Introduction to Mathematics Part time PGCE Introduction to Mathematics

Frogs and toads Activity: To swap over the frogs and toads Rules: You may either: - slide one square into an empty space hop one frog/toad over one other frog/toad into an empty space Aim: To find the rule for determine the minimum number of moves for any numbers of frogs and toads. Possible steps: What is the minimum for 2 frogs and 2 toads? How many slides & hops? How about 3 of each/ 4 of each etc? How about 2 frogs and 3 toads? What patterns are there?

For discussion Have you solved the problem? Have you finished the investigation or is there something else you could do? What helped/hindered you in solving the problem?

A Model for the Primary Mathematics Curriculum Facts Skills Concepts Processes Situations Attitudes Shuard,H. (1986) Primary mathematics today and tomorrow York:SCDC

David Burghes Mathematics Enhancement Project 1997 In his survey, Year 7 / 8 pupils were asked: ‘What do you think are the good qualities of the best maths teacher you ever had? They gave answers such as: Patience Sense of humour Give individual help Does not move on too quickly Checks and helps understanding Approachable and caring Makes mathematics enjoyable and fun Strict and good control of the class Doesn’t get cross if pupils do not understand Listen …..but, by far the most frequent response was gives clear explanations

Independent Study Tasks Jennings, S.F. (2006) ‘Personal development plans and self-directed learning for healthcare professionals: are they evidence based?’ Postgraduate Medical Journal. 83 pp. 518-524. Available at http://pmj.bmj.com (Accessed: July 7th , 2010) Wilcox, S.W. (1996) ‘Fostering self-directed learning in the university setting.’ Studies in Higher Education. 21(2) pp173-176   What are the key messages about independent study? Task 2 Read extracts from:  Williams, P. (2008) Review of Mathematics Teaching in Early Years Settings and Primary Schools What are the key messages about attitudes towards mathematics?