NCTM
Guidelines for Reviewers
The following guidelines are given to help you review material. They do not presume to tell you how to evaluate your subject. Write the review in narrative form, but be sure to address the following points:
I. Overview: This should be an objective summary of the product's contents. The organization of the material (e.g., chapter titles) might be addressed and any key features could be noted. Consider including one specific example from the content of the book (e.g., describe one activity).
2. Errors (if any). Any errors in facts should be pointed out. For example, mathematical errors discovered in the review process should be noted.
3. Uses of the material. Identify the audiences the product is written for, as given by the author(s), and the ways the author(s) suggest the material might be used. Note whether content and presentation of the material appear appropriate for the intended audience. If possible, use the product with children and report their reactions.
4. Software. In reviewing software, note special features and the program's ease of use. Be especially mindful of issues about installing the software and getting started.
5. Opinions. Comment on strengths and major weaknesses. If a product is good, say so and say why. If, in your opinion, a product has some weaknesses or negative characteristics, these should be described in a professional manner and, if possible, supported with examples. Criticisms can often be given in the spirit of some features or characteristics of the material that should be given particular scrutiny with regard to appropriateness, effectiveness, and so forth, before purchasing or using the product. Criticisms should be substantive, not merely differences of philosophy. However, differences in philosophies can be noted but should be identified as reviewer's opinions.
6. Recommendation. Close the review with some sort of recommendation about purchase and possible uses or limitations. Terms and expressions in your reviews that can be readily lifted out of context and misinterpreted should be avoided. For example, a phrase like "should be in every classroom" can be quoted in a way that implies the product has been endorsed by NCTM.