18th Annual Student Research Conference
Mathematics and Computer Science
Minor Modifications for Major Changes:
Increasing the Achievement Level of African American Students in Mathematics
Tiara L. Pettis
Dr. Susan LaGrassa, Faculty Mentor
African American underachievement in mathematics is problematic in high schools throughout the United States. Designed by Dr. Robert P. Moses, an African American Civil Rights activist and high school mathematics teacher, the Algebra Project is a creative tool used to teach algebra and other mathematics courses to underprivileged students so they will complete a college preparatory mathematics curriculum in high school. In this study we develop recommendations for teaching mathematics to African American students based on these students’ cultural heritage, learning style needs, principles and standards developed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and the exemplary efforts of the Algebra Project.
Keywords: African American, achievement, mathematics, learning style, Algebra Project
Topic(s):Education
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 8-5
Location: VH 1408
Time: 9:15