The Metamorphosis of Mathematics Education. FOCUS 27.

This booklet explains the background, rationale, and issues addressed in the NCTM Curriculum and Evaluation Standards. A detailed vignette of a classroom lesson is presented as an example of what is envisioned for the future. A comparison of the differences between the reform urged by the Standards and the efforts of the "New Math" movement is described. Some issues discussed include: (1) the emphasis on problem solving and reasoning; (2) the importance of making connections between mathematics and other disciplines; (3) a continuing role for rote learning; (4) accepting calculators and computers in mathematics instruction; (5) revising assessment strategies; and (6) the role teachers need to play in mathematics education reform. (DE)