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National Council of Teachers of Mathematics 2016 Research Conference

Please note: The NCTM conference program is subject to change.

148- Expanding Horizons in K–3 Geometry and Spatial Thinking: The Implementation and Results of a New Curriculum and PD Model

Wednesday, April 13, 2016: 8:30 AM-9:45 AM
3006 (San Francisco Convention Center)

 

Lead Speaker:
Joan Moss
Co-Speaker:
Zachary Hawes


Description of Presentation:

Geometry is inherently spatial; an historical pillar of mathematics that involves perceiving, visualizing, manipulating, and reasoning about spatial relationships. And yet, geometry and spatial thinking are neglected focal points of early mathematics instruction (Clements and Sarama 2011; Davis and the Spatial Reasoning Study Group 2015). This neglect occurs despite large-scale efforts by NCTM and NRC to promote the foundational importance of geometry and spatial instruction throughout K–12 education. In this session, we report on a two-year study that engaged both teachers and their students in an experimental approach to early years geometry and spatial instruction. We share results that demonstrate the powerful effects of attending to and supporting young children’s geometrical and spatial thinking throughout the school year. Not only did the teacher-led intervention support children’s geometric and spatial thinking, but it appeared to support basic number skills as well. In addition to sharing the effects of the intervention, we also highlight our unique teacher-researcher Professional Development (PD) model, theorizing about the critical mechanisms believed to drive both teacher and student change. A recurring theme throughout the presentation will be a discussion on the reconceptualization of early geometry instruction from a spatial lens. In short, we will look to shift the current focus of early geometry from its current static approach (e.g., labeling and sorting shapes) to one that is dynamic, spatial, and imaginative.

Session Type: Invited

See more of: Invited