Aims

• Experience interesting and stimulating ways of embedding higher level problem-solving skills in the classroom
• Consider how student aspirations can be raised through the use of challenging questions in safe situations
• Network and share ideas with fellow teachers

Who will benefit from attending?

This conference is suitable for any teacher who is currently teaching AS/A level Mathematics or Further Mathematics or who expects to do so in the near future. The content included on the day is relevant to supporting the overarching problem-solving theme in the AS/A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics qualifications.

Content

As well as two plenary sessions, each conference includes three workshop sessions, with some choice of workshops.

Eligibility

This course is aimed at teachers from state-funded schools, colleges and academies. Teachers from independent schools are welcome to apply for a place. In this case a place will only be granted if there is availability.

Cost

The A level Problem Solving Teacher Conference is free to state-funded schools and colleges.

Schools and colleges located within Targeted Support for Level 3 Maths Areas are eligible to receive a subsidy of £200 to support staff cover and travel costs.

Study schedule

Opening Plenary

Opening Doors – raising aspirations for all mathematics students
This session will demonstrate the value of using University Admissions Test questions in the classroom environment to develop problem-solving skills and to raise awareness of the accessibility and benefits of UATs and to raise student aspirations.

Workshop 1 choices:

1A: Integrating Problem Solving
This session will consider ways of embedding problem-solving into teaching so that there is time to cover both content and skills.

1B: Developing Problem Solving through Group Work
Do many hands make light work, or do too many cooks spoil the broth? This session explores how careful use of pair and group activities can enable students to develop their problem solving skills.

Workshop 2 choices:

2A: Exploring University Admissions Tests: TMUA for everyone
This session explores the use of TMUA (and some MAT) questions with all students in a classroom context to develop their understanding and problem-solving skills.

2B: Exploring University Admissions Tests: Supporting Exceptional Students
This session will look at how you might support students applying to highly selective universities which require or encourage the MAT or STEP.

Workshop 3 :

Teaching Modelling
"I'm fine once I know what to do, I just don't know how to start!" There are many features common to problem solving and modelling. This session will explore how supporting students through the modelling process can also make them more confident problem solvers.</

Key facts

• Reference:#10882
• Audience:Teachers
• Curriculum focus:A level Further Mathematics, University admissions tests
• Mathematical focus:Problem solving, Reasoning
• Format:Face-to-face
• Duration:1 day(s)
• Region:National
• Start date:07 Jul 2023
• Fee:Free
• TSMA subsidy:£200