Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 88: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the rationale for the introduction of project maths as an additional subject in the secondary school education system in the context of the rollout of pilot project for this subject. [19238/11]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Project Maths is a major programme of reform in mathematics in second level schools, which is designed to encourage better understanding of mathematics, to reinforce its practical relevance to everyday life, and to ensure better continuity between primary and second level, and junior and senior cycle. It began in 24 project schools in September 2008 and was introduced in all schools in September 2010. Project Maths provides for a professional development model under which change will be implemented in various areas of maths on a phased basis. The curriculum will be phased in over a number of years covering the following five strands of mathematics: Phase 1: Strand 1- statistics and probability; Strand 2- geometry and trigonometry Phase 2: Strand 3- number; Strand 4- algebra Phase 3: functions

Strands 1 and 2 began in all schools in September 2010 for first examination in 2012 at Leaving Certificate and 2013 at Junior Certificate. Strands 3 and 4 will begin in 2011, and strand 5 will start in 2012.

A comprehensive programme of professional development is being provided for teachers. Support will be provided on a rolling basis as each strand of the curriculum is implemented, and will continue until at least 2013.

Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 89: To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the process for the evaluation of the pilot project maths subject; and if this is to be provided prior to examination correction for the 2011 leaving certificate students. [19239/11]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Project Maths is a major programme of reform in mathematics in second level schools, which is designed to encourage better understanding of mathematics, to reinforce its practical relevance to everyday life, and to ensure better continuity between primary and second level, and junior and senior cycle. It began in 24 project schools in September 2008 and was introduced in all schools in September 2010. Project Maths provides for a professional development model under which change will be implemented in various areas of maths on a phased basis.

Project Maths has been widely welcomed by the partners in education and the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs. Implementation of the programme is monitored by a steering committee representing my Department, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment and the State Examinations Commission. An external research and evaluation programme is also planned.