What does it really mean for students to be fluent in operations with rational numbers and algebraic equations?
Fluency is more than speed, recall, or memorization of procedures. True mathematical fluency involves selecting strategies that are flexible, efficient, accurate, and appropriate for a given situation. It empowers students to reason about mathematical relationships, make sense of algebraic concepts, and solve problems with confidence.
In this engaging and interactive workshop, participants will explore research-based approaches to developing fluency with operations involving rational numbers and algebraic equations through the lens of Figuring Out Fluency: Operations with Rational Numbers and Algebraic Equations by Jennifer Bay-Williams, John SanGiovanni, C. David Walters, and Sherri Martinie. Educators will examine the significant strategies that support procedural fluency, explore how these strategies extend to proportional reasoning, solving equations for unknowns, and solving systems of linear equations, and experience classroom-ready routines, games, and activities that promote meaningful practice.
Through hands-on learning, collaborative discussions, and analysis of student thinking, participants will discover how to create equitable opportunities for all learners to develop fluency through reasoning, strategy use, and sense-making. Teachers will leave with practical instructional tools and resources that support students in becoming skilled and confident mathematical thinkers and problem solvers.
Plus, you will receive a copy of the book!
Learning Objectives
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Define procedural fluency as the integration of flexibility, efficiency, accuracy, and appropriate strategy selection.
- Explore significant strategies for operating with rational numbers and solving algebraic equations, including connections to proportional reasoning and systems of linear equations.
- Analyze student thinking and implement instructional routines, games, and activities that develop fluency through reasoning and sense-making rather than memorization.