Before you start
This training includes a Companion Guide to capture notes, reflections, and ideas as you engage in the modules and prepare to teach Illustrative Mathematics lessons.
Download GuideIntroduction
At IM, we envision a world where all learners know, use, and enjoy mathematics. We are honored to partner with you in bringing this vision to life in classrooms. We’ll also explore how, with teachers’ expert facilitation, the curriculum is built to cultivate classrooms where students experience joy as they become even more powerful knowers and doers of mathematics.
IM uses a design structure that intentionally elicits students’ ideas and experiences. Teachers can then use those ideas to drive learning. The overarching design structure of the curriculum supports this work through three stages: invitation to the mathematics, deep study of concepts and procedures, and consolidating and applying mathematical ideas.
Stages of the Overarching Design Structure
Take a look at how the intentional design structure is integrated at the unit, lesson, and activity levels.
The overarching design structure of the curriculum. © 2026 Illustrative Mathematics. All rights reserved.
The overarching design structure positions students’ ideas and experiences as an integral part of a coherent and accessible progression of mathematics. Continue reading to learn how this architecture shows up in the course design.