2008-2009 Mathematics for Middle School
On-site and by Request Only
Beginning TI-73 Graphing Calculator, Grades 6-8
This session is for beginners to the TI-73 graphing calculator. Graphing calculators are one type of graphing technology tool that can be used in the middle school classroom accoring to the TEKS. In face, graphing calculators are a teaching and learning tool and not a way to bypass the mathematics. Come and learn the basic keys and functions of the TI-73 graphing calculator.
Beginning TI-83/84 Graphing Calculator, Grades 6-8
This session is for beginners to the TI-83/84 graphing calculator. Graphing calculators are one type of graphing technology tool that can be used in the middle school classroom accoring to the TEKS. In face, graphing calculators are a teaching and learning tool and not a way to bypass the mathematics. Come and learn the basic keys and functions of the TI-83/84 graphing calculator.
Let the Math Games Begin, Grades 6-8 or 9-12
Students are on task and learning while playing games. This after-school session will provide games that teach/review mathematic concepts while students are engaged in cooperative learning.
Percents, Proportions, and Problem Solving, Grades 6-9
Proportional Reasoning is the basic thought process in solving problems across the mathematical strands, and vertically throught the grade levels. Many real-life situations also require proportional reasoning to solve a problem or arrive at a solution. Be prepared to enjoy problem solving with activities that include proportional reasoning and percents.
Structuring a Successful Mathematics Classroom
Student success is tied directly to what goes on between the teacher and the students in the classroom. Participants will examine effective classroom structure and practices which are vital for students to understand and retain learned mathematical concepts. Templates will be provided to create tools that allow implementation of those strategies, which are based on research by Marzano.
TAKS Data Analysis as a Basis for Curriculum Planning
Participants will use a Data Analysis Tool, a released test (when available), an answer key, and their mathematical TAKS data to determine the basis of errors which occurred: content (Did I teach it?), context (Did I teach it the right way?), complexity (Was it taught at the correct level in Bloom's Taxonomy?), or crossover (Is it a reading issue or a processing issue?). Participants will begin to develop an instructional intervention plan.
Teaching for Success with Manipulatives, Grades 6-8
Manipulatives provide concrete ways to tackle mathematicsl challenges bringing meaning to abstract ideas. In fact, they are the building blocks to develop conceptual undertstanding. Manipulatives also provide a means for struggling learners to become successful by building the foundational learning of any given concept. Observing students working with various manipulatives can provide th teacher with a sense of how students approach a mathematical problem. Examples of how to bridge student understanding from the concrete to the abstract level will be explored.
Teaching Mathematical Concepts and Problem Sovling for Educators of Special Education Students
This staff development session provides rigorous training to those edcators of all grade levels who work directly with students in the special education classroom or inclusion students in the regular classroom. Emphasis is on using manipulatives to reinforce basic mathematical concepts and problem solving. A brief introduction to the graphing calculator provides training for those educators who work in the secondary setting.
Using the 5-E Model to Engage Students in Mathematics
The 5-E model was developed for instruction in the Science classroom, but is also an effective instructional model for Matheamtics. The Engage Phase creates interest and curiosity through questioning, hands-on activities, videos, audios, guest speakers, etc. Learning continues with Exploration, Explanation, Elaboration, and Evaluation which lead to a depth in understanding of mathematical concepts.
Using the TI-73 Graphing Calculator to Enhance Instruction, Grades 6-8
The mathematics classroom is designed to teach mathematics TEKS, rather than technology. However, technology-based data offers an opportunity to engage students and to strengthen mathematical learning. By combining mathematics with technology, students gain knowledge and confidence to ask good "what if" questions, comprehend cause and effect, and make generalizations. Teachers who have a working knowledge of the graphing calculator may come and experience a variety of activities using the TI-73 graphing calculator that is designed to enhance students' mathematical understanding.
Using the TI-83/84 Graphing Calculator to Enhance Instruction, Grades 6-8
The mathematics classroom is designed to teach mathematics TEKS, rather than technology. However, technology-based data offers an opportunity to engage students and to strengthen mathematical learning. By combining mathematics with technology, students gain knowledge and confidence to ask good "what if" questions, comprehend cause and effect, and make generalizations. Teachers who have a working knowledge of the graphing calculator may come and experience a variety of activities using the TI-83/84 graphing calculator that is designed to enhance students' mathematical understanding.