The purpose of this activity is to receive an introduction to the teaching concepts addressed in TMM. Specifically, what are characteristics of struggling learners that make meaningful mathematics a challenge and what are strategies that are useful in making mathematics meaningful? We will be returning to this book in the future. It is a very good book.
- In reading your respective chapter you are to address the following:
- The major points (be judicious in what you choose) - provide enough detail so the others get a full sense of the point
- What are the major take-aways you have for each major point listed
- For the chapter on characteristics of struggling learners, address WHY kids are struggling and how this relates to the teacher's perspective (after all the point of this is to inform your teaching).
- For the strategies chapters, address WHY the strategies may work and how these strategies relate to your future teaching. How can you make use of these?
- Again, be judicious and be concise. You don't have to provide a full explanation of the whole chapter.
- In responding to the posts of others, identify a key point made and address how it can or will impact your teaching AND explain your reaction, e.g. are you surprised or is it common sense?
Your initial post is due by Sunday, June 2 at 10PM and your responses to the posts of others is due by Sunday, June 9 10PM.
Here are the chapter assignments:
- Sarah - Chapter 5: "Common Learning Characteristics that Make Mathematics Difficult for Struggling Learners"
- Tiffany - Chapter 8: "Making Instructional Decisions: Determining What and How to Teach
- Charles - Chapter 9: "Teaching for Initial Understanding: Using Effective Instructional Practices"
- Jim - Chapter 10: "Building Proficiency: Using Effective Student Practice Strategies"
- David - Chapter 11: "Planning Effective Mathematics Instruction in a Variety of Educational Environments"
- Neil - Chapter 12: "Using Technology to Promote Access to Mathematics"
