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 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) and 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.

Campus Manipulatives Training for Mathematics (Grades 3-11)

Often, campuses have purchased manipulatives, but are not using those manipulatives as tools for mathematics instruction.  By providing a list of campus-owned manipulatives and making the manipulatives available for training, the campus will be able to schedule a session to train the teachers to effectively teach with the campus manipulatives. Teaching with manipulatives does not in itself constitute intervention, but a research-based approach to the sequence of concrete-representational-abstract that includes manipulatives as tools for instruction, reflective practices, cooperative learning, learning activities that are exploratory and deductive in their design shows a positive impact on student understanding of concepts that are best developed with a concrete base. (Time span varies based on number of manipulatives involved in the professional development session)

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 & 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. The three-hour session will also focus on effective questioning techniques to enhance student understanding and engagement, ensuring that all students can access and thrive in mathematics.

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 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.

Program Coordinator
Instruction and Innovative Practices
Arynn Rasmussen
972-348-1772
Email Arynn Rasmussen

Consultant: Secondary Math
Julie Frizzell
972-348-1186
Email Julie Frizzell

Consultant: Elementary Math
Kendall Veazey
972-348-1494
Email Kendall Veazey

Consultant: Curriculum Support, K-12 Math
Darcie Midkiff
972-348-1274
Email Darcie Midkiff