Making Problem-Based Math Accessible

Many schools use Illustrative Mathematics® because it offers grade-level tasks that promote reasoning and discussion. The challenge is that many students enter those lessons without the foundational skills or background knowledge needed to fully participate.

The Proficiency Project helps teachers maintain the rigor of problem-based instruction while providing the structure students need to access it.

We do not replace Illustrative Mathematics® lessons. We strengthen lessons by adding clear, explicit instructional supports that help students engage more confidently with grade-level mathematics.

What This Looks Like in Practice

Teachers continue to implement the key components of Illustrative Mathematics® lessons (including language routines, collaborative problem solving, and mathematical discussion).

The difference is that teachers add structured supports that increase access:

• Explicit modeling to clarify new mathematical ideas before students begin problem solving

• Skill Focus graphic organizers that break complex skills into definition, procedure, examples, and non-examples

• Fluency routines that strengthen foundational knowledge and reduce cognitive load

• Guided practice that helps students build confidence before independent work

These structures help students understand what the math is asking and how to approach it, while still allowing them to reason, discuss, and explore.

Designed for Diverse Learners

This approach is especially powerful in classrooms serving diverse learners, including:

• English learners

• Students with IEPs

• Students with unfinished learning or significant skill gaps

When instruction is structured and explicit, more students can participate meaningfully in rigorous mathematics.

Students do not need easier math.
They need clearer access to grade-level math.

The Proficiency Project framework helps teachers provide that access while preserving the strengths of problem-based learning.