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Standards and Instruction

Next Generation Learning Standards

Additional Resources

New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards Glossary Grades PreK-8

The New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards Glossary Grades PreK-8 was designed to support New York State school districts and educators as they implement the New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards (adopted 2017) beginning in the school year 2022-2023. In New York State, curriculum decisions are determined at each local school district, and this glossary is an optional resource for school districts to utilize. The guidance is provided to support districts with the creation or revision of units of instruction aligned to the NYS Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards.

Mathematical language provides a common platform for students to explore complex topics and ideas from many perspectives and to construct viable mathematical arguments. The Glossary is intended to provide definitions of some mathematical terms used in PreK-grade 8 level instruction and includes terms found in the New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards. This non-exhaustive glossary clarifies for students and teachers what is meant by various terms when the New York State Education Department uses them for mathematics. At times, there are alternative definitions for some glossary terms within the mathematical community and some terms/definitions contained within this glossary can be used in different standard areas. However, it is important to use these terms as they are used within the Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards. After numerous reviews in consultation with NYS educators, we have adopted the mathematics definitions contained in this glossary. This is an optional resource, however, NYSED encourages all teachers to become familiar with these definitions and use them consistently throughout a student's educational program.

Educators from around New York State have helped NYSED build this glossary of mathematical vocabulary pertaining to the Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards. Creating this glossary was a collaborative effort that gave educators the opportunity to identify what to include and why these definitions are important. Multiple committees of educators spent time to build consensus around the definitions found within.

Some of the groups involved in the creation and review of the glossary are:

  • Mathematics Content Advisory Panel
  • Broome-Tioga BOCES
  • Onondaga-Cortland-Madison BOCES
  • Putnam-Northern Westchester BOCES
  • Questar III BOCES
  • Office of Curriculum and Instruction
  • Office of State Assessment
  • The 2005 NYS Mathematics Glossary (grades 9-12)

Questions about the New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards Glossary Grades PreK-8 can be directed to standards@nysed.gov or (518) 474-5922.