Learning mathematics is essential in finding answers to real-life questions. The study of mathematicshelps students to think logically, solve problems, and understand spatial relationships. The conceptslearned in mathematics courses help students communicate clearly and use logical reasoning to makesense of their world. TEKS instruction in mathematics throughout elementary, middle, and highschool will build the foundation necessary for students to succeed in advanced math and sciencecourses and later in their careers. The six strands identified in the mathematics curriculum for kindergarten through eighth grade are thefoundation skills necessary for high school–level mathematics courses. The TAKS assessmentobjectives are closely aligned with the six strands identified in the TEKS curriculum. For example, inTAKS Objective 1 students are to “demonstrate an understanding of numbers, operations, andquantitative reasoning”; in the TEKS curriculum the first strand identified is “number, operation, andquantitative reasoning.” This close alignment reflects the important link between TAKS and theTEKS curriculum. In fact, the TAKS mathematics tests are based on those TEKS student expectationsTexas educators have identified as the most critical to student achievement and progress inmathematics.