Succeeding at Teaching Mathematics, K-6

Julie Sliva Spitzer brings a rich background in mathematics, technology, and special education. As an associate professor of mathematics education at San Jose State University, she teaches methods of mathematics instruction to aspiring educators and supervises their field experiences. Julie continues to enjoy inservice work with teachers Grades K-12. Julie's research interests include studying teacher and student attitudes toward teaching and learning mathematics, and best practices for teaching mathematics to learners with special needs. She is a frequent presenter at the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Annual Meetings, the California Mathematics Annual Conference, and the International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education, North American Chapter. Cheryl D. Roddick is an associate professor in the Department of Mathematics at San Jose State University. She currently teaches mathematics and mathematics methods courses to students in K-12 education. She also supervises field experiences for student teachers at the secondary level. Roddick's research interests include the conceptual understanding of fractions and teacher change relative to teaching mathematics. She has presented her research in local as well as national mathematics education conferences. She also facilitates K-12 inservice activities with teachers in local school districts.

Acknowledgments About the Authors Introduction 1. A Glimpse at Mathematics Instruction Two Illustrations Success in Teaching Mathematics Summary 2. Standards-Based Teaching Why Do We Need Standards for Teaching Mathematics? The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Principles and Standards State and District Standards for Teaching Mathematics The Relationship Between Standards and Standards-Based Mathematics Textbooks NCTM Curriculum Focal Points Examples of Standards-Based Activities Involving Algebraic Thinking Summary 3. Engaging Students in Learning Mathematics What Is Engagement? Engaging Learners in the Affective Domain Affective Issues Related to Teaching and Learning Mathematics Students Engaged in Learning Probability Summary 4. Engagement Strategies for Special Populations The Special Needs Learner The Gifted Learner The English Language Learner Example of Engaging Learners in a Mathematics Classroom Summary 5. Assessment Developing Assessments: The Use of Backward Design Types of Assessment Rubrics Grading and Assessment Schemes Practical Ways of Assessing Throughout the Instructional Process Tailoring Assessments for Special Populations Data-Driven Instructional Practices A Word About Standardized Tests Summary 6. Putting It All Together The Year at a Glance: Designing Your Curriculum Making Connections Within Mathematics Making Connections Across the Curriculum Mathematical Connections Across Grades Succeeding at Teaching Mathematics?and Loving It! Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C References Index

"I wish I'd had this book when I began teaching years ago." -- Beth Peters, Mathematics Education Consultant "An excellent, concise book for novice mathematics teachers, with good ideas for experienced teachers as well." -- Colleen Martin, Fifth-Grade Teacher "Helps new educators handle classroom math challenges through examples of effective teaching methods for math." -- The Bookwatch, June 2008