This session, inspired by Pam Harris’ Developing Mathematical Reasoning, explores how over-reliance on memorized algorithms can hinder student understanding and flexibility with numbers. Participants will experience strategies that cultivate genuine mathematical reasoning, deepen number sense, and empower students to approach problems with confidence and creativity. Leave with practical approaches you can use right away to help students think like mathematicians, not just follow steps.
Math Coach/Consultant, Metro Chicago Mathematics Initiative
A passionate educator who partners with teachers to design student-centered learning environments that foster student agency, confidence, and a strong sense of capability.
This session, inspired by Pam Harris’ Developing Mathematical Reasoning, explores how over-reliance on memorized algorithms can hinder student understanding and flexibility with numbers. Participants will experience strategies that cultivate genuine mathematical reasoning, deepen number sense, and empower students to approach problems with confidence and creativity. Leave with practical approaches you can use right away to help students think like mathematicians, not just follow steps.
Math Coach/Consultant, Metro Chicago Mathematics Initiative
A passionate educator who partners with teachers to design student-centered learning environments that foster student agency, confidence, and a strong sense of capability.
Algebra Tiles are a powerful visual and tactile tool for teaching algebraic concepts to students of all levels. In this interactive session, participants will explore how algebra tiles can be used to enhance understanding of fundamental algebra concepts, from solving linear equations to factoring polynomials. Attendees will gain practical experience in using algebra tiles to model expressions and equations, making abstract algebraic concepts more concrete and accessible for students.
Through hands-on activities, educators will learn how to integrate algebra tiles into their teaching practice to promote student engagement and deepen understanding. We will explore strategies for using algebra tiles to teach concepts such as combining like terms, simplifying expressions, solving equations, and factoring quadratic expressions. Additionally, we will discuss how algebra tiles can be used to address common student misconceptions and improve problem-solving skills.
