Illustrative Mathematics vs OpenSciEd
Illustrative Mathematics
illustrativemathematics.orgOpenSciEd
openscied.orgSide by side
| Figure | Illustrative Mathematics | OpenSciEd |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | Yes |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| API | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Spec score · K-12 Curriculum Platforms | 7.6 (#17) | 8.1 (#11) |
| Founded | 2011 | 2018 |
| Privacy | The current terms state that the main site does not collect student information and that student-facing curriculum content can be accessed without registration or login. | The Google Classroom Uploader states that it does not transmit users’ Google data to OpenSciEd and only operates on data authorized within the user’s account. |
Plans
OpenSciEd
- OpenSciEd core curriculumFree
- OpenSciEd curriculum and resourcesFree
- Certified distributor packagesPriced on request
- Packaged curriculum from certified distributorsPriced on request
In their own words
Illustrative Mathematics
Illustrative Mathematics provides IM Math, a problem-based core mathematics curriculum for transitional kindergarten through grade 12. The IM Math v.360 sequence runs from transitional kindergarten through Algebra 2. Lessons ask students to solve meaningful problems, explain their reasoning, compare strategies, and connect mathematical ideas across lessons, units, courses, and grades. Built-in resources include discussion routines, support for English learners and students with disabilities, unit assessments, session checkpoints, and lesson cool-downs. AccessIM provides the complete curriculum online for free, with implementation resources and downloadable, printable PDFs for teachers and students, without a time limit. The curriculum aligns with the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. Schools can obtain print materials and enhanced digital platforms through IM Certified partners such as Imagine Learning, Kendall Hunt, and Kiddom. Partner platforms may add rostering, assignments, reporting, and progress monitoring.
OpenSciEd
OpenSciEd creates free science curriculum materials and professional learning resources for educators, with NGSS alignment across elementary, middle and high school. Its lessons center on scientific phenomena and student questioning, investigation and problem-solving; teachers are encouraged to adapt them. Released units can be downloaded as PDFs, Google Drive files, Word documents or PowerPoint files, and some are available in Google Classroom or Canvas versions. Free self-guided learning paths and an on-demand support library provide videos and resources for unit preparation, classroom routines and anticipating student ideas. Registration is required to access the materials and is intended for educators or parents, not K–12 students. Middle school materials use CC BY 4.0; elementary and high school materials use CC-BY-NC licensing, with noncommercial 5R permissions free and perpetual. OpenSciEd High School offers three NGSS courses. The organization describes itself as an independent nonprofit, and the website is listed for web access.