As with the reflections from the first two days of Math Campp, I've turned this blog post over to Gwen to get her responses on what was happening in her session during the breakout sessions.
From Gwen @ Dorset Park
On day 3 at “The Fishing Shack,” we got hooked on algebraic thinking. Inspired by the exciting Plenary Sessions lead by Ruth Beatty and Cathy Bruce, our breakout groups tackled problems about linear relations with renewed vigor. We used our own solutions and student work samples, to discuss what learning was evident and to practice giving descriptive feedback. One thing that came to light is that many of us are now feeling that we would like to pursue more professional development with a focus on specific math content. We are taking the bait!
On day 4, we spread the “net,” as in network. We developed learning goals for the Patterning and Algebra strand for our grades and shared ideas for planning for combined grades. We also talked about our understanding of what multiple representations are and what they are not. Before, I would have thought that a demonstration with three different manipulatives would do the trick, but from now on I will be introducing my students to concrete, visual, graphical, and symbolic representations, and encouraging them to make connections between the representations to deepen their thinking. Our new coolest tool in the tackle box is active graphing.
Finally, we shared resources – some tried and true, some brand . We were introduced to the Math GAINS website and were amazed by its sheer breadth and depth. This resource is sure to provide plenty of food for any who swim in its waters. It’s true that good things grow in Ontario!
Thanks Gwen!
For those of you not familiar with the GAINS website, I highly suggest you take a look at it. It's free, and is great for learning all about ways to teach math in the province. You can find it at: www.edugains.ca and click on math gains. There are also valuable links to assessment, literacy, DI and ELL learners.
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