MathsTalk Podcast

In this episode, host Leanne McMahon sits down with Michael Evans, a renowned figure in mathematics education, to discuss the AMSI ICE-EM textbooks and their evolution. Michael provides an insightful look into the history of these textbooks, which have been instrumental in Australian classrooms for over 20 years. He highlights their unique development process, the collaborative efforts behind them, and their focus on deep understanding rather than rote learning. The episode also delves into the exciting updates coming with the incorporation of the Australian Curriculum Version 9, including algorithmic thinking, Indigenous perspectives, and enhanced online resources. With a strong emphasis on support for teachers, this episode is a must-listen for educators looking to maximize the potential of these innovative textbooks in their classrooms.

Resources:

Textbook information: https://schools.amsi.org.au/publications_category/publications/textbooks/

Textbook samples and ordering: https://cambridge.edu.au/iceem

AMSI online resources:

Calculate: https://calculate.org.au/

AMSI student and teacher modules: https://calculate.org.au/amsi-modules/

Classroom resources:

• Number and algebra: https://calculate.org.au/number-and-algebra/
• Measurement and Geometry: https://calculate.org.au/measurement-and-geometry/
• Units of work: https://calculate.org.au/units-of-work/
• Games: https://calculate.org.au/games/

In this episode of MathsTalk, Host, Leanne McMahon speaks with Cass Lowry, a PhD candidate researching the identification of high-quality mathematics resources. Cass shares her experiences at major conferences and discusses the need for a framework to help teachers discern effective math resources in the rapidly expanding online space. She highlights the importance of balancing problem-solving and explicit teaching and mentions her current research efforts, including a survey for Australian teachers. Cass also shares her top three maths websites, books and hands-on resources, :

Please help Cass by completing her survey: https://uninewcastle.questionpro.com.au/QMR-survey

2024 MANSW Annual Conference
3-day event:  30 September – 2 October
Twin Towns Tweed Heads
Theme: Teaching for, about and through problem solving
Keynote: Amie Albrecht
https://www.mansw.nsw.edu.au/events/category/2024-mansw-annual-conference

Websites:
Steve Wyborney’s blog https://www.stevewyborney.com
LoveMaths by Michael Minas: https://www.lovemaths.me/
OpenMiddle by Robert Kaplinsky. https://www.openmiddle.com

Books:
Mathematics Assessment for Learning: Rich tasks and Work Samples by Ann Downton, Rose Knight, Doug Clarke and Gerard Lewis

Rosenshine’s Principles in Action by Tom Sherington

Chasing Rabbits: A Curious Guide to a Lifetime of Mathematical Wellness by  Sunil Singh

Teaching Mathematics through Story Books byt Sheila Griffin and Dr Paul Swan https://drpaulswan.com.au/shop/teaching-mathematics-through-story-books-1-f-1/

EMMaths Virtual Summit: https://www.emmaths.com.au/events

Amplify Polypad: https://polypad.amplify.com/

Cass’s Pattern blocks presentation: https://bit.ly/ICME-15

In this episode of MathsTalk, Leanne interviews Nadia Abdelal, Director of EM Maths Consulting, about her latest blog post that traces two centuries of maths education in Australia. Nadia discusses how Australia’s educational reforms were initially influenced by Britain and how certain methodologies, such as the use of concrete manipulatives like Cuisenaire rods, the implementation of entrance and matriculation exams, and open-plan learning spaces, were integrated and evolved over time. The conversation highlights various educational initiatives and the professional development needed for effective teaching. Nadia emphasizes the importance of continuous professional learning and teacher development to improve maths education.

Contact us: MathsTalk@amsi.org.au

Contact Nadia: https://www.emmaths.com.au/

Blog post: https://www.emmaths.com.au/blog/tracing-two-centuries-of-maths-education-in-australia

Cuisenaire activities: https://calculate.org.au/2020/01/21/cuisenaire-rods/

Host Leanne McMahon welcomes PhD candidate Cassandra Lowry for a lively discussion centred on Cass’s presentation at the 2023 Maths Association of Victoria Conference. Formative assessment strategies that are easily implemented in your classroom and can have a huge effect on student learning.

Resources:

AMSI Paper: https://amsi.org.au/?publications=relieving-out-of-field-teaching-in-australian-secondary-mathematics

Podcast Out-of-Field Toolkit: Margaret Paton: https://open.spotify.com/show/5ktSjWBqd3SgmeuInYtzGx?si=fb4ffc1419e64407

Hobbs, L., Campbell, C., Delaney, s., Speldewinde, C. & Lai, J. (2020). Defining and mapping out-of-field teaching in Victorian government schools. Deakin University Retrieved from
https://static1.squarespace.com/static/57f5c6e0414fb53f7ae208fc/t/61727df5c5216e3ba4565c
48/1634893310963/TOOF+Mapping+Report+Hobbs+et+al+2020_Definitions+only.pdf

Ní Ríordáin, M., Paolucci, C., & O’ Dwyer, L. M. (2017). An examination of the professional development needs of out-of-field mathematics teachers. Teaching and Teacher Education, 64, 162-174. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tate.2017.02.001

Beswick, K. (2014). What teachers’ want: Identifying mathematics teachers’ professional learning needs. The Mathematics Enthusiast, 11(1), 83-108.

Desimone, L. M., & Garet, M. S. (2015). Best practices in teachers’ professional development in the
United States/Mejores practicas de desarrollo profesional docente en Estados Unidos.
Psychology, Society, & Education, 7(3), 252-278.

 Du Plessis, A. (2016). Leading teachers through the storm: Looking beyond the numbers and turning the implications of out-of-field teaching practices into positive challenges. International Journal of Educational Research, 79, 42-51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijer.2016.06.010

Goos, M., O’Donoghue, J., Ní Ríordáin, M., Faulkner, F., Hall, T., & O’Meara, N. (2020). Designing a national blended learning program for “out-of-field” mathematics teacher professional development ZDM, 52(5), 893-905. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11858-020-01136-y

Contact us: mathsTalk@amsi.org.au

Twitter (X): @AMSIschools

Host Leanne McMahon welcomes PhD candidate Cassandra Lowry for a lively discussion centred on Cass’s presentation at the 2023 Maths Association of Victoria Conference. Formative assessment strategies that are easily implemented in your classroom and can have a huge effect on student learning.

