Welcome to the Building Thinking Classrooms Book Study! This collaborative exploration delves into the research-based methods outlined in Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics by Peter Liljedahl. This book study aims to transform traditional classroom practices and foster an environment to help students cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and active engagement to go beyond rote memorization and repetitive calculations. 

Participation in this book study is free. You are required to purchase the book on your own.

Amazon Link

Barnes and Noble Link

Study Goals:

1. Understand Key Concepts: We’ll dissect the core principles of Liljedahl’s approach, including the use of open-ended tasks, dynamic group work, and student-driven problem-solving.
2. Implement Strategies: Learn practical strategies to apply these principles in your own classroom, enhancing student engagement and mathematical thinking.
3. Collaborate and Reflect: Engage in discussions with fellow educators to share insights, experiences, and challenges, refining your practice through collective wisdom.

Format:

• Seven Virtual Discussions: Explore each chapter’s themes through guided questions and real-life scenarios.
• Personal Reflection: Reflect on your practice and how to adapt the strategies to fit your unique teaching context.
• Coaching Support: Customizable, flexible support from COMPASS math team is offered in lesson planning, finding tasks, using your curriculum, or other coaching needs.

Participants Will Gain:

• A deep understanding of how to create a classroom environment that promotes critical thinking.
• Practical tools and techniques for enhancing student engagement and problem-solving skills.
• A supportive network of educators to collaborate with and learn from.
• CEUs

Book Study Discussion Dates:

The book study will meet from 3:30-4:30 on the following dates to discuss specific chapters:

• December 11 - Introduction
• January 8 - Chapters 1-3
• January 29 - Chapters 4-5
• February 26 - Chapters 6-8
• March 19 - Chapter 9-11
• April 9 - Chapters 12-14
• May 7 - Chapter 15 and wrap up

Join us in this transformative journey to build a thinking classroom where every student thrives in their mathematical learning!