skills can still succeed.

Mathematics is intellectually rigorous. Those who can "do math" are perceived as intelligent and academically talented. By succeeding in learning challenging higher level concepts, students view themselves as successful and capable of any intellectual endeavor. The expectations that their parents and teachers hold for them improve as well.

Students who master algebraic concepts in elementary school are more likely to succeed in high school algebra. This starts them on the path to college and careers. Studies by College Board, the U.S. Department of Education and the National Educational Longitudinal Study show that students who complete these classes are more likely to graduate from high school and enroll in college.