Resources:

Contact us: MathsTalk@amsi.org.au

Twitter (X) @cass_lowry (Cass)  @AMSIschools (MathsTalk)

LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/cassandra-lowry

Ask & Listen vs. Tell & Sell (Article)

Ibarra, H. & Scoular, A. (2019). The leader as coach: How to unleash innovation, energy, and commitment. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2019/11/the-leader-as-coach

Rosenshine’s Principles (Book)

Sherrington, T. (2019). Rosenshine’s Principles in Action. John Catt: Melton, Woodbridge.

Checking for Understanding (Blog) Tom Sherrington – 5 ways to check for understanding https://teacherhead.com/2021/12/02/five-ways-to-check-for-understanding/

Questioning (YouTube Video) Dylan Wiliam – Questioning https://youtu.be/y8bHMd3PosM

Diagnostic Questions (Website)

Craig Barton (from Mr Barton Maths Podcast) developed site that includes 25 thousand questions and quizzes to help diagnose student misconceptions https://diagnosticquestions.com/

Contact Info

MAV Conference 30 Nov – 1 Dec 2023 https://www.mav.vic.edu.au/Conference/Annual-Conference

In this episode, Leanne is joined by mathematics education expert Nadia Abdelal to explore the pros and cons of using calculators for students in years 5 to 8. Gain valuable insights into how calculators can enhance understanding and problem-solving skills, as well as the concerns surrounding their potential overreliance. Discover practical strategies for striking the right balance between technology and traditional maths methods. Tune in to MathsTalk, where maths is not just about numbers; it’s a journey of discovery!

• https://misterwootube.com/
• https://misterwootube.com/2020/03/18/books-tv-2/
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXwStduNw14&ab_channel=TEDxTalks

Host, Leanne McMahon welcomes Maths consultant and PhD candidate, Lynelle Campbell to the podcast this week. Lynelle is looking at numeracy intervention strategies for young children and has come up with a list of 7 strategies that can help students who are struggling to get maths. The importance of ‘Number Sense’ is reiterated many times and the ideas are easily used in classrooms from early years right through to secondary.

Lynelle’s website: https://lynzeducation.com.au/

Contact us: MathsTalk@amsi.org.au

The Number Sense Podcast: https://mathstalk.podbean.com/e/developing-number-sense-in-young-children/

A visual summary of Lynelle’s 7 strategies (PDF Chart)

AMSI ICE-EM textbooks: https://schools.amsi.org.au/ice-em-mathematics-textbooks/

Twitter: @AMSISchools

Facebook: MathsTalk by AMSI Schools

In this must-listen episode, host Leanne McMahon talks to Professor Chris Matthews from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mathematics Alliance (ATSIMA) about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural cross-curriculum priority inclusion in the new Maths Curriculum in Australian schools. Chris shares his mathematical and cultural history and challenges teachers to examine how the concept of Terra Nullius has affected the role of both indigenous and non-indigenous Australians today. He discusses the importance of culture to all students and looks at some relevant contexts and ways in which teachers can include the cultural priority in their planning.

Contact Chris: https://atsima.com/

MathsTalk Feedback: MathsTalk@amsi.org.au

Chris’s talk – AMSI Summer School (Maths & Culture): https://youtu.be/ZSnhdhltw3w?si=x3dKlD4ARY4avbGD (click on watch recording link)

Teacher Magazine Link: https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/authors/chris-matthews

The Orb: https://www.theorb.tas.gov.au/

ACARA Priority description: https://tinyurl.com/ATSIpriority

Welcome to MathsTalk, the podcast hosted by Leanne McMahon, with special guest, the ever popular Nadia Abdelal, a highly respected Maths consultant from EM Maths Consulting. In this episode, Nadia shares insights on assessment, including triangulation, great assessment tasks, rubrics, and more. As educators, we know that assessment is not just about testing, but also about gathering meaningful data to inform our instructional practices. Nadia will shed light on how triangulation, which involves using multiple sources of evidence to assess student learning, can provide a more comprehensive picture of students’ mathematical understanding. She will also discuss the importance of well-designed assessment tasks that align with learning goals and engage students in deep mathematical thinking. Whether you’re a maths teacher or passionate about mathematics education, this episode provides valuable insights into assessment strategies for better understanding students’ mathematical learning. Let’s dive into the world of assessment with Nadia Abdelal on MathsTalk!

Resources:

To contact Nadia: https://www.emmaths.com.au

To contact us: MathsTalk@AMSI.org.au or our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/amsischools

Triangulation: Oliver-Hoyo, M., & Allen, D. (2006). The use of triangulation methods in qualitative educational research. Journal of College Science Teaching, 35(4), 42–47.

https://www.madlylearning.com/assessment-and-the-triangulation-of-data/

Number talks: https://www.emmaths.com.au/post/number-talks

https://books.google.com.au/books/about/Number_Talks.html?id=p4B9F1u2T4kC&redir_esc=y

NAPLAN Spreadsheet: Contact Nadia and she will pass on the link to the spreadsheet https://www.emmaths.com.au

Formulating an expression (Year 7) https://acaraweb.blob.core.windows.net/acaraweb/docs/default-source/assessment-and-reporting-publications/e6-naplan-2016-final-test-numeracy-year-7-(non-calc).pdf?sfvrsn=2(Question 15)

Fraction Strips: https://www.math-salamanders.com/printable-fraction-strips.html

Trading game: See the classroom activity using place value houses http://amsi.org.au/teacher_modules/Using_place_value4-7.html

Michael Minas: Podcast – MathsTalk Episode 10

Love Maths website: https://www.lovemaths.me/

Rob Vingerhoets: http://robvingerhoets.com.au/maths/

Victorian Department of Education: https://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/teachingresources/discipline/maths/Pages/maths-and-numeracy-assessment.aspx

NSW Department of Education: https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/k-10/understanding-the-curriculum/assessment

Host Leanne McMahon has a long awaited discussion with Maths educator and former AMSI Schools Mathematics Advisor Cass Lowry about great Maths activities that are flexible enough to be done in the classroom, in hybrid mode or via remote learning. This conversation took place when schools were moving to remote learning daily and teachers needed to be able to switch easily and without taking hours in preparation.

