Tajikistan Grade 5 Curriculum - Mathematics

In 2015, Tajikistan introduced a competency-based education (CBE) curriculum, shifting to a student-centered approach. This reform aims to cultivate higher-level cognitive skills and 21st-century skills. The Ministry of Education, with support from the Global Partnership for Education (GPE), the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and UNICEF, has spearheaded the development of new teaching and learning materials aligned with CBE and international standards.

Curriculum Development and Implementation

New materials for Grade 5 Tajik language and mathematics, including student workbooks, textbooks, and teacher guides, have been developed and piloted in 30 schools. These materials are designed to be engaging and relevant, incorporating cultural and linguistic elements specific to Tajikistan. The final versions are expected to be distributed system-wide by mid-2025. This initiative forms the basis for broader CBE reforms, including revisions to materials for other Grade 5 subjects and grades 6-11. Concurrent revisions to primary education materials (grades 1-4) are underway with support from USAID.

Key Features of the New Materials

The new materials emphasize active learning, critical thinking, and self-directed learning. They are structured around the four pillars of CBE: student-centeredness, personalization, relatability, and development orientation. Two formats for student materials have been piloted: reusable textbooks and consumable workbooks. Teacher resources include guides with methodological support and supplemental materials for practice, facilitating a transition from teacher-led rote learning to interactive, student-focused instruction.

Piloting and Refinement

The piloting phase involved classroom observations and feedback collection from teachers throughout an academic year. This process allowed for revisions to the materials, improving clarity and adjusting difficulty levels. Teacher professional development was also informed by the observed challenges and misunderstandings.

Funding and Future Plans

The development of these new materials has been supported by a GPE Multiplier grant, co-financing from IsDB, and contributions from the Tajik government. Future plans include revising materials for other grade levels, continuing the commitment to CBE reform in Tajikistan.