What is a Middle School Math Teachers' Circle?
Teachers' Circles are collaborations between research mathematicians, middle school math teachers, and school administrators. A Teachers' Circle provides an opportunity for teachers to engage in mathematical problem solving and deepen their understanding of mathematics. This problem solving approach to mathematics is a structure that can be implemented in teachers work with students.
The main activities of a Teachers' Circle are problem solving sessions for middle school math teachers led by a mathematician. Rather than emphasizing math exercises, the techniques discussed during the Teachers' Circles sessions aim to create a culture of problem solving among middle school mathematics teachers.
At each of our sessions, the first part will be devoted to actively engaging in mathematical problem solving together and the latter part of our time will be addressing teachers concerns, how to implement problem solving in the classroom and connections to the Common Core Standards.
Another important aspect of the Teachers' Circles is to create a network among math teachers and research mathematicians. This network becomes an invaluable resource of ideas, activities, and support with fellow professionals.
How Can I Participate?
The Northern Colorado Math Teachers' Circle is planning to offer a residential summer immersion institute from June 26-29, 2012 and six monthly dinner meetings throughout the 2012-2013 academic year at the University of Northern Colorado. We hope you will join us.
The free four-day Summer Immersion Institute will be held at the YMCA in Estes Park, Colorado, June 26-29, 2012. This free institute supports teachers in their development of problem solving skills as well as the incorporation of problem solving into their school’s curriculum. More information on the Summer Immersion Institute, including an application can be found here.
