Fostering Productive Struggle in Mathematics, K-12

This workshop is based on the key concepts from John SanGiovanni's book, Productive Math Struggle. Participants will explore how intentional struggle in math instruction promotes student engagement, critical thinking, and resilience.

Educators will learn about SanGiovanni’s 6-point action plan for fostering perseverance in mathematics and leave with actionable techniques to promote productive struggle within their classrooms, cultivate problem-solving skills and deepen students’ conceptual understanding. Plus, participants get to leave with their own copy of the book!

Key Takeaways:

1. Understand the principles of productive struggle and its role in building students' mathematical thinking.
2. Identify instructional strategies that promote productive struggle while supporting diverse learners.
3. Design tasks and questions that encourage persistence and meaningful exploration in math.
4. Facilitate productive math discussions that help students articulate their thinking and build on each other’s ideas.
5. Analyze and respond effectively to students' struggles to provide just-in-time support without removing the challenge.

Who this is for?

This workshop is ideal for K-12 math educators, instructional coaches, and administrators looking to empower students to embrace challenges and succeed through perseverance.