This course has opened my eyes to a whole new way of teaching mathematics. I came into this course, expecting to be drilled with our multiplication tables, relearning long division, work on devising math worksheets and tests, and lesson plans that simply involve the teaching of a concept and usage of the textbook - what I have learned, however, is that math, and teaching math, is something completely different than what I was used to. I learned mathematics has amazing potential to become very student-centered and engaging as well as fun and exciting.
Mathematics should be inquiry based. You should present problems to your students that allow them to find their own solutions. Get them up and moving! Allow them to learn through play as children do. The potential to instill authentic learning with mathematics by using valuable resources, by making math student centered and fun is huge, so why would you do any different than teach in such a way?
Thank you, Mary, for a great term! I've learned so much and I am excited to take what I've learned and put it into practice.
Monday 7 April 2014
Mathematics Resources K-6
We were given the opportunity to grapple with mathematics resources from k-6 during one of our math classes. Though I was absent during this class, I did inquire with some of my colleagues to catch up on anything that I may have missed. They filled me in on the activity during that day and shared with me, things that stood out to them. I also took it upon myself to peruse the resources available at the CMC, as I missed the opportunity to do so during class time. I began with looking at the curriculum guides, and from that, went on to textbooks, and even took a look at some children's books that are math- centered.
The thing I like most about curriculum documents is the organization of them. They are in chronological order, with easy to follow material inside. The 2-page spreads are fantastic, as they outline the specific curriculum outcome and then provides some detailed information on how to teach this and methods of assessment. I will say, however, that sometimes, the curriculum guides lack in creativity and motivational activities for students that will completely engage them and result in a deep learning experience. But mostly, the curriculum documents are great guides for teachers.
The text books and other resources seemed to be fantastic! Colourful and engaging, especially from k-2, but unfortunately, grades 3 and onward lacked in colour and motivational pictures to engage children! This was quite a disappointment.
Something I really enjoyed was the children's books available that are centered around mathematical concepts. A book that really stuck out to me was "The Greedy Triangle" by Marilyn Burns. It's a scholastic book which discusses the concepts of geometry through a fun story that is both silly and enjoyable for students. I feel as if more mathematical concepts were presented in such a way, math anxiety would be much lower than it currently is now.
The thing I like most about curriculum documents is the organization of them. They are in chronological order, with easy to follow material inside. The 2-page spreads are fantastic, as they outline the specific curriculum outcome and then provides some detailed information on how to teach this and methods of assessment. I will say, however, that sometimes, the curriculum guides lack in creativity and motivational activities for students that will completely engage them and result in a deep learning experience. But mostly, the curriculum documents are great guides for teachers.
The text books and other resources seemed to be fantastic! Colourful and engaging, especially from k-2, but unfortunately, grades 3 and onward lacked in colour and motivational pictures to engage children! This was quite a disappointment.
Something I really enjoyed was the children's books available that are centered around mathematical concepts. A book that really stuck out to me was "The Greedy Triangle" by Marilyn Burns. It's a scholastic book which discusses the concepts of geometry through a fun story that is both silly and enjoyable for students. I feel as if more mathematical concepts were presented in such a way, math anxiety would be much lower than it currently is now.
Youcubed
Youcubed- A revolutionary way to think about mathematics
Wow! Is all I can say. As a future educator, finding a website such as Youcubed is almost like winning the lottery. Jo Boaler, "the driving force behind math change in the United States and beyond", has done an amazing job at providing teachers, around the world, with excellent resources for teaching mathematics, not only in primary and elementary, but in junior high and high school as well!
This website provides with a multitude of resources to help revolutionize they way we teach math. The website is aimed to promote teaching of mathematics that is fun for students, that motivates them to learn, and most importantly, promotes deep understanding.
Something that inspired me while navigating this website, was the video of Jo Boaler, in which she states that "everyone can learn math, everyone can achieve in math" but it is up to us, as future educators, to use the most effective tools and resources to make it happen. Oftentimes, you will come across students who are frustrated with, or dislike mathematics; we have the ability to change that, and this website provides us with the tools to do so. Mathematics should not be a subject that is mostly text-oriented, or teacher centered. We need to make mathematics (and all other subjects, as well...) student centered and FUN.
This website is very user friendly and visually appealing. It contains a variety of videos and even some which show children talking about their experiences in taking this new inquiry approach to mathematics. This website, and the tools, resources, and research involved, are all aimed to "[unlock] children's math potential". As you scroll through the website, you notice links which provide you with exciting and engaging lessons for students from k-12. There is even a "tools for parents" link which is fantastic! This link provides parents with activities that they can have their children participate at home to increase their children's math knowledge, further unlocking their potential.
I am excited to see what this website has in store upon its completion! I will be sure to take advantage of these free teacher resources in hopes of providing my future students with the best possible learning experience.
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