Fostering Geometric Thinking: A Guide for Teachers, Grades 5-10

The Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study has shown that American schools have consistently helped students understand algebraic and statistical concepts, leading to high achievement internationally. Now it’s time to do the same for geometry. Mark Driscoll, author of the powerful and popular Fostering Algebraic Thinking, takes up the challenge and leads you to new, research-based ways to improve how your students conceptualize and apply geometric ideas.

With Fostering Geometric Thinking any math teacher can discover essential, practical ideas for helping students cultivate geometric habits of mind that lead to success in this crucial mathematical subject. The book focuses on rigorous, problem-based teaching that encourages students to deepen their thinking in three key geometric strands:

• geometric properties
• geometric transformations
• measurement of geometric objects.

• engaging problems to use in your classroom
• examples of student solutions to these problems
• transcripts of classroom interactions
• online resources featuring in-the-field footage of students working through open-ended problems highlighted in the book.

Mark Driscoll is a nationally recognized leader in mathematics education who designs instructional resources and professional development materials that build mathematics teachers' capacity to enhance students' understanding and improve their learning outcomes. He is the author of Mathematical Thinking and Communication (2016), Fostering Geometric Thinking (2007), Fostering Algebraic Thinking (1999), as well as The Fostering Geometric Thinking Toolkit (2008)—all published by Heinemann.

Mark is the Managing Project Director of Leadership for Learning Innovation at Educational Development Center (EDC) in Waltham, MA. He received his Ph.D. in mathematics (differential geometry) from Washington University in St. Louis and taught mathematics at Logos School, an alternative high school in inner-city St. Louis. He has been a member of the writing team for NCTM’s Assessment Standards for School Mathematics and served as Editor of Mathematics Education Leadership, the journal of the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics, from 2003–2007.

Mark has been named the recipient of the Ross Taylor/Glenn Gilbert National Leadership Award from the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics (NCSM). The award recognizes Mark’s contributions to mathematics education over four decades as well as his work at EDC.