2024 Northwest Mathematics Conference

In this workshop, participants will learn about the free virtual manipulatives available on Polypad, part of Desmos Classroom. Manipulatives can transform how students make meaning of important ideas by making abstract relationships visible, by teaching creativity and problem-solving, and by allowing students to explore and discover. Participants will learn about using Polypad virtual manipulatives including how to make free teacher and student accounts, how to get started exploring Polypad, how to create custom lessons and activities, how to view students work on Polypad in real-time, and so much more.

Have you heard of an innovative, effective, and efficient teaching method called "Thinking Classrooms"? If you have heard of it, but you have never tried it or do not know how to start it, this is the session for you. Based on Thinking Classrooms developed by Dr. Peter Liljedahl at SFU, I will share some tips on how to construct this interactive and collaborative space for students to engage in step by step manner.

Ever wonder how you can use Peter Liljedahl’s Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC) Practices in your secondary mathematics class daily? In this session, we will engage in a ‘curricular’ thinking classroom lesson from beginning to end, and then zoom out to look at how to plan a unit so that it involves opportunities for responsive teaching practices and allows for adaptability within individual lessons. This session welcomes both those familiar with BTC and those new to it and will offer space for sharing about various BTC implementation experiences. Come join the conversation about implementing BTC practices in secondary mathematics courses!

Come on an algebraic journey as we see how bar models can be used to develop algebraic thinking from grade 4 to grade 9. We will solve puzzles, solve and make sense of 1- and 2-step equations and more complex equations, have a more intuitive understanding of the "rules" of algebra, and tackle tough word problems traditionally done with algebraic equations--all using bar models! If your students struggle to "get" algebra, then this session is for you! This is a hands-on session. Paper and pencils will be provided.

Math Circles are for all math enthusiasts who enjoy solving problems and networking with other educators. At an event, teachers share a meal, solve problems, share stories and have a few laughs. Problems are carefully chosen to be accessible for elementary, middle school and secondary teachers so everyone can “get their math on.” Come to the session to find out more about math circles and learn how to set up one of your own.

We all know that problem solving is an important aspect of a mathematics classroom, but do we know why or how to implement problem solving into our lessons. In this workshop, we will look at what research has to say on this topic, and I will share some of my successes in implementing problem solving as a way to engage, motivate and support all learners. Attendees will participate in many of my favourite tasks to experience the "why" and the "how" behind implementing a problem solving lesson.