Teachers from in and around the region came together at the Centre for Mathematical Sciences in Cambridge for a day of professional development on the topic of A level pedagogy. It was a privilege to have Natalie Vernon, A level Mathematics Professional Development Coordinator for the AMSP, as the lead presenter.
Natalie shared some fascinating information on research into memory and cognitive load and its implications for teaching, particularly in terms of A level Mathematics. She also demonstrated thought-provoking approaches and resources for the teaching of trigonometry, an important and often poorly understood topic for A level mathematicians. Area Coordinators, Kristin Coldwell and Helen Harris, contributed sessions on differentiation and arithmetic sequences and series. Collaboration between delegates and intense discussion around various problems meant that there was a reluctance to leave anything unresolved even for refreshments or lunch. Ultimately, teachers found there was much to be gained from thinking deeply about their practice and discussing with others.
Participant quotes:
- “Best course I have ever been on. Thought-provoking, full of exciting content. Thank you so so much!”
- “Really useful resources to embed into lessons. Good ideas to implement and different strategies to use.”
Interested in attending in future?
This course will run again on the 10th January 2020 at the University of Essex in Colchester. Visit the event page for more information and to register.
Remember to check the events listing for other professional development opportunities, which are all free to state-funded schools, with additional subsidies available for schools in Priority Areas. If you don’t see what you are looking for, contact your Area Coordinator.