The activities are as timely today as they were then and Cass gives some fabulous ideas on how they can be used in both primary and secondary settings.

Cass can be contacted via Twitter @Cass_Lowry

Contact us on MathsTalk@amsi.org.au with any comments, queries or suggestions

Remote and Classroom Learning Resources

 Which one doesn’t belong? A shapes book ~ Christopher Danielson (2016) Stenhouse Publishers

• Which one doesn’t belong? http://wodb.ca/
• How many? A counting book ~ Christopher Danielson (2018) Stenhouse Publishers
• Talking Math With Your Kids: https://talkingmathwithkids.com/
• Christopher Danielson @Trianglemancsd
• Search Twitter: #tmwyk #unitchat #WODB
• Same or Different ~ Meaningful Math Moments (Jennifer Barker) http://www.meaningfulmathmoments.com/same-or-different.html
• Same or Different Examples (Brian Bushart) https://samedifferentimages.wordpress.com/
• Brian Bushart @bstockus
• Search Twitter for: #samediffmath #ElemMathChat

• Dan Finkel – Number Talks https://mathforlove.com/lesson/number-talks/
• Dan Finkel @MathForLove
• Nat Banting – Fraction Talks http://fractiontalks.com/
• Nat Banting @NatBanting
• Number Talks – YouCubed (Jo Boaler) https://www.youcubed.org/resources/stanford-onlines-learn-math-teachers-parents-number-talks/
• Mathematical Number Talks http://www.mathnumbertalks.com/resources/
• Number Strings: https://numberstrings.com/what-is-a-number-string/

• Steve Wyborney – Subitizing Slides https://stevewyborney.com/2018/09/100-subitizing-slides-10-challenge-patterns/
• Steve Wyborney – Splat! https://stevewyborney.com/2018/09/splat-for-google-slides-40-lessons/
• Steve Wyborney – Esti-Mysteries https://stevewyborney.com/2019/09/51-esti-mysteries/
• Steve Wyborney @SteveWyborney

• Robert Kaplinsky – Open Middle https://www.openmiddle.com/
• Robert Kaplinsky @robertkaplinsky and @openmiddle

• Pam Harris – MathStratChat Examples https://www.mathisfigureoutable.com/mathstratchat
• Pam Harris @pwharris
• Search Twitter: #MathStratChat

• Berkeley Everett – Number Search https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPUhHweMG3cpSQ2CRL0scB2KtIKi2D6UFLrLtVuBNpr_z-UWsqce6nzZGmkWi5UWA?key=QlZfb2Rtd05vbXRiVklUSldiUGVTSVMxd2hINXJn
• Berkeley Everett @BerkeleyEverett
• Simon Gregg @Simon_Gregg
• Search Twitter: #numbersearch

Great Maths Instructional Videos

• Howie Hua https://www.youtube.com/c/HowieHua1/
• James Tanton https://www.youtube.com/c/JamesTanton_SquineCosquineTanq
• Joel Speranza https://www.youtube.com/c/JoelSperanzaMath
• Eddie Woo https://www.youtube.com/c/misterwootube

Transcript of podcast “Effective and Collaborative Problem Solving”

Michaela’s website: https://www.michaelaepstein.com.au/

Other links discussed by Michaela:

Maths Teacher Circles website: https://mathsteachercircles.org/amsi
We share problems on a regular basis that we believe you will love:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MathsCirclesOz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MathsTeacherCircles/
Samantha Hellessey’s Twitter https://twitter.com/s_hellessey?s=20&t=edSZrVJoQVJGk-troBLsHQ
A presentation given by Norman Do at AMSI https://rhed.amsi.org.au/dr-norman-radio/
Some good sources of Problems:

NZ Maths https://nzmaths.co.nz/problem-solving (Some great articles to read here too)
NRich from the University of Cambridge. https://nrich.maths.org/ (Also terrific articles)
Not free, but worth checking out is Problemo https://problemo.edu.au/
Re Solve – Maths by inquiry https://resolve.edu.au/
AMSI Calculate has some lessons written up for you https://calculate.org.au/
Contact us on MathsTalk@amsi.org.au or Twittter @AMSIschools or Facebook MathsTalk by AMSI Schools

The Grattan Institute recently released a report looking at the benefits of a coordinated, whole-school approach
to planning – which carefully sequences learning of key knowledge and skills across subjects and year levels. In this episode, Leanne McMahon (AMSI) and Nadia Abdelal from EM Maths discuss the significance of this report and how the recommendations would play out in schools. Naturally we focus on Mathematics, but this is a discussion that belongs across all learning areas.
The report can be found here: https://grattan.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Ending-the-lesson-lottery-Grattan-Report.pdf
Nadia can be contacted here: https://www.emmaths.com.au/
Leanne can be contacted here: mathstalk@amsi.org.au
Find resources and ICE-EM Books at https://calculate.org.au/

Host Leanne McMahon talks to Teacher education expert and former AMSI Outreach Officer, Helen Booth about the ‘elephant in the room’ for many primary teachers, Maths Anxiety. We look at its origins, how it may manifest itself and the effect it can have on our students. Secondary school maths teachers will also be interested in this topic, as they may have remnants of MA themselves, or could be asked to work with out of field colleagues who carry the burden.

