Wyoming Innovations in Learning

Session Description: Attendees will engage in a variety of manipulative based mathematical tasks that not only expand their views on mathematical teaching methods, but will also help them embrace the creativity that is embedded in mathematics. They will participate in lessons designed around research based teaching methods to develop mathematical creativity --  multiple solution tasks, model eliciting activities, open ended questioning, and problem solving and problem posing tasks. Through the engagement of tasks and the participation in various teaching models, attendees will gain insight on the effectiveness of these teaching models.

Mathematical manipulatives needed for above mentioned tasks will be provided by the presenters. Examples of manipulative that will be used are Cuisenare Rods, square tiles, pattern blocks, and paper strips.  

Session Outcomes: Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
1. employ explicit mathematics lessons that are grounded in theory and best practice; supporting conceptual mathematical understanding.
2. have a framework for why creativity is an essential mental construct that is developed through specific mathematical teaching models
3. explain and create lessons that are designed around specific research based teaching methods that promote conceptual mathematical understanding.