CONTINUED LEARNING FOR SCHOOL-WIDE GROWTH
The world today requires learners to be innovative , creative and collaborative problem-solvers , particularly in the area of mathematics . This understanding forms the basis of our mathematics curriculum here at LCIS and ongoing teacher professional development .
In August 2017 , LCIS hosted a Math workshop for all teachers in the Early Learning Centre and Elementary School . Thanks to our community ’ s generous support of the Annual Fund , we were able to bring IB lead trainer , Sean Walker , from the International School of Paris ( ISP ) to conduct a two-day training . He supported our teachers in a deeper implementation of the transdisciplinary , inquiry-based approach to mathematics encouraged by the IB .
Some of the key sessions included : utilising math provocations , planning assessments that support further teaching and learning , and balancing the teaching of math skills and concepts . At the end of the training , our teachers walked away with many practical strategies for implementation and classes are already taking on a new look across the grade levels .
‘ Math has transitioned from the “ sit down chalk talk ” mode to a method that helps students understand that math is a part of our everyday life . Using the inquiry cycle-getting students to look closely and tell what they see , investigating , wondering why it is that way or sharing what they think-builds students ’ deeper understanding of the enduring concepts .’ Kym Scavella , Junior Pre-K Teacher
‘ This summer , I attended a workshop called “ Bringing Inquiry to the Classroom .” It taught me how to guide open-ended investigations . Since then , I have developed passion projects with Grade 7 where they can study whatever they want as long as it is related to science . It allows these students to explore a topic of interest deeply and then share that understanding and passion with others . I like to call them Ted Talks for Middle School .’ Denise Mizell , MYP Science Teacher
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