Teachers' Thoughts about TEAM-Math

On the frequently asked questions page we have answered questions about who is involved in TEAM-Math, the vision of TEAM-Math, and the goal of TEAM-Math, but how do teachers involved in the program view TEAM-Math? During the summer of 2004 teachers involved in TEAM-Math were asked to explain what TEAM-Math means. This is what those charged with taking the priciples of TEAM-Math into the classroom view as the primary components of TEAM-Math's message:

• Our message is to raise test scores and bridge the achievement gaps in East Alabama by changing ineffective teaching practices by promoting inquiry-based instruction thus empowering students mathematically.
• The student must be an active participant in developing the mathematics they are learning. Our job is to lead them through that development.
• We must transform thoughts about Math; the way it’s learned and taught. Also reinforcing the idea that all students can learn and perform when given an opportunity to acquire, interrogate, and produce knowledge.
• It’s not just what you teach, but how you teach it based on research. Equipping teachers to equip students to understand math and become life long learners. Teaching students to teach themselves and teaching students to learn.
• We must improve mathematic learning and teaching by doing, thinking, reflecting, and aligning the grade levels, NCTM standards, Alabama course of study, and testing including all students.
• TEAM-Math requires:
• Staying on task with what you say
• A coordinated effort to bring best practices of math teaching to our students
• Focus
• Asking why, not just what
• Asking questions and questioning answers
• Teacher as facilitator, not giver of knowledge
• Curriculum based on solid experience, research, and knowledge (not a trend)

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Last updated Thursday, December 2, 2004 7:18 PM
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