Mathematics Reasoning with Connections

New post-Algebra II math course option available!

SJSU is among a state-wide group of colleges and high schools piloting a new high school mathematics course, Mathematics Reasoning with Connections (MRWC). 

The junior/senior level class, currently taught at a number of high schools in the East Side Union and Campbell Union High School Districts as well as in many other high school districts across the state, is intended to be a bridge for students who have completed Algebra II or Integrated Math III but may not be truly ready for Pre-Calculus. However, several schools have used the MRWC as a successful Pre-Calculus alternative as well. 

The MRWC curriculum, based upon the Standards for Mathematical Practice and aligned with Common Core Standards, is accepted as an advanced mathematics course by both the CSU and UC systems that fulfills the "C" area of the A-G admissions requirements.

MRWC emphasizes three overarching themes of math: Reasoning with numbers, reasoning with functions and reasoning with equivalencies. The structure of the course challenges students to achieve a deeper level of math reasoning by emphasizing an understanding of fundamental principles. Class culture is collaborative, encouraging students to work in groups of two to struggle productively towards both conceptual understanding and procedural fluency. 

The MRWC curriculum was developed through a two-year California Department of Education grant called the California Mathematics Readiness Challenge Initiative (CMRCI). The MRWC development partnership includes Cal Poly Pomona, CSU Long Beach, CSU San Bernardino, SJSU as well as Riverside Community College, the Riverside County and San Bernardino County Offices of Education, Azusa Unified School District, Chino Valley Unified School District and many others.

Currently, the program includes 4,200 students, 22 districts, 48 schools and 95 teachers across the state. Participating Santa Clara County schools include: Silver Creek High School, Mount Pleasant High School, Independence High School, Santa Teresa High School, Apollo High School, Evergreen Valley High School, Overfelt High School, Yerba Buena High School and Del Mar High School. 

Interested in adopting the MRWC?

In order to implement the MRWC, the following is required:

  • At least two participating math teachers per school or district (Required to attend 20 days of professional learning throughout the year.)
  • One coach or TOSA per school or district.
  • One administrator and one counselor per school (Both required to attend two half-day information sessions.)

The expected cost is $4,000 per teacher to cover the cost of the professional development activities and materials as well as an additional $2,000 summer stipend.

The schedule of professional learning activities includes:

  • 4-6 days in the spring (pre-implementation)
  • 10 days in the summer (pre-implementation)
  • 4-6 days in the fall (during implementation) 

Want to learn more?

For further questions, or to request a presentation about MRWC at your school site, contact SJSU College Readiness Programs Manager, Tom Reisz at tom.reisz@sjsu.edu.

For further information about all fourth year math options created or endorsed by the CSU, please visit the CSU Bridge Courses webpage.