Resources:

ICE-EM Textbooks: https://schools.amsi.org.au/ice-em-mathematics-textbooks/

Maths Anxiety paper used for stimulation:
Gerardo Ramirez, Stacy T. Shaw & Erin A. Maloney (2018) Math Anxiety: Past Research, Promising Interventions, and a New Interpretation Framework, Educational Psychologist, 53:3, 145-164, DOI: 10.1080/00461520.2018.1447384

AMSI Research into MA: https://schools.amsi.org.au/2019/01/14/choosemaths-days-2018-report-3-2/

Maths Anxiety and Gender: https://schools.amsi.org.au/2019/06/21/choosemaths-gender-report-2019/

Calculate: https://calculate.org.au/

Contact us at: MathsTalk@amsi.org.au

In our special episode aimed at Senior Mathematics students and their teachers, host, Leanne McMahon talks to the highly respected mathematics educator Vicky Kennard about how these students can use the last few weeks before the exams to maximise their chances of success. We look at where you should be at this stage and very importantly what to do if you’re not there yet.

ICE-EM Textbooks: https://schools.amsi.org.au/ice-em-mathematics-textbooks/
Neuroscience and education: https://www.youcubed.org/neuroscience-education-article/
Interleaving: https://www.edutopia.org/article/how-use-interleaving-foster-deeper-learning
Pomodoro Method: https://todoist.com/productivity-methods/pomodoro-technique

This is the first in a two part series, directed at all who teach and learn Mathematics. Host, Helen Booth talks with respected educator Vicky Kennard about the science of learning maths and how this can be put into practice by both teachers and students. They delve into study methods, learning theories, growth mindset and a plethora of other aspects of Maths learning. This will be a great episode to listen to before next week’s podcast that will be directed at senior students and how they can best use the last couple of months before exams.
Resources:

ICE-EM Textbooks: https://schools.amsi.org.au/ice-em-mathematics-textbooks/

Neuroscience and education: https://www.youcubed.org/neuroscience-education-article/

Interleaving: https://www.edutopia.org/article/how-use-interleaving-foster-deeper-learning

Pomodoro Method: https://todoist.com/productivity-methods/pomodoro-technique

Host, Leanne McMahon welcomes Marcus Garrett, former MathsTalk host and current Learning Solutions Designer at RMIT Online to discuss the idea that digital mindsets which are underpinned by mathematics, are the key to unlocking opportunities for young people in the jobs market, opportunities in life and also opportunities for the Australian economy.

Deloitte Access Economics and RMIT Online concluded in a report that one of the biggest emerging skill needs for the Australian economy remains digital skills, meaning the data and data interpretation skills that give people the confidence and the capacity to use digital technologies to make sound data-driven decisions when faced with complex problems. We look at how teachers can facilitate the development of these skills throughout school and how the RMIT Online team enable teachers and other professionals to build their data interpretation skills and maybe even increase their income in the process.

Resources:

ICE-EM textbooks: https://schools.amsi.org.au/ice-em-mathematics-textbooks/

RMIT Online: https://online.rmit.edu.au/

Ready, set, upskill: Effective training for the jobs of tomorrow: https://online.rmit.edu.au/insights/2021

Contact us: https://calculate.org.au/contact-schools/

Host Leanne McMahon sits down to talk with Kerryn Sandford, a mathematics educator and principal of a secondary school in Melbourne, about her thoughts on how we can ensure our students achieve success in mathematics.

This episode sponsored by AMSI’s own ICE-EM textbook range: https://schools.amsi.org.au/ice-em-mathematics-textbooks/

We cover all manner of topics that she mentions in her article in the latest edition of MAV’s “Common Denominator” which can be accessed here:

https://www.mav.vic.edu.au/Services-and-News/Common-Denominator-Magazine

Other topics covered are:

Out of Field Maths teachers: https://tinyurl.com/AMSIOoF Also keep an eye out for the Report from the National Summit on Teaching Out-of-field: Synthesis and Recommendations for Policy, Practice and Research. Due end of June 2022.

Year 12 mathematics participation report: https://tinyurl.com/AMSIMathsChoices

Explicit Instruction: https://tinyurl.com/ExplicitInstructionVicEd

Twitter: @AMSIschools

Contact us: https://calculate.org.au/mathstalk-podcast/

Host Leanne McMahon talks to educator and digital guru Greg O’Connor from Texthelp. Greg poses some of the problems he sees in how our students are learning maths and suggests some solutions for overcoming these issues. Contact us at www.calculate.org.au or https://www.facebook.com/amsischools

Resources:

Contact Greg:
Email: g.oconnor@texthelp.com
Twitter @gregoconnor
Webpage: gregoryoconnor.com

Texthelp
www.texthelp.com

EquatIO
https://www.texthelp.com/en-au/products/equatio/

EquatIO – Free for Teachers
https://text.help/freeforteachers

EquatIO For Schools/Universities – contact asiapac@texthelp.com

Other resources:

Early math skills predict later academic success

Australia’s Chief Scientist 2020 Australia’s STEM Workforce Report

A couple of posts by Greg:

• Literacy the real barrier to STEM uptake
• Can educational technologies help to reverse Australia’s maths slump?
• How should schools tackle the maths slump?

Research has shown that mathematics textbooks contain more concepts per sentence and paragraph than any other type of text.

Joan M. Kenney (2005) Literacy Strategies for Improving Mathematics Instruction, ASCD, 2005

STEM texts are often written above the grade level for which they are intended
Barton, M. L., Heidema, C., & Jordan, D. (2002). Teaching Reading in Mathematics and Science. Educational leadership, 60(3), 24-28. PDF

Does reading *really* matter in mathematics?
https://www.theconfidentteacher.com/2021/04/does-reading-really-matter-in-mathematics/

Readability with Rewordify
https://rewordify.com/

Host Leanne McMahon talks all things tutoring with a ‘maths education novice.’ We discuss the options available for tutoring from a parental perspective and then look at how teachers (and parents) can use the Tutor learning initiative in Victorian schools (and also available in other states) As a spoiler, we came to a conclusion that private tutoring should probably be sought out as an option only if the student is prepared to take an active part in their classes and seek help from their teacher or school-based programs. We discuss the difficulty that parents have in finding a good tutor and make some suggestions. (another spoiler: It’s difficult and expensive in an unregulated industry.)

