The Essential Guide to Secondary Mathematics

Combining research-based theory with fresh, practical guidance for the classroom, The Essential Guide to Secondary Mathematics is a stimulating new resource for all student and practising teachers looking for new ideas and inspiration. With an emphasis on exciting your mathematical and pedagogical passions, it focuses on the dynamics of the classroom and the process of designing and using rich mathematical tasks.

Written by a highly experienced mathematics teacher who understands the realities of the secondary classroom, this book combines insights from the latest research into mathematical learning with useful strategies and ideas for engaging teaching. The text is punctuated by frequent tasks, some mathematical and others more reflective, which are designed to encourage independent thinking. Key topics covered include:

• Preparing yourself: thinking about mathematics and pedagogy, taking care of your health and dealing with stress
• Different styles of learning and teaching mathematics
• Ideas for lessons: what does it take to turn an idea into a lesson?
• Tasks, timings and resources
• Equality and dealing positively with difference
• Mathematical starters, fillers and finishers: achieving variety
• The mathematical classroom community: seating layouts, displays and practical considerations
• Assessment: effective strategies for responding to learners‘ mathematics and writing reports.

The Essential Guide to Secondary Mathematics will be a valuable resource both for beginning teachers interested in developing their understanding, and for experienced teachers looking to re-evaluate their practice. Aiming to develop all aspects of your mathematics teaching, this book will help you to devise, adapt and implement ideas for successful and enjoyable teaching and learning.

Colin Foster teaches secondary mathematics at King Henry VIII School, Coventry, UK, and is the author of a wide range of books and articles about teaching mathematics. He is a former co-editor of the journal Mathematics Teaching, a chartered mathematics teacher and a member of the Association of Teachers of Mathematics and the Mathematical Association.