27Curriculum design details the approach to modules, lessons, and assessment in A Story of
Functions. This chapter describes the key elements in the modules, as well as the role each
plays in successful implementation of the new standards. We provide a wealth of information
about how to achieve the components of instructional rigor (fluency, concept development,
and application) that the standards demand.
Approach to Module Structure
One of the first steps in designing a curriculum to implement the standards is to determine
the grouping and sequencing of the standards at each grade level or course. This process
should be well thought out, and decisions should be based on sound rationale. It is imperative
that standards for a particular grade level or course be organized appropriately and addressed
adequately.
Making key information in each module or unit of study available to classroom teachers
helps to ensure successful implementation of the standards. The authors of the curriculum
included numerous features to assist teachers not only in their day-to-day classroom activities
but also in developing their understanding of the mathematics content and the standards.
Each module has four primary parts: Module Overview, Topic Overviews, Lessons, and
Assessments:
● (^) The Module Overview, rich with valuable information, introduces the key components of
each module. It outlines the progression of the lessons from the beginning of the module
to the end. The components of the overview are as follows:
○ (^) The Table of Contents serves as a pacing guide and indicates the topics in the
module along with the associated standards. The lessons in each topic are listed
with each estimated to take one 45-minute instructional period. Also noted are the
timing of the Mid-Module and End-of-Module Assessments.
○ (^) The opening narrative explains the progression of the mathematics through the
module topic by topic.