Making Math Moments That Matter Using Curiosity to Engage Students With Abstract Concepts - An Interview With Elana Reiser
Today we speak with University Professor, author and former Making Math Moments That Matter Online Workshop participant, Elana Reise. Elana joins us today to chat about how we can leverage curiosity to engage students in solving abstract mathematics - in particular, mathematical proofs!
Join us for a great conversation with Elana where we discuss her initial hesitation to get into mathematics education and where it has taken her to advocate for the inclusion of a course on mathematical proofs which has now grown to be a compulsory credit for all math students!
You’ll Learn:
- How to modify abstract math topics (like proofs) to become more curious and engaging;
- What you can do to teach your students about productive struggle; and,
- How to build and use a problem solving framework to help your students become more resilient.
Resources:
- How to think like a mathematician by Sara VanderWerf
- Pennies and Paperclips - Steven Strogatz on YouCubed.org
- The Science of Learning Mathematical Proofs - Elana Reiser
- The Thinking Classroom - Peter Liljedahl
- Scienceofproofs.com
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Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.