Author Pam Harris argues that teaching real math--math that is free of distortions--will reach more students more effectively and result in deeper understanding and longer retention. This book is about teaching undistorted math using the kinds of mental reasoning that mathematicians do. Memorization tricks and algorithms meant to make math…

We present an investigation of the infinite sequences of numbers formed by calculating the pairwise averages of three given numbers. The problem has an interesting geometric interpretation related to the sequence of triangles with equal perimeters which tend to an equilateral triangle. Investigative activities of the problem are carried out in…

Seeds of Algebraic Thinking comes from the Knowledge in Pieces (KiP) perspective of learning. KiP is a systems approach to learning that stems from the constructivist idea that people learn by building on prior knowledge. As people experience the world, they acquire small, sub-conceptual knowledge elements. When people engage in a particular…

This paper presents a novel figure for teaching multiple geometric proofs of the Pythagorean theorem. Because it consists only of congruent given right triangles, the figure can be constructed using a template of the given right triangle or, if available, a computer program. Within the figure, called a Pythagorean multi-proof square, there are…

This article aims to share five practical approaches for how teachers can identify, adapt, and create their own writing prompts they assign to students: (1) Promote Students' Solution Paths; (2) Go beyond Asking Students to Simply "Explain"; (3) Prompt Students to Share Their Reasoning; (4) Have Students Consider the Validity of a Given…

We offer an analysis of calculus assessment items that highlights ways to evaluate students' application of important meanings and support their engagement in generative ways of reasoning. Our central aim is to identify characteristics of items that require students to apply their understanding of key ideas. We coordinate this analysis of…

Transform mathematics instruction with the comprehensive mathematical competencies (CMC) framework--a research-based model that integrates seven essential competencies: conceptual and procedural integration, problem solving, logical reasoning, communication, tool use, pattern recognition, and student engagement. Through practical classroom…

Duncan Symons and Derek Holton discuss the different types of mathematical reasoning and what each of these might look like in the classroom. By suggesting language that can be used to describe the different methods of reasoning, they hope to provide teachers with the tools they need to better recognise and assess student reasoning.

To support teachers in implementing ambitious reform efforts, professional developers and teacher educators need to know more about teachers' thinking about argumentation. Specifically, there is a need to understand more about teachers' views and evaluations of "students'" mathematical arguments as they play out "in practice."…

This article examines a common proportional reasoning problem used in schools, often referred to as the Orange Juice task. The authors show how these six strategies described by Nikula (e.g., Unitizing, Norming, etc.) and one additional strategy can be used to either solve or make progress in the Orange Juice task. The article presents work from…

Teachers are continually in search of tasks that balance the dual priorities of rigorous thinking and fluency development. These often-competing priorities are emphasized by national-level organizations as well as by state-level standards and assessments. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) calls for school mathematics…

Suppose that there is an inexhaustible supply of $3 and $5 vouchers from the local supermarket. They may only be exchanged for items that cost an exact number of dollars made up from any combination of the vouchers. What is the highest amount not able to be obtained? This is an interesting problem in mathematical thinking and logic requiring only…

In this paper, we propose a potential interactional explanation of tertiary-to-secondary (dis)continuity: that of authority relations. Using secondary mathematics teachers' proof validations across two contexts, we suggest that secondary teachers' conceptions of authority shape their capacity to reconcile their positions as former mathematics…

Do you work tirelessly to make your math lessons meaningful, challenging, accessible, and engaging? Do you spend hours you don't have searching for, adapting, and creating tasks to provide rich experiences for your students that supplement your mathematics curriculum? Help has arrived! "Classroom Ready-Rich Math Tasks for Grades 2-3"…

Do you work tirelessly to make your math lessons meaningful, challenging, accessible, and engaging? Do you spend hours you don't have searching for, adapting, and creating tasks to provide rich experiences for your students that supplement your mathematics curriculum? Help has arrived! "Classroom Ready-Rich Math Tasks for Grades 4-5"…