Engaging in Mathematics in the Classroom : Symbols and Experiences

What comes first, class management or student engagement? How can the ‘real world’ be used to engage learners? What is the role of technology in engaging students? And is ‘understanding’ or ‘exam success’ more engaging?

In the modern world, success in school mathematics can determine life chances. It is therefore vital to engage children and young people in learning mathematics. Engaging in Mathematics in the Classroom brings together the debates concerning mathematical engagement and draws on first-hand experience and key research to promote successful classroom practice. It considers what engagement looks like at different ages and the implications of this for the classroom.

Accessibly written with examples of successful classroom practice, activities and projects, the book covers:

• Planning and managing engagement in learning;
• Mathematical understandings and meanings;
• Early Primary and the number system;
• Primary/Secondary Transition and geometrical thinking;
• Secondary school: Adolescence and algebraic activity;
• Post-16 and infinity;
• Learning across the lifespan.

Written by a leading authority in the field, this timely text will be essential reading for all trainee and practising teachers of mathematics.

Alf Coles is Senior Lecturer in Education at the University of Bristol, UK.