Paper Abstract

SYP: Math Education- Public School versus RSM

In my paper, I hope to take a deep look at the educational model of the Russian School

of Mathematics (RSM) and its potential application on a bigger scale. To research RSM, I read

about the theorist, Lev Vygotsky, who created the pedagogy which was replicated in RSM. RSM

stresses the process in which one thinks, rather than the solution. By doing so, students increase

their abilities in analytical thinking and reasoning. In order to understand why there is such an

early introduction of algebra, a unique and significant part of the school, I held an interview

with Inessa Rifkin, the founder of the school. Inessa Rifkin also answered questions regarding

classroom environment and teacher-student relationships to show more of Vygotsky’s influence

in the school’s mission, teaching, and application. As a former student of the school, I have a

unique angle to compare RSM’s way of teaching math and the public school method, and share

my experiences in both. With my comparison of both systems, the RSM model brings hope of

a better future generation due to its unique curriculum, classroom environment, and contingent

mission.