Mathematical Practice (MP) Chart

Overview

Mathematical Practice (MP) refers to thinking and behavior that students are expected to use as they are working through lessons. Teachers can use the MP chart to identify which units and lessons to look for specific student behaviors. Each MP is aimed at building a deep integrated understanding of math through active engagement, reasoning, problem solving and communication. They also support teachers in planning instruction that promotes mathematical habits of mind.

The MP chart identifies which unit and lesson contains specific MPs. The distribution of MPs may vary based on the content of the unit/lesson. Advanced Lessons are not included in this chart.

Here is a list of learning targets for each Mathematical Practice (MP) to help teachers and students identify when they are actively engaging with a specific MP. These learning targets guide students in articulating what they have learned and why, with a focus on developing a deep and transferable understanding of mathematics.

MP.1: Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.

I can understand the problem given to me.

I can keep trying even when the solution is not immediately clear.

I can check my answers to see if they make sense.

MP.2: Reason abstractly and quantitatively.

I can represent a problem using numbers, symbols, or drawings.

I can make sense of quantities and their relationships in problem situations.

I understand the meaning of numbers in the context of the problem.

MP.3: Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others.

I can explain my thinking and understand others' strategies.

I can respectfully challenge ideas that I disagree with and provide evidence for my arguments.

I can ask clarifying questions or suggest improvements to others' strategies.

MP.4: Model with Mathematics.

I can use math to solve real-world problems.

I can choose the right math tools (like diagrams, tables, graphs, equations) to solve problems.

I can interpret my mathematical results in the context of the situation and reflect on whether the results make sense.

MP.5: Use appropriate tools strategically.

I can decide when and what tools (such as protractors, rulers, calculators, software) to use to solve problems.

I understand that different tools can be used for different purposes and can enhance my understanding.

MP.6: Attend to precision.

I can accurately calculate and measure.

I use clear and precise language to discuss and write about mathematics.

I can clearly explain my reasoning and the steps I took to solve a problem.

MP.7: Look for and make use of structure.

I can identify patterns and structures in math problems.

I can use known mathematical properties to simplify complex problems.

I recognize and can build on repeated reasoning to solve problems more efficiently.

MP.8: Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.

I can notice when calculations are repeated and look for general methods and shortcuts.

I can evaluate the reasonableness of my answers based on my understanding of the problem.

I understand and can explain why specific patterns or formulas occur.

Chart

Disclaimer: Updated through Unit 1 for Grades 4 and 5

The graph will continue to update as units become available through March 2025.

Grade 4

Grade 5