A recent assessment of mathematics performance around the world ranked the United States twenty-eighth out of forty countries in the study. When the level of spending was taken into account, we sank to the very bottom of the list. We are falling rapidly behind the rest of the developed world when it comes to math education-and the consequences are dire. In this straightforward and inspiring book, Jo Boaler, a professor of mathematics education at Stanford for nine years, outlines concrete solutions that can change things for the better, including classroom approaches, essential strategies for students, and advice for parents. This is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the mathematical and scientific future of our country.

Understanding the urgency -- What is math? : and why do we all need it? -- What's going wrong in classrooms? : identifying the problems -- A vision for a better future : effective classroom approaches -- Taming the monster : new forms of testing that encourage learning -- Stuck in the slow lane : how American grouping systems perpetuate low achievement -- Paying the price for sugar and spice : how girls and women are kept out of math and science -- Key strategies and ways of working -- Giving children the best mathematical start: activities and advice -- Making a difference through work with schools.