Supporting Science

Mathematics helps us to understand science and to design, conduct, and analyze the results of scientific experiments. Science requires us to collect data, interpret it for significant patterns, and make conclusions that further our knowledge. To collect and analyze data, students must be able to apply mathematical content and practices. This includes selecting appropriate tools, using those tools to model the data by describing it mathematically, and reasoning both quantitatively (to understand the data itself) and abstractly (to draw conclusions).

View an Introductory Presentation on Strategies for Supporting Science


Read the Complete Supporting Science Teaching Strategy Guide

Students—especially those who struggle with mathematics—need varied and ongoing support to develop the ability to apply their mathematical abilities to science. Here are some ways to provide this support.


  1. Provide Clear Explanations
  2. Give Students Strategies and Models
  3. Provide Ongoing Formative Assessment