When dealing with students' diverse learning needs, classroom teachers and those responsible for developing and implementing school mathematics programs often search for an effective way to link mathematics learning, instruction, and assessment. First Steps® in Mathematics is a school-wide Professional Development Model specifically designed to provide this critical link. This K-8 professional learning resource is the product of an extensive review of all available international research and thousands of student work samples. The developers validated their findings, which have been subsequently replicated in Canadian schools. First Steps® in Mathematics enables teachers to assess students' thinking, monitor their progress, and provide developmentally appropriate teaching strategies and learning activities.
The Canadian edition of First Steps® in Mathematics was published in December 2005. Courses have been underway coast to coast.
First Steps® in Mathematics can be implemented in K-8 schools in a number of ways to meet the specific needs of a school or district. First Steps® in Mathematics professional development courses can be conducted at the invitation of the participating school or district.
First Steps® in Mathematics is organized into the following courses:
First Steps® in Mathematics Course Options:
Facilitator Courses
Number Sense: 7 days, $3750 per person
Measurement: 4 days, $2195 per person
This course deepens capacity of district leaders and equips participants to support the implementation of First Steps in Mathematics across a school or district. It develops district leadership and expertise that can be accessed along the timelines and needs of a district.
Facilitators are introduced to the First Steps® in Mathematics resource and its research on students' mathematical thinking. They learn how to use the diagnostic maps, diagnostic tasks, key understandings, and sample learning activities for assessment, instruction, and planning in mathematics, and they gain new insights into leadership, implementation, and facilitator strategies.
Coach Courses
Number Sense: 4 days, $1395 per person
Measurement: 2 days, $695 per person
This new course option delves deeply into the content of First Steps® in Mathematics and builds capacity in coaches and leaders as they support teachers in effective mathematics instruction.
By working with provocative tasks and analyzing actual student work, participants uncover the key understandings all students need to know. In addition, coaches will become familiar with school-based settings that can focus and shape professional conversations and provide opportunities for deeper, problem-based collaboration.
Administrator Courses
$3500 flat fee
This half-day or full-day session is specifically designed to highlight what Administrators need to know and do to ensure the successful implementation of First Steps® in Mathematics in their school. It outlines the foundational beliefs of the resource, and provides a brief overview of how the components work together. In addition, it outlines research findings on effective professional learning and suggests powerful school structures that catalyze productive teacher collaboration. It is these structures that help establish a reflective school culture with a deep focus on student learning, one that analyzes and addresses student needs with increasing precision.
For more information on Professional Courses or Resources go to www.pearsonschoolcanada.ca
