Free WestEd Online Module: MATH INSTRUCTION FOR ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE GRADES

Improving Mathematical Problem Solving (Grades 4-8)

Course starts July 22, 2013. Register by July 8, 2013

Module runs for 4 weeks, 2.5 of online activities each week.

The course content is aligned to the Common Core State Standards for Mathematical Practice, and is based on the IES Practice Guide recommendations :

• Prepare Problems: Use routine & non-routine problems, consider context and language, and draw on students experiences and interests
• Problem Solving Instruction: Teach multiple strategies, demonstrate visual representations, and explain mathematical concpets and notation 
• Monitor, Reflect, and Debrief: Prompt students to elicit thinking about the problem-solving process and compare the use of different strategies

Participant commitment:

• Log on 3-4 times each week to complete approximately 2.5 hours of activities and discussion per week
• Participate actively in engaging discussions and small-group projects with other charter teachers
• Complete all assignments, including developing focus student profiles and moving from theory to practice by trying out instructional strategies with students in the classroom.