Teaching 101

If you are a teacher preparing to teach mathematics, or are currently doing so, and you have not read Jo Boaler's book Mathematical mindsets: Unleashing students' potential through creative math, inspiring messages and innovative teaching , be sure to find a copy and start reading.  Boaler indicates that she believes there are 5 C's of mathematics engagement:  curiosity, connection making, challenge, creativity,  and  collaboration . The chapters of this book dive into a variety of topics related to mathematics teaching and learning but the fifth chapter specifically talks about what are known as rich mathematical tasks. This chapter describes six different cases, all of which are scenarios she has personally witnessed, that demonstrate the importance of the nature of teaching mathematics.  Boaler indicates that rich mathematical tasks give students the opportunities to learn in a way that is essential to developing their mathematical mindsets. When designi...

 Mathematics is a subject that students either love or despise. I have rarely encountered a student who felt neutral about the subject of math. I have been tutoring students in mathematics for a number of years, and I find it interesting that students determine their 'smartness' on their ability to succeed in math.  Additionally, when students begin to realize that their mathematical abilities have grown, they feel more confident in their other subjects as well. Why is math a primary factor in a students academic confidence? Now, I pose that question not even knowing the exact answer myself. I can only suggest that perhaps this mentality has developed as a result of its creation by society. When I tell people that I earned a Bachelor of Science, they almost always say, "Wow. Good for you! You must be so smart!" My response to them is that I can't draw or paint whatsoever. My artistic abilities are minimal but you don't often hear someone tell an artist "W...