Mathematics
Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics
Presenters: Michael Ives & Megan Langan
Tentatively Scheduled for October 8, 2024
Recommended for Educators of Grades 6-12
Using the principles of "Building Thinking Classrooms" by Peter Liljedahl, this workshop will explore strategies for creating dynamic learning environments in mathematics classrooms. By changing the way educators ask questions and encourage students to solve tasks collaboratively on Vertical Non-Permanent Surfaces (VNPS), environments with rich mathematical conversations in a student-centered setting can be created. In this workshop, participants will explore techniques to foster students’ abilities to articulate their own conjectures and seriously consider their peers’ perspectives as a way to construct mathematical understandings. Participants will go on a classroom visit to break down effective strategies to promote mathematical discourse in a grades 6 -12 setting.
Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics Phase 2 - Developing Lessons and Assessments
Presenters: Michael Ives & Megan Langan
Tentatively Scheduled for January 17, 2025
Recommended for Educators of Grades 6-12
For participants already familiar with the concept of “Thinking Classroom” who’ve perhaps begun the process of de-fronting their classrooms and using Vertical Non-Permanent Surfaces (VNPS) , now what?
Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics Part 2 will dive more deeply into the research behind the methods used in Peter Liljedahl’s book and how teachers can create and use appropriate rubrics and dynamic questioning to monitor student learning and assess understanding in real time. Register to share ideas and participate in a live classroom visit to break down effective strategies to promote mathematical discourse in a grade 6 - 12 setting.
Enhanced Elementary Mathematical Instruction
Presenter: Nicole Chamberlain
Tentatively Scheduled for November 20, 2024
Recommended for Educators of Grades 1-4
This professional learning experience will enhance the mathematical instruction of grade 1-4 educators. Through interactive sessions and classroom observations, participants will explore the integration of the concrete-pictorial-abstract progression, number talks, and the Seven Mathematical Practices into their teaching practices. The morning session will focus on understanding these concepts, planning concrete-pictorial-abstract lessons, and exploring effective strategies for number talks and mathematical practices integration. In the afternoon, participants will observe a math class, reflecting on observed strategies and discussing implications for their own classrooms. By engaging in this workshop, educators will gain practical tools and insights to elevate math instruction, fostering a culture of mathematical excellence among their students.
Math Matters
Presenters: Chris Nerkizian & Jennifer Rilli
Tentatively Scheduled for January 29, 2025
Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-5
For those looking for more active hands-on learning for math learners, this workshop will present a unique approach to teaching math for grades K-5. All will think outside the box, both with some tried and true methodologies, as well as some new wave technology techniques. With the use of digital tools and new-wave interventions, participants will raise the bar and differentiate in all kinds of different ways.
Math the "Write" Way
Presenters: Julia Lefer & Jennifer Rilli
Tentatively Scheduled for December 9, 2024
Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-5
Math and language arts are usually seen as two separate entities by teachers and students alike; however, the two subjects are truly connected. This workshop will provide participants with strategies to combine reading, writing, and math. Example strategies include using a perfect paragraph format to explain a mathematical answer, using story writing to help interpret and solve word problems, breaking down multi-step directions, and comprehending word problems. Participants will leave this workshop with specific strategies and project ideas to incorporate into their own classrooms.
Math Teacher Roundtable
Presenter: Danielle Nix
Tentatively Scheduled for October 25, 2024 AND March 7, 2025 (choose one or both days!)
Recommended for Educators of Grades 6-12
This session will include discussions of best practices in the mathematics classroom and how to best navigate current struggles. Participants will create/edit lessons and assessments with a partner, and work together to learn or improve their skills in certain uses of technology. It is recommended that participants come as a team or with a district colleague.
*Note: Participants are expected to bring curricular materials that will aid in creating/editing classroom materials.
Math Workshop: Addressing the Needs of All Learners
Presenter: Kathleen O'Flynn
Tentatively Scheduled for October 24, 2024
Recommended for Educators of Grades K-5
According to Jennifer Lempp, five steps is all it takes to teach math in a new way that fosters deep understanding and proficiency for all students. This learning experience will focus on the key concepts of Lempp’s book "Math Workshop: Five Steps to Implementing Guided Math, Learning Stations, Reflection, and More." Participants can expect to take away practical strategies to apply in their classrooms.
Project-Based Learning in the Math Classroom
Presenter: Jessica Vilardi
Tentatively Scheduled for February 26, 2025
Recommended for Educators of Grades Pre-K-5
Explore the exciting realm of teaching mathematics through project-based learning activities. PBL offers a dynamic and engaging approach to math education, where students delve into real-world problems and challenges. Hands-on projects allow students to apply mathematical concepts and gain a deeper understanding of how math is relevant to their lives. Project-based learning also facilitates the spiraling of concepts to keep strategies fresh and allow extra practice in areas needed. Participants will discover how to design and implement projects that foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.
Time with Released Standardized Test Items
Presenter: Laura Sullivan
Tentatively Scheduled for October 2, 2024
Recommended for Educators of Grades 3-12 ELA, Math and Science
This workshop explores ways to integrate released state-test items into your teaching repertoire. Delve into the provided resources to gain valuable insights into assessment expectations, question formats, and content as well as to build a collection of questions that you can use in your classroom. Utilizing released items can help when teaching students valuable test-taking strategies and reinforcing your content. Together we will explore ways to use these questions to supplement your current teaching. Participants will receive many different resources and the well-needed TIME to review them and align them with your current units so that you can start using them with your students tomorrow.