TIMSS 99 measures student achievement in mathematics and science, but it also provides educators with important information provided from student, teacher, and administrator questionnaires concerning:

• curriculum
• instructional practices
• teacher training and professional development
• students’ background and study habits
• and school environment

For example, 28% of Naperville 8th graders reported spending one hour or more on mathematics homework on a normal school day. 61 % of Singapore students reported spending one or more hours on mathematics homework on a normal school day. 56% of NCUSD 203 students indicated a high level of educational aids in the home such as computer, study desk/table for own use and a dictionary.

By examining other high performing countries’ education systems, District 203 can better understand different approaches to teaching and learning mathematics and science. This data provides criteria by which NCUSD 203 can examine its curriculum and instruction. This analysis will allow us to enhance the mathematics and science learning environment we provide for our students.