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Assessing Math Concepts - the “New” Assessments for K-3 Mathematics as defined in the CCSS-Math

The Common Core Standards-Math (CCSS-M) defines what students should understand and be able to do in their study of mathematics. The Core Standards document does not only identify particular math concepts to be achieved but emphasizes the importance of the higher order thinking skills necessary for mathematical proficiency.

The improvements in math education recommended by the Common Core Standards in mathematics are strongly aligned with Assessing Math Concepts.


Kathy Richardson’s ground-breaking work represents the next steps defined in the CCSS-Math. Assessing Math Concepts (AMC) presents teachers with a continuum of assessments that follows the stages of children’s development of math concepts (Critical Learning Phases) so teachers can identify where children are in their development and provide appropriate instruction. These assessments are the next step in math assessments. These are the assessments for the future of mathematics education as defined in the CCSS-M.


The Critical Learning Phases identified by Kathy Richardson and assessed in Assessing Math Concepts are the “learning pathways” described in the CCSS document. Richardson’s research into how children develop an understanding of the core concepts of mathematics reveals certain essential ideas that are milestones in this process. For each major mathematical idea, there are certain understandings that must be in place to ensure the student is truly learning and not simply imitating procedures. When children receive instruction before they have these foundational ideas in place they may memorize the steps without understanding and will not grasp the underlying logic of the mathematics they need for future growth. AMC provides the tool for teachers to identify the stages of development, or Critical Learning Phase, a student has achieved. These insights provide teachers with the most comprehensive information to provide targeted instruction to meet each student at their specific level. AMC is the “new thinking” needed today in mathematics education as stated in the CCSS-Math.


AMC assessment data uncover students’ strategies, misconceptions, and understanding of the core concepts of number. The assessments are designed to make teachers’ classroom instruction more effective. AMC reveal what students understand and what they still need to learn.

AMC Reports

The web-based version of AMC provides teachers with reports that can help them inform their instruction, monitor student progress, and identify students for intervention.