Monday, January 21, 2013

Do the Math courses for Teachers

Back to the Western University (formerly UWO)/Fields Institute info I shared last week, there are some Math Courses for Teachers available that help teachers, students and parents boost their math knowledge.  This may be what some of you are looking for.  It is called "Do the Math" and can be found here. You can get a certificate of completion and the cost is free or minimal, depending on the option you choose.



Friday, January 18, 2013

Infinity is Pretty Big

Speaking about infinity...



(Author's note:  I think he sounds smarter 'cause he's speaks with a British accent.)

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Performing Research Ideas

Another resource page coming out of the Western University and Fields Institute collaboration is the Performing Research Ideas page.  On this site you will find several documentaries, mp3 files of math songs, and lesson plans that explore interesting concepts like "Do Parallel Lines Ever Meet?" and "Can I Hold Infinity in My Hand?"  The student creativity that is on display in the videos and songs is astounding!

Learning all starts with a great question and the math to explore the answer.

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

The MIND Research Institute

If the last two TED talks I've posted haven't got you intrigued enough to find more about JiJi the Penguin, then maybe the MIND Research Institute page will get your mind fired up.  Thanks again to Stephen Lippa for sharing this with us.

Friday, January 11, 2013

The Geometry of Chocolate



Another suggested TED Talk from Mr. Lippa. 

"Math is a language we use to describe this wonderful world around us!"

The Power of asking great questions of our students.

Thursday, January 10, 2013

Teaching Without Words



Another informative and thought provoking TED Talk about the importance of feedback and how teaching without words is extremely powerful.  Thank you to Stephen Lippa from Explore Learning for sharing the talk and reminding me about the penguin I met four years ago from a French lady at ECOO 2009.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Math Performance Centre

At the December OMCA meeting, we were treated to a presentation from George Gadanidis.  He shared the overwhelming amount of resources coming from the Math Performance Centre.  Please take a moment, (or a day or two), to view the amazing artistic expression found in the math our students learn.  There is SO much here but I will start with the Alderville First Nation link that will serve as your entry into the astounding mathematical creativity that is all over the web pages linked to the "Where I'm From" project.  A permanent link has been added to the "Link for teachers" sidebar.


Tuesday, January 8, 2013

New Year, New Caribou

Next Wednesday is the next Caribou Math Contest.  Have you registered the Grade 3 and 4 class at your school?  The contest is free for those grades and gives them a great problem solving experience.  Contact me for more info or visit the Caribou page here.


Wednesday, January 2, 2013

OMCA Retreat with John Scammell

Happy New Year!!  Made a resolution to improve your math program this year?  Maybe intergrate technology in new and interesting ways?  Maybe just want to have deeper, better math discussions?  How about attending the OMCA Retreat, with guest speaker, John Scammell (@thescamdog)?  Registration ends this week.  Be sure to get yours in!  Follow this link to view the flyer and the registration form.