Mathematics education researchers suggest that it is important for teachers to select mathematics tasks that align with their goals for students; however, this can be challenging as there are many facets of alignment to consider. In this article, I present a rubric that details the alignment between tasks and learning goals. This rubric was…

This paper explores what happens when students engage with mathematical tasks that make no attempt to be connected with students' everyday life experiences. The investigation draws on the work of educators who call for a broader view of what might count as real and relevant contexts for studying mathematics. It investigates students' experiences…

Proposes the use of procedural task analysis as a tool to assess a person's mental processes during problem solving in science education research. Uses transcriptions of videotape or audiotape problem-solving sessions to identify students' knowledge structures and misconceptions. (MDH)