New publications

A new ACER report, Measure for Measure, presents evidence from a number of key sources that the academic achievement of Australian students declined slightly between 2000 and 2012. Measure for Measure draws on international surveys like the Programme for International Student Achievement, the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study, and the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study, as well as Australia’s National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy and National Assessment Program sample surveys. The analysis found an overall decline in the reading and mathematics levels of Australian 15-year-olds. There was a small improvement in Year 4 mathematics levels since 1994 and a small improvement in Year 3 reading levels from 2008 to 2012, but a growing gap between the most advantaged and the least advantaged secondary schools in Australia. The report also notes variations in reading performance between different states and territories. Adapted from publisher’s description.

Young people who leave school early are at greater risk of experiencing long-term unemployment and slipping into social exclusion as a result. This paper looks at the risk factors associated with young people exiting the education system prematurely, particularly in a family context. The impact of parental separation and changes to family structure on academic outcomes, and the continued importance of parental involvement in education in the secondary school years, are further explored. Key messages for child and family support practitioners who are working with families with adolescent children are provided. Adapted from publisher's description.

The Contemporary Music Course is an online subscription-based music theory course, which can be used by classroom teachers and students to reinforce key concepts. A series of video tutorials and printable activities leads from the basics of music theory through to composition and sequencing of music. Adapted from publisher's description.

Supported by interviews with students and teachers, the author describes how a school district in the USA reformed its year 8 teaching algebra course in pursuit of greater equity and opportunity for socio-economically disadvantaged students. Adapted from publisher's description. See also review in the Education Review 29 July 2013. 

This book presents ideas developed by Paul Cobb and his colleagues that have significantly influenced the field of mathematics education over the past three decades. The volume aims to bring these ideas together to present a clear view for readers of how the field has changed during that time. Adapted from publisher's description.

The book shows describes professional learning communities (PLCs) and how they can be developed at the school and system levels. It includes a rubric to help PLCs measure their progress; organisational structures, human resources, and protocols required to empower PLCs; and stories from schools of PLC breakthroughs and best PLC practices. Adapted from publisher's description.