Optional 3 Graduate Credits $255
An Intensive Immersion Institute
“from MCAS to MTEL” and Back
An Institute for Middle
School Teachers
"It is a mistake to think that the practice of my art has become easy to me. I assure you no one has given so much care to the study of composition as I. There is scarcely a famous master in music whose works I have not frequently and diligently studied."
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
June 3, 2009 3:30 – 6:30
June 29—July 3, 2009 8:00 – 3:30
Fall date (1) TBA 3:30 – 6:30
South High School, 170 Apricot Street, Worcester MA
A
partnership of
Worcester
Massachusetts Dept. of Elementary and
Secondary Education
Questions? Contact
Eileen O’Brien at (781)729-8696,
PDI2009@EduTron.com
Unlocking Linear Equations and Exploring Their Foundations
A
Quest for Deep Understanding
“from MCAS to MTEL” and Back
Intensive Immersion Institute I3
A
Summer Institute for Middle School
Teachers
Overview
The Institute provides an optimal environment for participants to examine critically the algebraic and geometric concepts, procedures and approaches to problem solving associated with linear equations.
The goals are: to achieve deep analytical understanding of the linear equations and their conceptual foundations; to highlight teaching approaches that engage students’ interest.
Participants will focus on: solving and understanding an ensemble of high-powered enrichment problems; using technology tools such as graphing calculators and the CLEAR Math* program; analyzing and constructing knowledge maps; developing strategies for assisting students to master linear equations.
Participants will also learn, through modeling and direct treatment, important instructional strategies such as grouping, formative assessment, and differentiated instruction.
Mathematics
It will cover three major topics: linear equations in two variables, systems of linear equations, and, preceding them, a connected sequence of elementary topics that are foundational for the other two major topics: rational numbers and operations, rate and speed, ratio, direct and inverse proportion, and measurement. By means of multi-topic concept mapping with an emphasis on visual explanations, and solution of challenging problems at their level, participants will develop deep understanding of the topics and their interrelationships. In addition, they will explore likely student misunderstandings and their remediation.
Participants will: analyze linear equations through numerical, graphical, and algebraic methods; explore solution space of systems of equations and inequalities. They will make connections between geometrical-algebraic interpretations and engage in the formulation, exploration and solution of application problems and open-ended projects that exemplify the concepts and methods of the Institute topics.
A
Quest for Deep Understanding
“from MCAS to MTEL” and Back
Intensive Immersion Institute I3
A
Summer Institute for Middle School
Teachers
The presenters, Dr. Andrew Chen, Dr. George Johnston and Prof. Elaine Previte, are experienced math educators, Intensive Immersion Institutes** (I3) instructors, as well as members of the authoring team of the CLEAR Math* program from MIT. Here are sample comments from former participants:
“Excellent! Challenging experience. Absolutely engaged in the learning process- the brain certainly got lots of exercise. I developed more confidence in my own learning that will directly transfer to my teaching. More understanding of the ‘why’ something mathematical happens. I will not be teaching all of the topics presented but the awareness and knowledge gained is critical to my professional development. The collegiality was incredible!!”
“The dynamics of a group can only be explained to someone who has experienced it. It is really exciting to do meaningful analysis of our work in front of people who truly want to understand and deepen their teaching commitment."
“It woke up the math in me. It made me aware of my strengths and weaknesses.” “… like pumping iron or running 7 miles… it was good for me.” “I truly wished every math teacher could experience what I did in this class. I have learned much about myself as a math teacher and as a math student.”
“Wonderful! I would love to take it again! The atmosphere was extremely non-threatening and there was something for everyone. The subject matter was presented in a way which challenged everyone, but there was still the ability for those who did not come with as much knowledge of math to master the fundamentals!”
“I enjoyed the exchange with math teachers on a real math level so much. Thank you for all that you did to draw out the best in each of us.”
“This institute was the most valuable professional development I have had in my career as a teacher. (Very long career…)”
“This course created “Joyous” learning moments with the great feeling of “break-through” thinking and thought connections and generalized concept development. (Made my “eyes water” several times.) … I was richly rewarded in this course.”
“This institute provided me with the opportunity to challenge myself mathematically. I enjoyed taking the emphasis off ‘teaching’ and putting it on my individual learning. I learned a great deal from my colleagues and an enormous amount from Andrew and George. I feel re-energized and also that I now have more to offer as a teacher.”
** District-based Intensive Immersion Institutes, I3, can fundamentally transform individual teachers and their districts into effective learning machines. Thanks to the chemistry, dynamics, and positive peer pressure fostered in the rigorous, intensive and collegial workshop experience. http://www.edutron.com
Unlocking Linear Equations and Exploring Their Foundations
A
Quest for Deep Understanding
“from MCAS to MTEL” and Back
Intensive Immersion Institute I3
A
Summer Institute for Middle School
Teachers
Unlocking Linear Equations and Exploring Their Foundations, funded through a contract administered by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, is offered at no cost to educators. Space is limited; therefore, please submit this application only if you can commit to attend all days of the Institute and complete all Institute requirements.
Sessions will be held at
Worcester Public Schools
Priority for Registration Teachers from high need districts will receive first priority for registration. Mathematics teachers that are not currently licensed in mathematics will receive next priority. Teachers from high need districts are encouraged to participate as a team.
EduTron Corporation is a math and science education products and services company founded by MIT scientists and engineers. EduTron provides framework-compliant professional development and courseware. In these services and products, it is at the forefront of applied cognitive science and computer-human interface research. Its goal is to liberate human teachers to do what they do best. The EduTron Team is passionate about improving math education. “We Make Teaching and Learning Serious Fun!” The Serious Fun comes from mastery!
* CLEAR Math (Computer-based Learning Environment with Advanced Remediation) has been approved by MA DOE as Frameworks/MCAS compliant and technically appropriate software for grades 6-12. It is being used in more than 35 districts in Massachusetts with excitingly positive outcomes. (See www.edutron.com)
A
Quest for Deep Understanding
“from MCAS to MTEL” and Back
Intensive Immersion Institute I3
A
Summer Institute for Middle School
Teachers