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Tutor Learning Initiative resources: https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/tutor-learning-initiative/resources

Determining the impact of TLI : https://lens.monash.edu/@education/2021/11/05/1384024/the-tutor-learning-initiative-needs-be-open-to-learning-but-not-just-by-students

Assessment for common misunderstandings: https://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/teachingresources/discipline/maths/assessment/Pages/misunderstandings.aspx

English research into the use of teaching assistants in the classroom: https://www.evidenceforlearning.org.au/assets/Guidance-Reports/Teaching-Assistants/E4L-Guidance-Report-Teaching-Assistants-Sep-WEB.pdf *Note that this deals with teaching assistants – not trained teachers. In fact it highlights the need for trained teachers and reinforces the value of the TLI

In our first ‘live’ podcast for 2021, host, Leanne McMahon talks to Mathematics Consultant Nadia Abdelal. They discuss the importance of teaching for conceptual understanding, and why it needs to be extended into secondary classes. This is a must-listen for primary and secondary teachers alike and will hopefully stimulate some real discussion in staffrooms across Australia and the world. It is the first in a 2-part series on conceptual understanding in Mathematics and next week we will continue our discussion with a dive into teaching algebra for conceptual understanding.

Contact us at www.calculate.org.au 

Nadia’s website: https://emmaths.com.au

An NCTM article about teaching Maths for conceptual understanding: https://www.nctm.org/Publications/Mathematics-Teaching-in-Middle-School/2018/Vol24/Issue1/Promoting-a-Conceptual-Understanding-of-Mathematics/

Marcus discusses the importance of Context in Mathematics: https://calculate.org.au/2016/02/19/2498/

Jo Boaler highlights that learning number facts is not all about procedure, and in fact a conceptual approach is more effective: https://www.youcubed.org/evidence/fluency-without-fear/

Due to popular demand we are re-releasing the episodes from 2020 that look at starting the year in Mathematics.

In the first Mathstalk series of the year, the team looks at starting the year in Mathematics. From setting up your classroom with resources, planning and delivering the best Maths lessons you can, to our favourite games, warmups and fun routines. In today’s episode, host Marcus Garrett talks to Cass Lowry (primary) and Leanne McMahon (secondary) about what Maths Classrooms need. They discuss must-have manipulatives in both primary and secondary classrooms and also look at On-line resources and Text books.

Related Links:

• Classroom Resources
• Counting Charts
• Bead Strings
• Cuisenaire Rods
• Pattern Blocks
• Decimats
• Linear Arithmetic Blocks (LAB) [External link]
• Decimats: Helping students make sense of decimal place value (Anne Roche) [Article]
• Deciwire: An inexpensive alternative for constructing linear representations of decimals (Jenny Young-Loveridge & Judith Mills) [Article]

In this Tea Break episode, host Claire Embregts is joined by AMSI Outreach Officer Anna Bock who shares some ideas and strategies that teachers can implement in the classroom to support their students with understanding the concept of Addition. We chat about some of the ideas that underpin Addition and the importance of providing practical situations with adding single digit numbers before moving to larger numbers. A range of links to resources are provided for teachers and parents.

Here are some resources for the Podcast.

For Teachers:

• https://calculate.org.au/2018/09/14/building-number-sense-through-number-talks/
• https://www.researchgate.net/publication/254705172_Written_algorithms_in_the_primary_years_Undoing_the_’good_work’
• https://amsi.org.au/teacher_modules/Addition_and_subtraction.html
• https://www.cem.edu.au/CatholicEducationMelbourne/media/Documentation/Documents/Key-Ideas-in-Maths.pdf

For Parents:

• https://calculate.org.au/2020/07/09/number-talks-for-parents/
• https://calculate.org.au/2020/05/21/partitioning-one-is-a-snail-ten-is-a-crab/
• https://calculate.org.au/2020/04/29/addition-and-subtraction/

Leanne McMahon interviews Mathematics Association of Victoria Events Manager, Jacqui Diamond about the upcoming Virtual Conference. We discuss how Covid-19 has thrown a spanner in the works of one of the biggest events in the Australian Maths Education community’s year and how Jacqui has devised ingenious ways of making the conference bigger and better. If you would like to contribute to the “LIVE” (not quite live) MAV Virtual Conference podcast as described in this podcast, share your MP3 or wav file, recorded on your phone (or wherever) using https://wetransfer.com to Leanne@amsi.org.au(sharing this way because they’re often too big to email)

While the conference is completely sold out, it’s worth listening to the ‘headline acts’ and looking them up using the links below.

• James Tanton: http://www.jamestanton.com/
• Peter Sullivan: https://research.monash.edu/en/persons/peter-sullivan
• Paul Swan: https://drpaulswan.com.au/

Host Leanne McMahon is joined by AMSI Outreach Officer and MathsTalk Twitter chat host, Cass Lowry to discuss the idea of Mathematical Fluency. This conversation stems from a #MathsTalk Twitter chat on the same topic held on November 12^th 2020 that led to spirited debate and some great ideas

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• Wakelet Collection #MathsTalk Fluency
• Jo Boaler (@joboaler) article: Fluency without Fear
• Katherin Cartwright (@kath_cartwright) research paper: Analyzing students’ communication and representation of mathematical fluency during group tasks (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0732312320300857?dgcid=author)
• Primary Learning Website
• Greg Fletcher (@gfletchy): Developing Fact Fluency Through Context
• Dan Finkel (@MathforLove): Number Talks
• Ollie Lovell (@ollie_lovell) book: Cognitive Load Theory in Action
• Calculate resources to help build mathematical fluency:
• Bead Strings
• See & Say
• ROWCO
• Bunny Ears

Host Claire Embregts grabs a cuppa with AMSI Schools Outreach Officer Leanne McMahon to talk about the importance of the equals sign in Mathematics. We chat about the common misconceptions behind the equals sign and what teachers can do to avoid or rectify these misconceptions. Much of our discussion centres around a presentation from Max Stephens at the MERGA conference in 2006, a paper from which can be found here. https://merga.net.au/Public/Publications/Annual_Conference_Proceedings/2006_MERGA_CP.aspx

