Staff Development

Geometry has been used from ancient to current times. It is one of the broadest areas of mathematics, and it involves more than proofs and theorems.

Children who develop a strong sense of spatial relationships and who master the concepts and language of geometry are better prepared to learn number and measurement ideas, as well as other advanced mathematical topics. (NCTM Curriculum and Evaluation Standards, pg. 48)

All programs in the Shapes in Space series: Geometry for Primary (1-2); Geometry in My World (3-4); Turn On to Geometry (5-6); and Geometry Concepts for Middle Schools (6-8) will focus on the NCTM mathematics strand of Geometry. The goal of TEAMS programming is to give students experiences that are aligned with their level of mathematical development. The topic of geometry is developed from the early grades into the middle grades. Throughout the levels, mathematical language is developed. Discourse between students is promoted, skills in analyzing and classifying are expanded.

The study of geometry helps students

represent and make sense of the world.

(NCTM Curriculum and Evaluation Standards, pg.112)

Program Overview

The two staff development programs are designed to help teachers facilitate programs from Shapes in Space during the upcoming school year. Shapes in Space emphasizes the importance of geometry and spatial awareness in the mathematics curriculum, from 1st through 8th grade.

The staff development programs address teaching strategies that improve accessiblity and develop a rich understanding of geometry for all students. These teaching strategies reinforce the TEAMS philosophy that "Math power can be attained by ALL students".

Teachers will:

• complete a learning styles analysis
• become aware of effective strategies to teach geometry at all grade levels
• view software and web sites that supplement lessons in geometry
• find out how to work with manipulatives
• experience a cooperative activity
• become aware of publications from the NCTM
• understand the importance of writing in the mathematics classroom.

Materials

Handout Materials

• Modality Strengths: SD #1(duplicate one per person)
• Sorting and Classifying: SD #2 (duplicate one per group of four)
• Teaching Geometry Concepts: Shapes in Space program guide
• Cooperative Learning Activity: SD #3

Manipulatives

• Geoblocks or Polydrons
• Color Tiles or Connecting Cubes
• Geoboards
• Pentominoes

Staff Development #1 and #2: Telecast Activities
Teaching geometry

• Sorting and classifying
• Developing concepts
• Teaching strategies
  - Cooperative learning
  - Questioning techniques
  - Integrating technologies
• Teaching diverse populations
• Assessment

How to Communicate with TEAMS

Contact Jeannie Toshima at:
Phone: (562) 922-6185
FAX: (562) 922-6486
Email: toshima_jeannie@lacoe.edu

Send materials via Blue Bag if your school is located in Los Angeles County (No postage necessary)
LACOE
EC-Room 250
TEAMS Math

Send materials via US mail if your school is located outside of Los Angeles County:
TEAMS Math Studio Teacher
Los Angeles County Office of Education
9300 Imperial Highway, Room 250
Downey, CA 90242-2890

Phone or FAX the studio:
Studio phone: 1 800 TEAMS LA (only when program is live)
Studio FAX: 1 800 TEAMS FX (send in student work 24 hours a day)