Setting Up Positive Class Norms
Effective Pedagogy in Mathematics
Welcome to the 2017-18 School Year!
Everyone can learn math. Mistakes are valuable. Questions are really important. Math is about creativity and making sense. Math is about connections and communicating. Math class is about learning not performing. Depth is more important than speed.
These are Jo Boaler's favorite messages to give students in math class. I believe they are messages that we need, as educators, to give ourselves as well. A new year provides an opportunity to impact a new group of students and every day in your class further develops their mathematical identity. Let's strive this year to encourage in our students a positive math identity, by promoting a growth mindset and empowering students to take ownership of their learning. The link below provides some suggestions as to how to encourage these messages.
Thank you for all you do for KCS mathematics! I look forward to working with you.
~Laura Baker
KCS K-6 Math Coach
Caring classroom communities, focused on mathematical goals, help develop students' mathematical identities and proficencies.
Questions to Consider
Do your classroom norms support respectful and equitable participation?
Do students feel comfortable taking risks?
How culturally responsive are you?