Practical and proven math tasks to maximize student thinking and learning
Building upon the blockbuster success of Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics, Peter Liljedahl has joined forces with co-author Kyle Webb to bring the Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC) framework to life in this new book, Mathematics Tasks for the Thinking Classroom, Grades 6-12.
But this book is so much more than simply a collection of good thinking tasks. It delves deeper into the implementation of the 14 practices from the BTC framework by updating the practices with the newest research, and focusing on the practice through the lens of rich math tasks that address specific mathematical learning outcomes or standards. Across the 20 non-curricular tasks and 30 curricular tasks used as models, this book:
Helps you choose tasks to fit your particular math standards, goals, and the competencies you want your students to build
Walks you through all the steps and scripts to launch, facilitate, and consolidate each task
Shares examples of possible student solutions along with hints you might offer to help their thinking along
Offers tasks for consolidation, example notes to my future forgetful self, and mild, medium, and spicy check-your-understanding questions (CYUs) for every thin sliced sequences of curricular tasks
Imparts reflections from the authors on each task
The book closes with specific guidance on how to find more tasks or craft your own non-curricular and curricular tasks, along with answers to educators’ frequently asked questions. It includes access to a companion website that includes downloadables and a task template for creating your own tasks.
Whether you are new to BTC or a seasoned user, Mathematics Tasks for the Thinking Classroom, Grades 6-12 will help teachers, coaches, and specialists transform traditional math classrooms into dynamic and thought-provoking learning spaces. Mathematics Tasks for the Thinking Classroom, Grades K-5 is also available to create district-wide thinking classrooms!
Introduction
Part 1: In Review and In the New
Chapter 1: What Kinds of Tasks to Use
Chapter 2: How, When, and Where to Give Tasks
Chapter 3: How to Build and Utilize Student Autonomy
Chapter 4: How to Use Hints and Extensions to Maintain Flow
Chapter 5: How to Consolidate the Task(s)
Chapter 6: How to Have Students Make Meaningful Notes
Chapter 7: How to Have Students do Check-Your-Understanding Questions
Chapter 8: How to Use Tasks as the Context to Improve Student Competencies
Chapter 9: What Does a Lesson Look Like in a Thinking Classroom?