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• https://merga.net.au/Public/Publications/Annual_Conference_Proceedings/2006_MERGA_CP.aspx

Hosts Leanne McMahon and Michael O’Connor are  joined by Mike Clapper, former Executive Director and Chief Mathematician at the Australian Mathematics Trust, to talk about geometry and its importance in the Australian Curriculum. We cover everything from why we teach geometry and how to develop geometric reasoning in our students to packing your car boot on camping holidays. Mike has kindly provided some accompanying episode notes which will be available to download through our calculate.org.au website as well as some links to some other related resources.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• The AMT site where you can find the links to many different problem-solving activities, competitions and resources that Mike mentioned
• AMT problem solving activities that encompass many aspects of Geometry
• Some interesting and fun geometry lessons
• Times modules. Geometry ideas for years P-10
• Visual patterns that grow. Useful in showing the relationship between algebra and geometry
• problemo.edu.au

Have you ever felt the urge to dip your toe in the murky waters of Twitter? In this episode, host, Leanne McMahon talks to Outreach Officer Cass Lowry about how to get started on Twitter and how it can be used as a part of your professional learning. We look at setting up your account, lurking, liking and finally getting involved in Twitter Chats – Especially ours! #MathsTalk 8pm AEST every Thursday.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• Teachers on Twitter – Why you should join and how to get started
• EduTwitter Chats
  • #TLAPdownunder – Sunday 8pm AEST
  • #aussieED – Sunday 8.30pm AEST
  • #MathsTalk – Thursday 8pm AEST
  • #PrimarySTEMChat – Thursday 8.30pm AEST
  • #whatisschool – Friday 9am AEST
• Tips for managing a fast-paced Twitter chat (Craig Kemp)
• Why you should switch from Twitter to Tweetdeck

Host, Marcus Garrett talks to two members of the AMSI Outreach team, Cass Lowry and Michael O’Connor about the important proficiency of reasoning and how we can develop this in students of all ages, from pre-primary to later secondary. Contact us if you have comments or suggestions.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• Which one doesn’t belong? A shapes book by Christopher Danielson
• Which one doesn’t belong? (Website with examples)
• Talking Math with your kids
• Connect with Christopher Danielson via Twitter @Trianglemancsd
• Also on Twitter search for the hashtag #wodb

This is the first episode in Series 4 for MathsTalk, in Term 3 of 2020 and in this series, we are focusing on Geometry. Host, Leanne McMahon chats with 2018 CHOOSEMATHS Teacher Award winner Sheila Griffin and fellow AMSI Schools Outreach Officer Anna Bock, about common student – and sometimes teacher – misconceptions in Geometry. We discuss how they can be tackled in the maths classroom in ways that engage students and really encourage them to think.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• Shelia Griffin – CHOOSEMATHS Outstanding Primary School Teacher Winner 2018
• Association of Independent Schools Western Australia (AISWA)
• Take Away Teaching Ideas #14 based on the book Monkey Puzzle (Andrea Hillbrick and Sheila Griffin)
• Özerem. A. (2012) Misconceptions in Geometry and suggested solutions for seventh grade. Procedia – Social and Behavioural Sciences, 55, 720-729
• Properties of Shape (Marj Horn) (https://www.aamt.edu.au/content/download/19062/252031/file/m~waves.pdf)
• Linking the Van Hiele Theory to Instruction (Tashana Howse & Mark Howse)
• Polygon Capture Game
• Pattern Blocks
• Finding Shapes and Objects 
• Virtual manipulatives and Online Tools 
• Natural Library of Virtual Manipulatives
• Toy Theatre’s Virtual Manipulatives
• Wassily Kandinsky
• M.C. Escher

Special guest Dr Catherine Attard discusses her latest blog post with AMSI Outreach Officers Marcus Garrett and Leanne McMahon. In a spirited conversation, they look at how teachers and parents can discern between good and not-so-great mathematics resources in this time of information overload. They also discuss effective use of technology in Mathematics, the difference between performing and learning in maths and what ‘home-schooling’ really means.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• Download Transcript
• Attard, C. (2020), Teaching maths in challenging times: Keep calm and remain critical! Blog post on Engaging Maths
• Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA), 2010, Mathematics Proficiencies
• Boaler, J. (1996), Case Studies of Alternative Approaches to Mathematics Teaching: Situated Cognition, Sex and Setting. Unpublished doctoral thesis, Kings College School of Education, University of London, UK
• Garrett, M. (2016), The Problem with Problem Solving
• Engaging Maths (by Dr Catherine Attard
• Joel Speranza – Leveraging Technology for Learning
• YouTube Channel: Joel Speranza Math
• Link to Dr Attard’s Research Project, ‘Investigating the impact of COVID-19 on teachers’ technology-related attitudes, beliefs and practices’ (call for survey participants)

This episode of MathsTalk looks at the importance of developing number sense in small children and how this can be done by both teachers and parents.

Hosts Leanne McMahon and Marcus Garrett speak with 2018 AMSI CHOOSEMATHS Teacher Award winner Sarah Rose, from the Hunter Valley in NSW.

