"Math
Matters provides the foundation and philosophy
to teach conceptual understanding without
negating the sandards."
"I feel very
enthusiastic about the upcoming school year and
implementing the Math Matters curriculum in my
class. (Some of the techniques I was already
using.) I also feel I have a much better feelin
about being a P.I. school (less negative - less
adversarial) and about having visitors (coaches)
in my class. -- I am feeling much better and
more informed and empowered."
"Professionally,
I learned some new things that I will definitely
integrate into my teaching -- specifically the
"zero field" for teaching integers, as well as
some of the alternative algorithms. It will also
be a definite plus for me to be at an official
Math matters school, since I have been doing
most of the techniques for the past 5 years
without any coaching or support."
"The
techniques used for classroom management are
excellent. I have learned that hand signals, use
of space, mode of response are so vital to
successful interaction and response from the
children."
"I have
learned how some children need to learn in
different ways. Aslo I learned about using head
problems and how these are useful for
students."
"I now
believe I am capable of making the needed shift
from teaching the processes of mathematics to
teaching the concepts, number sense, and
processes. I did not believe I could understand
it and, since I was successful in math without
the understanding, that it wasn't really
necessary to teach my students that way
(denial). I've dreaded algebra and integers in
the classroom because of this. Now I am excited
about the opportunity to teach them. I am
looking forward to the future in-services and
coaching experiences."
"I notice
now that I am more aware of my teaching. I am
looking at the standards more, where before I
knew that what I was teaching was standards
based, but was not sure as to what standard I
was focusing on."
"It gave me
a whole new perspective in teaching math. The
MIFF techniques are wonderful."
"I see lots
of areas that need improvement and I know I can
be successful. The implementation of Math
Matters strategies will have a positive effect
on my students and that will positively impact
me."