Mr Barton Maths Podcast #029 Andrew Blair: Inquiry Maths
Sep 7, 2017
Andrew Blair, Head of Maths at Haverstock School and creator of InquiryMaths.org, dives into innovative teaching methods. He discusses the balance between inquiry-based learning and explicit instruction, sharing insights on crafting engaging prompts that ignite student curiosity. The conversation touches on navigating early teaching challenges and the emotional impact of classroom management. Blair emphasizes the importance of collaboration in understanding math concepts, and the necessity of adapting teaching strategies to foster creativity and deeper learning.
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InquiryEmpowers Student Direction
- Students should regulate their own exploration guided by prompts with teachers as arbiters, not controllers.
- Inquiry Maths encourages student responsibility for lesson direction for deeper mathematical engagement.
Use Prompts and Questions to Guide
- Begin inquiry lessons with intriguing prompts to hook students and encourage them to ask questions.
- Use student questions to assess understanding and decide if procedural teaching is required.
Adapt Teaching Based on Student Needs
- Adapt lessons based on student needs observed during inquiry; teach procedures if students request.
- Don’t force all students to do the same task; target help to those who need it.