Sarah gives some great ideas for the development of number sense in children from babies to later primary years.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• Download Transcript
• Boaler, J. (2020). YouCubed
• Callingham, R. (2011). Mathematics assessment: Everything old is new again? In J. Clark, B. Kissane, J. Mousley, T. Spencer & S. Thornton (Eds.), Mathematics: Traditions and practices, Proceedings of the 23rd Annual Conference of the Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia, (pp. 134‐141). Alice Springs, Australia : Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia (MERGA)
• Department of Education, NSW. (2017). Draft Schedule for Early Numeracy Assessment (SENA), Version 3 (Mapped to the National Numeracy Progressions) (http://www.earlyactionforsuccess.com.au/component/edocman/draft-sena-3-national-numeracy-learning-progressions-pdf.)
• Department of Education, NSW. (2019). Parents Count Too
• Department of Education and Training, Victoria. (2019). Early Years Interview (Numeracy) (https://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/teachingresources/discipline/maths/assessment/Pages/mathsassess.aspx)
• Duncan, G.J., Dowsett, C.J., Claessens, A., … Japel, C. (2007) School readiness and later achievement. Developmental Psychology, 43(6), 1428-1446. Washington DC, USA : American Psychological Association
• Lowry, C. (2017). Finding the Maths
• Reys, B., Reys, R., McIntosh, A., & Hope, J. (1997). Number SENSE: Simple Effective Number Sense Experiences. NJ, USA : Dale Seymour Publications
• Shumway, J. (2018). Number Sense Routines: Building Mathematical Understanding Every Day in Grades 3-5. Portland, ME, USA : Stenhouse Publishers
• Siemon, D., Beswick, K., Brady, K., Clark, J., Faragher, R., & Warren, E. (2015). Teaching Mathematics: Foundations to Middle Years. Melbourne, Australia : Oxford University Press
• Way, J. (2011). Number Sense Series: Developing Early Number Sense. Article on NRICH
• Wright, R.J., Ellemor-Collins, D., & Tabor, P.D. (2011). Developing Number Knowledge – Assessment, Teaching and Intervention with 7-11 year old. London, UK : Sage Publications.

In this episode of MathsTalk, Leanne and Marcus chat to recent CHOOSEMATHS Schools Outreach Officer and current secondary mathematics teacher Jacinta Blencowe about why allowing students to talk about their mathematical working and understanding is such a critical element in their maths education. They discuss the ways in which parents and teachers can develop children’s mathematical language and vocabulary and also provide some practical tips, resources and strategies for encouraging useful and productive discourse around mathematical working and problem solving.

Please note that due to remote recording under the sudden circumstances of work-from-home arrangements during the Covid-19 crisis, the recording sound quality for this and last episode is not to our usual standard. We are working on gaining access to equipment to ensure future from-home recordings are at the best sound quality possible.

Thanks for your understanding.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• At Home, All Ages Number Talks resources from ‘YouCubed’
• Jo Boaler’s Number Talks
• “100 Questions that Promote Mathematical Discourse” by ‘GettingSmart.com’
• Ontario Maths ‘Capacity Building’ Series – “Asking Effective Questions”
• Nrich Mathematics ‘Using Questioning to Stimulate Mathematical Thinking
• Resolve Mathematics (AAAMT and the Australian Academy of Science)
• A link to Sherry Parrish’s series of books on Number Talks
• Maths learning Conversations 

Host, Leanne McMahon introduces her fellow Outreach Officers from AMSI Schools and asks them what is their go-to Mathematics activity for children at home. We cover ages 5-16 and give some fun, practical tips for making Maths interesting and relevant for your house-bound mini mathematicians.

Please note that due to remote recording under the sudden circumstances of work-from-home arrangements during the Covid-19 crisis, the recording sound quality for this and last episode is not to our usual standard. We are working on gaining access to equipment to ensure future from-home recordings are at the best sound quality possible.

Thanks for your understanding.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• Jo Boaler’s You cubed
• Some visual patterns for Leanne’s activity
• The plan for Marcus’ activity
• This is the Catherine Attard (University of Western Sydney) website that talks about books
• NZ Maths: Picture books with Mathematical content
• David Butler (University of Adelaide) has a blog

In this Episode, Marcus Garrett speaks with mathematics education guru Michael Minas about using maths games and activities to engage students during home based learning, precipitated by the Covid-19 crisis during which most Australian classrooms are operating via distance learning. Michael provides parents, caregivers and teachers with both encouragement and some great, practical tips about how to engage – and focus – children and young people during this challenging time.

Please note that due to remote recording under the sudden circumstances of work-from-home arrangements during the Covid-19 crisis, the recording sound quality for this and last episode is not to our usual standard. We are working on gaining access to equipment to ensure future from-home recordings are at the best sound quality possible.

Thanks for your understanding.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• Download Transcript 
• AMSI Schools ‘Calculate’ site – “Games”
• Article: ‘Want Your Child to succeed in mathematics? Play with them’
• Michael Minas’s ‘LoveMaths’ website
• Michael Minas’s LoveMaths ‘Games’ web page

In our special ‘Social Isolation’ Episode, Host Marcus Garrett, talks to AMSI Schools Program Manager and CHOOSEMATHS Project Director, Janine Sprakel about what we should be doing to help children of all ages with their Mathematics at home. We look at the expectations on parents at this crazy time and how to manage them. We then examine some of the fantastic resources, ideas and games that can be found on the Calculate website and on other websites from around the world.

Learn how to enjoy this time with your children, with tips to find curriculum-linked games and activities, all designed to increase confidence and joy in students, parents and teachers alike.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• AMSI Maths Content Modules for teachers (and parents!)
• Supporting Australian Mathematics (SAM) Project Middle years Student Content Modules
• Student Units of Work – some great Maths projects to tackle at home!
• AMSI Schools ‘Calculate’ Games and Activities – loads of fun for families
• ‘CHOOSEMATHS Family Night’ maths Games and Activities compilation

In this episode, host Marcus Garrett talks to AMSI Outreach Officers Cass Lowry (primary) and Leanne McMahon (secondary) about what Maths Classrooms need. They discuss must-have manipulatives in both primary and secondary classrooms and also look at On-line resources and text books.

Related Links:

• Classroom Resources
• Counting Charts
• Bead Strings
• Cuisenaire Rods
• Pattern Blocks
• Decimats
• Linear Arithmetic Blocks (LAB) [External link]
• Decimats: Helping students make sense of decimal place value (Anne Roche) [Article]
• Deciwire: An inexpensive alternative for constructing linear representations of decimals (Jenny Young-Loveridge & Judith Mills) [Article]

Host Leanne McMahon talks to AMSI Schools Manager Janine Sprakel and Outreach Officer Marcus Garrett about the features of a good Maths lesson. We look at the structure, content, delivery and context of lessons and how to plan for a sensational learning experience with your students.

