News and Events

  • Connecting Arithmetic to Algebra by Susan Jo Russell, Deborah Schifter, and Virgina Bastable.

    "How can we better prepare elementary students for algebra? More importantly, how can we help all children, not just those who excel in math, become ready for later instruction? The answer lies not in additional content, but in developing a way of thinking about the mathematics that underlies both arithmetic and algebra."

    Published by Heinemann, "Connecting Arithmetic to Algebra invites readers to learn about a crucial component of algebraic thinking: investigating the behavior of the operations.

    Nationally-known math educators Susan Jo Russell, Deborah Schifter, and Virginia Bastable and a group of collaborating teachers describe how elementary teachers can shape their instruction so that students learn to:


    notice and describe consistencies across problems

    articulate generalizations about the behavior of the operations

    develop mathematical arguments based on representations to explain why such generalizations are or are not true.

    
Through such work, students become familiar with properties and general rules that underlie computational strategies—including those that form the basis of strategies used in algebra—strengthening their understanding of grade-level content and at the same time preparing them for future studies.
 Each chapter is illustrated by lively episodes drawn from the classrooms of collaborating teachers in a wide range of settings. These provide examples of posing problems, engaging students in productive discussion, using representations to develop mathematical arguments, and supporting both students with a wide range of learning profiles."

    Download a brochure.

  • NCTM Research Presession
    April 23-25, 2012, in Philadelphia, PA

    Wednesday, April 25, 2012, 3:00–4:30
    K-5 Generalization and Proof: What knowledge/skills do teachers need?
    Deborah Schifter, Virginia Bastable, and Susan Jo Russell
    Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, Franklin Hall 12

  • NCSM
    April 23-25, 2012, in Philadelphia, PA

    Implementing the Common Core as Constellations of Content and Practice Standards
    Deborah Schifter, Virginia Bastable, and Susan Jo Russell

    Monday, April 23, 2012, 10:45-11:45
    What Elementary Teachers Need to Know to Teach about "Properties of Operations" in Light of the Common Core Standards
    Susan Jo Russell, Deborah Schifter, and Virginia Bastable

    Tuesday, April 24, 2012, 2:45-3:45
    What Do the Practices Look Like in K-5 Classrooms?
    Arusha Hollister

    Wednesday, April 25, 2012 10:45-12:15
    Using Video to Think About What the CCSS for Mathematical Practice Look Like in K–2 Classrooms
    Megan Murray and Karen Economopoulos

    Wednesday, April 25, 2012, 4:00-5:00
    Examining the CCSS Mathematical Practices in Grades 3-5
    Keith Cochran