Actually learned about the disconnect in math. If you want to learn about motivation and how to move forward in math. If you want to actually enjoy doing math and be motivated to do it get this speaker in! So so so impressed and feel more prepared as a teacher to go forward. Have a growth mindset and make mistakes.
Puzzles and Games to Develop Mathematical Proficiency
Math doesn't have to be boring.
99%
found sessions valuable
96%
would attend again
93%
found session inspiring
15+
years of experience
Develop mathematical skills through play.
As Einstein says, “Play is the highest form of research.” Why? Because play gives opportunity to test ideas and develop new skills in a non-judgemental way.
- Play helps develop problem solving skills and increases engagement.
- Students can see relevant applications to content.
- Reduces math anxiety and other socio-emotional blocks to learning math.
Bring joy and meaning to your classroom by incorporating puzzles and games that enhance mathematical skills.
Dr. Geillan Aly
is a mathematics educator and former award winning Assistant Professor who received her PhD in Teaching and Teacher Education and a Master’s in Mathematics from the University of Arizona.
Her research focuses on the emotional side of learning mathematics and includes how computer-centered learning has affected students’ abilities to control their learning environment and how meditation may reduce mathematics anxiety.
Dr. Aly has been teaching at the university level for over ten years and, without sacrificing rigor, brings a personalized math learning experience to the classroom through active learning methods and by centering students’ emotional well-being. She is very familiar with the Common Core Standards and has experience teaching mathematics to Middle and High School students.
Underlying all of Dr. Aly’s teaching and research is a dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion and social justice in mathematics education. She enjoys traveling, seeing live music, and is an avid chef. Geillan is also a wife and mother of a beautiful boy. They live near Hartford, CT.
What you'll learn
- How math trauma can be reduced through play and other joyful activities.
- Age appropriate games that develop mathematical skills.
- How to use games to teach kids to take risks and solve problems.
- How games can help students develop social skills.
Location & Logistics
Everything you need to know about how the program runs.
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Format
This is an in-person workshop since materials are brought and distributed for teachers' use.
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Length
The program can run between 1-2 hours based on your need and program time (a longer program provides more time for collaboration and discussion).
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Required materials
All materials will be provided by Compassionate Math.
What people are saying
I would explain that this session is very valuable to connecting with others who have had ‘bad’ math experiences which makes you feel more supported in similar experiences as well as giving good tips for future math classes
I thought it was going to be another thing where we were told to be vulnerable but actually doing so would be a terrible mistake; however, instead everyone was completely supportive! I couldn’t believe it.
A great introduction to thinking about classroom norms and putting our beliefs into practice.
We discussed belonging in much broader sense than I expected, and it was wonderful and deeply thought provoking and emotionally hard but excellent.
Thank you! I liked that we shared ideas. Plus Geillan gave great specific ideas.
One of the more enjoyable workshops I’ve attended in years.
It was so informative session and i was surprised how Geillan kept my attention for whole 2 hrs!! And i’m so happy that someone pronounced my name correctly 😁✨
I definitely got something I can take away to improve my online instruction.
You are my hero.
I really enjoyed this session by Geillan Aly. It was very informative and engaging, and it gave me a fresh perspective on how I approach teaching. The session was eye-opening because it introduced me to new techniques and strategies that I can use to make my classes more interactive and student-centered. I left feeling inspired and motivated to try these ideas with my students to improve their learning experience and help them stay actively involved.
Good introduction to why creating a compassionate classroom is valuable and effective as a teaching practice.
Real, relevant, and useful!
This is very eye opening for me. And helped me feel positive about moving forward. I feel confident to go back to my math work, and less scared of math when I encounter it in my biology work.
Engaging and interactive activities that were insightful and able to be understood by all through explanation and support.
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