ECF: Engaging Whole Bodies for Mathematics with Jasmine MaEarly Career FellowshipIn-Person

What are kids’ bodies doing during math class? We tend to imagine math problem-solving as something that happens in our minds, in conversation, or in writing. Consequently, much of mathematics teaching and learning has been relegated to individual student desks, small group tables, or discussions and demonstrations orchestrated on a whiteboard, while students are required to “sit still.” However, by reconnecting mathematics to our physical, perceptual selves, a whole-body approach can support learners’ sense-making and conceptual development. In this workshop we’ll explore what embodied movement and activity might mean for mathematics cognition, problem-solving, and understanding. We will briefly look at theories of learning that ground pervasive math instruction practices, as well as alternatives that might inform our practice. We will also experience examples of large-scale, whole-body activities in the topic areas of number sense, function, and geometry, and discuss ways to adapt and implement them.

This master class is open to teachers in the Early Career Fellowship and their mentors.