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• Download Transcript 
• Lead Article ‘What Makes for a Good Maths Lesson?’
• AMSI Schools’ ‘Games and Warm Ups’
• Calculate TIMES Modules

Useful Reading on using Warm Ups:

• Swan, P. (2019). Are you game? Prime Number, 34 (3). Retrieved from https://drpaulswan.com.au/article-are-you-game/
• Bragg, L. (2006). The impact of mathematical games on learning, attitudes, and behaviours.
• Russo, J., Russo, T. & Bragg, L.A. (2018). Five principles of educationally rich mathematical games. Australian Primary Mathematics Classroom, 23(3), 30-34. Retrieved from https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1231221.pdf.

In a special episode to celebrate International Maths Day, host Leanne McMahon talks to AMSI CHOOSEMATHS award winners Elizabeth Dewar and Ryan Jellie. We discuss the changes that they’ve made to the teaching of Maths at Boneo Primary School and how these changes have affected their students. AMSI Outreach Officer Marcus Garrett joins Leanne in a road trip to Boneo to talk to the students and hear about their interpretation of ‘Maths is everywhere.’

Join the conversation on @AMSIschools Twitter.

Related Links:

• AMSI Calculate PL Article – ‘Engaging Students in Mathematics: Why Context is Critical’
• CHOOSEMATHS Awards 2019 Winners Profiles – Elizabeth Dewar and Ryan Jellie (as featured on this episode)
• Media Article – ‘Maths Award for Top Teachers’ 
• International Pi day (International Day of Mathematics) Official website‘
• Engaging Maths: 25 Favourite Lessons 2nd Edition’ by (https://aamt.edu.au/Webshop/Entire-catalogue/Engaging-Maths-25-Favourite-Lessons-2nd-Edition)Doug Clarke and Anne Roche – available from the AAMT online book store
• AMSI Calculate ‘Pi Day’ Activities

Host Leanne McMahon chats to AMSI Schools Outreach Officers Nadia Abdelal and Marcus Garrett about multiplication in this final episode in the Multiplication Matters series. They talk everything arrays, how they connect to vertical algorithms as well as why they are important in algebraic expansion and factorisation.

Related Links: 

• Download Transcript

• ‘Multiplication Toss’ Game (Department of Education, Victoria) –https://www.education.vic.gov.au/Documents/school/teachers/teachingresources/discipline/maths/assessment/multiplicationtoss.pdf
• AMSI Schools ‘TIMES’ Modules – Multiplication of Whole Numbers (Years 5-8) –http://amsi.org.au/teacher_modules/multiplication_of_whole_numbers.html
• CRA (Concrete, Representational, Abstract) Model –https://makingeducationfun.wordpress.com/2012/04/29/concrete-representational-abstract-cra/;https://www.ldatschool.ca/concrete-representational-abstract/
• Clarke, D. (2005), ‘Written algorithms in the primary years: Undoing the ‘good work’?’ In Making Mathematics Vital: Proceedings of the Twentieth Biennial Conference of the Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers. Retrieved from https://sesccoop.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Written-Algorithms-in-the-Primary-Years-Undoing-the-Good-Work.pdf.
• Multiplying Using Arrays, Grids and Areas – Cast 1 – Powerpoint Presentation
  https://calculate.org.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/15/2019/08/multiplying-using-arrays-grids-and-areas-cast-1.pptx 

Hosts Marcus Garrett and Nadia Abdelal continue the discussion with Outreach Officer Helen Booth on the teaching of fractions and decimals. This episode focuses on the five fractional constructs and the importance of delivering these in a more conceptual way.

Related Links: 

• Download Transcript

• AMSI Schools ‘TIMES’ Modules – ‘Fractions’ (Years 5-8): http://amsi.org.au/teacher_modules/fractions.html
• AMSI Schools ‘TIMES’ Modules – ‘Rates & Ratios’ (Years 5-8): http://amsi.org.au/teacher_modules/rates_and_ratio.html
• Bryony’s Triangle (N-Rich Maths): https://nrich.maths.org/7392
• Fraction Talks:  http://fractiontalks.com/
• Fraction Talks (MathForLove): https://mathforlove.com/lesson/fraction-talks/
• Fraction Talks (How We Teach): https://howweteach.com/math-talk-fraction-talk/

Host Nadia Abdelal and AMSI Schools Outreach Officer Leanne McMahon delve further into multiplicative concepts, with a focus on the pedagogical progressions. They chat about the importance of subitising and how this developmental milestone paves the way for successful multiplicative development.

Related Links: 

• Download Transcript

Host Marcus Garrett and AMSI Schools Outreach Officer Helen Booth discuss the difficulties that students have with learning fractions and decimals, how this can impact learning and ways to address these.

Related Links: 

• Download Transcript
• Fazio, L. K., Bailey, D. H., Thompson, C. A., & Siegler, R. S. (2014). Relations of different types of numerical magnitude representations to each other and to mathematics achievement. Journal of experimental child psychology, 123, 53-72.
• Torbeyns, J., Schneider, M., Xin, Z., & Siegler, R. S. (2015). Bridging the gap: Fraction understanding is central to mathematics achievement in students from three different continents. Learning and Instruction, 37, 5-13.
• Decimal Comparison Test (External Link)
• Decimals_fractionally-more-interesting (PowerPoint Presentation)
• Compare-and-order-common-unit-fractions(PDF)

Host Marcus Garrett and AMSI Schools Outreach Officer Leanne McMahon discuss the difference between ‘knowing multiplication facts’ and ‘multiplicative thinking’. They chat about the developmental sequence of multiplication-related concepts from the early years through to the middle years in the Australian maths curriculum.

Related Links: 

• Download Transcript

• Multiplication Part 1
• Multiplication Part 2
• Multiplication Part 3
• Multiplication and Division
• Multiplication of Whole Numbers
• Multiples, Factors and Powers