The way a task is launched can significantly influence its effectiveness. Even the most thoughtfully crafted tasks can struggle to engage student thinking if not introduced mindfully. In this session, we’ll explore how to strike the delicate balance of giving students just enough information to understand and engage with the task while withholding just enough to encourage curiosity, problem-solving, and–most importantly–thinking. Through hands-on practice, participants will leave with actionable strategies to launch a task and a fresh perspective on what it feels like to be given tasks from their students’ point of view.
A brief overview of why the BTC assessment model is important, how you can use it to differentiate for students with accommodations and extend it for advanced students. We will do a deep dive in creating the navigation instrument with our own curriculum, what to look for, and how to implement it at various grade levels. Ideas for frequent formative assessment will be provided.
"BTC & Neurodiversity: Goes Together Like PB&J" will empower you to transform your classroom into an inclusive, dynamic learning space. By using strategies like random groupings, vertical non-permanent surfaces (VNPS), and navigation tools, this session demonstrates how to engage and support neurodiverse learners in meaningful ways. You will participate in hands-on activities, discover best practices, and leave with practical resources to promote equity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
You’ve been implementing the practices of the thinking classroom, but student engagement still feels off. You wonder whether it is an overemphasis on getting good grades or students’ conditioning in a transactional system. You’re not alone! Come learn how an overhaul of my own instruction and grading practices refocused students on engagement in learning and thinking. In this session, you will engage in some thinking practice tasks and see how they fit within the Pillars & Practices framework. Whether you’re ready for dramatic change or small steps, this session has tons to offer!
Hi! I've been teaching math in the high school and college settings (with a little bit of middle school) for over twenty years. I like talking about the Pillars & Practices framework, ungrading, redesigning curriculum, and instructional practices that center student thinking. Let's... Read More →
This session emphasizes the vital role of leadership in fostering and sustaining thinking classrooms in mathematics. The session will focus on strategies for school leaders to support educators in implementing Building Thinking Classrooms practices.
