Since returning from our three day learning conference, we have been excited to implement the ‘problem first’ approach to teaching and learning, as demonstrated by Primary Mathematics experts, Peter Sullivan and James Russo. We aim to provide rich tasks and experiences that enable all students to feel challenged and progress from confusion to understanding.
‘Struggle first, moving from complexity to clarity’
Our objective has been for the teacher to talk less about how to do the task and enable students to investigate, problem solve and learn by doing. During 2018, we were fortunate enough to participate in the BASTOW Leading Mathematics course. One aspect of this was the importance of developing a growth mindset in mathematics. Presenters exposed us to the ‘Mathematical Mindset’ work of Jo Boaler which we have been implementing within our classrooms. So the ‘Zone of Confusion’ wasn’t a huge leap and the students understood that making mistakes and being challenged are essential for learning.
The greatest success has been seeing students embracing the ‘zone of confusion’ and saying things like ‘It’s ok to make mistakes, because I know my brain is growing’ (From previous Jo Boaler work).
‘I was confused at the start but know I get it’
These tasks have enabled peer coaching and students feeling valued and recognised as mathematicians because they can share their methods with others. We have continued to use the Jo Boaler Mathematical Mindset goals as prompts to show that ‘beginners only show one answer and can’t explain it’ while ‘experts show their thinking using visuals, models and explanations’.
We look forward to recording our journey throughout the year.