Implementing Tasks That Promote Reasoning and Problem-Solving in a Mathematics Classroom

One of the Mathematics Teaching Practices from NCTM’s “Principles to Actions” is to implement tasks that promote reasoning and problem-solving. Effective teaching of mathematics facilitates discourse among learners to build shared understanding of mathematical ideas by analyzing and comparing approaches and arguments.

In this workshop, we will discuss how one might implement and facilitate tasks that promote productive discussions to strengthen the teaching and learning of mathematics. We will explore types of tasks that encourage mathematical flexibility to show what students know in more than one way.

Questions we will consider include:

• Why are tasks that promote reasoning and problem-solving necessary?
• How might we implement equitable opportunities for every student to learn?
• What are ways to adapt tasks?

By the end of the workshop, participants should be comfortable:

• Implementing and identifying tasks that promote reasoning and problem-solving
• Engaging students in tasks that promote reasoning and problem-solving
• Adapting tasks to make them promote reasoning and problem-solving
• Integrating Texas Instruments (TI) technology in the implementation of rich tasks

Overview

This workshop is available in a one-day format using TI-Nspire™ technology. A half-day workshop option is also available. A virtual workshop is also available in multiple two- or three-hour sessions.

This workshop could be offered in conjunction with the following T³™ workshops:

• Promoting Productive Struggle That Leads to Understanding
• Teaching Strategies for Success in a Mathematics Classroom

Participants will join in discussions and activities focused on: Identifying key components of tasks which are worthwhile to promote reasoning and problem-solving Sorting existing tasks to identify those tasks which “measure up” Adapting tasks to create learning opportunities for students that encourage rich mathematical thinking and analysis Establishing goals to implement new classroom norms and culture focused on curiosity and inquiry in a no-risk environment

Areas of Focus

This workshop models strategies for engaging students in rich mathematical reasoning and problem-solving. It aligns strongly with the principles of productive struggle and conceptual development, investigating connections between multiple problem-solving strategies.