District/Campus Offerings

Mathematics

Recommended grade level or bands are indicated for each session.

Building Strong Foundations in Early Math (Grades K-2)

Are you eager to equip your students with a solid foundation in mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills? In this three-hour session, we will focus on enhancing math instruction through a deep understanding of the TEKS. We'll explore strategies designed to build strong number sense with both whole numbers and fractions, emphasizing meaningful learning over rote procedures. Additionally, we’ll delve into effective math routines that not only engage students but also promote conceptual understanding. Join us to discover how these approaches can transform your teaching and strengthen your students' mathematical abilities.

Building Thinking Classrooms in Elementary (Grades K-5) or Secondary (Grades 6-12) Math

Do you strive to help students go beyond rote memorization and repetitive calculations? Many traditional classroom norms and habits actually enable “non-thinking” student behavior. In this series of workshops, we introduce participants to the 14 teaching practices for enhancing learning outlined in Peter Liljedahl's book, Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics. He recommends a gradual implementation of the practices, so that's how this series is designed.

Toolkit 1:
In this three-hour session, the first in the series, we'll set the stage for transforming your classroom into one focused on learning-centered, student-owned deep mathematical thinking and learning.
Toolkit 2:
In this three-hour session, the second in the series, we’ll examine specific teaching practices that will fine tune your thinking classroom.
Toolkit 3:
In this three-hour session, the third in the series, we’ll begin creating flow in your classroom so you can truly reap the benefits of a thinking classroom.
Toolkit 4:
In this three-hour session, the fourth in the series, we’ll explore assessment practices which lead to some of the biggest changes in student behavior and performance.

Building Thinking Classrooms in Math: Overview for Administrators & Evaluators (all grades)

This three-hour workshop is designed specifically for administrators and evaluators looking to support and evaluate the implementation of thinking classrooms in math. A thinking classroom is one where students are actively engaged in sense-making, critical thinking, and mathematical discourse. Participants will explore the key components of Peter Liljedahl's Building Thinking Classrooms, including the role of the teacher as a facilitator of learning, the use of rich tasks and open-ended problems, and the importance of creating a safe and inclusive learning environment. Strategies for supporting teachers in building thinking classrooms and evaluating their effectiveness will be discussed, along with ways to provide constructive feedback and promote continuous improvement.

Developing Numerical Fluency (Grades K-2 and Grades 3-5)

Numerical fluency refers to having efficient and accurate methods to compute. These three-hour professional development sessions will provide participants opportunities to work on developing their own numerical fluency as well as how to develop it with students. Participants will leave with a variety of strategies that help construct fluency, including problem strings, math talks, games, and routines.

Differentiated Instruction in Mathematics: Meeting the Needs of All Students (Grades K-2 and Grades 3-5)

Come explore strategies to tailor math instruction to diverse learners. We will emphasize the use of manipulatives and technology to help students develop number fluency and justify their thinking, fostering a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. These three-hour sessions will also focus on effective questioning techniques to enhance student understanding and engagement, ensuring that all students can access and thrive in mathematics.

Manipulatives in the Elementary Math Classroom (Grades K-2 and Grades 3-5)

Struggling to get students to take ownership of learning, verbalize their mathematical thinking, and gain confidence in their ability to find solutions to mathematical problems? Exploring manipulatives, especially self-directed exploration, reduces math anxiety and allows students to make discoveries that bridge the gap between concrete and abstract mathematical understandings. Join us as we investigate the use of manipulatives and discover ways to support students as they construct physical models of abstract mathematical ideas.

Math Talks & Problem Strings Belong in Secondary Math, Too (Grades 6-12)

Join us for an enlightening three-hour workshop that explores the power of math talks and problem strings in secondary math classrooms. Often associated with elementary math, these strategies are equally effective at the middle and high school levels for developing students' mathematical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. Participants will learn how to facilitate meaningful math talks that encourage students to explain their thinking and consider multiple perspectives. Additionally, attendees will discover how problem strings can be used to deepen understanding of mathematical concepts and promote mathematical fluency. Practical examples and strategies will be shared to help educators implement these techniques in their own classrooms.

Problem Solving with Addition and Subtraction (Grades K-2)

Are you creating problem solvers or problem performers? Participants will delve into different problem types, exploring how students conceptualize addition and subtraction. We will also discuss effective strategies to cultivate a classroom environment where students are encouraged to think deeply, approach problems from multiple angles, and build resilience in their problem-solving processes. By the end of the three-hour session, educators will be equipped with tools to nurture true problem solvers who are prepared for complex, real-world challenges.

Thinking Routines Belong in Secondary Math, Too (Grades 6-12)

Join us for an interactive three-hour workshop that explores the integration of thinking routines in secondary math classrooms. Thinking routines, popularized by Harvard's Project Zero, are powerful tools that deepen student understanding and engagement. In this session, we will demonstrate how thinking routines can be seamlessly incorporated into middle and high school math lessons to promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and mathematical reasoning. Participants will leave with practical strategies and resources to implement these routines in their own classrooms, empowering students to think like mathematicians.

Using Inquiry -Based Learning to Teach Math (Grades K-2 and Grades 3-5)

Inquiry-based learning to teach math sets high expectations and provides supports for all students. In this professional development teachers will experience hands-on tasks that require students to think and construct mathematics. They will be provided opportunities to observe how to connect ideas and ask the right questions. The teachers will develop the skills and practices necessary for inquiry-based learning. These are designed as three-hour sessions.

Work Stations & Small Group Instruction Belong in Secondary Math, Too (Grades 6-12)

Join us for an engaging three-hour workshop that explores the power of work stations and small group instruction in secondary math classrooms. While commonly used in elementary classrooms, these strategies are equally effective at the middle and high school levels for promoting student engagement, differentiation, and deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. Participants will learn how to design and implement work stations that align with secondary math standards, as well as how to effectively manage small group instruction to meet the diverse needs of students. Practical tips and resources will be provided to help educators integrate these strategies into their own classrooms.

Region 10 Education Service Center

District/Campus Offerings

Mathematics

Contacts