The Mathematical Mind: Why We Teach Math the Way We Do

The Mathematical Mind: Why We Teach Math the Way We Do

3 CPDs, Estimated to take 2 hours to complete

In this self-guided class, you will build on what you learned in your teacher education program about Maria Montessori’s concept of the mathematical mind and revisit how her approach fosters cognitive development through hands-on, sensorial materials. You will also review research and resources that support Montessori’s Mathematics curriculum and highlight the alignment of Montessori Mathematics with state standards. By the end of the class, you will be equipped to advocate for Montessori Mathematics and identify next steps to continue its implementation in your classroom. With videos, additional reading, interactive activities, and discussion this class offers several ways for you to revisit Montessori’s mathematical mind and how the Montessori Mathematics curriculum supports the development of the whole child.

The class will take approximately two hours to complete with no homework assignments. Each of the two class lessons/modules of this dynamic multimedia course includes a short introduction, content for the participant to review (including videos, podcasts, readings, resources, etc.), a game or activity related to the content, and a required discussion post. Each lesson/module is estimated to take approximately one hour to complete. You will have 180 days (approx. six months) from the date of purchase to complete the class and download the certificate that grants three hours of professional development. For the best user experience, we recommend using a desktop/laptop, but content can also be accessed on mobile devices. Certificates will only be awarded for full completion of the class.

Learner Outcomes

  • Explain Maria Montessori’s concept of the mathematical mind. 
  • Identify research that supports the use of Montessori Mathematics curriculum.
  • Advocate for Montessori Mathematics in alignment with research and state standards.

By registering for this class, you are agreeing to AMS Terms of Service.

Key:

Complete
Failed
Available
Locked
Welcome & Introduction [5 minutes]
Welcome to The Mathematical Mind: Why We Teach Math the Way We Do [2 minutes]
Open to view video.  |   Closed captions available  |  2 minutes
Open to view video.  |   Closed captions available  |  2 minutes Watch this short welcome video for a brief introduction to the this self-guided class.
You must register to access.
Introduction Discussion [3 minutes]
Make 1 discussion post to continue.
Make 1 discussion post to continue. This discussion offers an opportunity to introduce yourself, share where you are from, and what brings you to this class. Click "Participate in the Discussion" to begin. The prompt will be provided at the top of the discussion space.
You must register to access.
Lesson 1: The Mathematical Mind [1 hour]
Lesson 1: The Mathematical Mind [45 minutes]
Begin self-paced component package.
Begin self-paced component package. This lesson will offer an overview of the mathematical mind, highlight how Montessori Mathematics aligns with state standards, and provide insight into how Montessori Mathematics helps build children's brains.
You must register to access.
Lesson 1 Discussion [15 minutes]
Make 1 discussion post to continue.
Make 1 discussion post to continue. The Lesson 1 Discussion invites you to consider how you would explain Montessori Mathematics. Click "Participate in the Discussion" to begin. The prompt will be provided at the top of the discussion space.
You must register to access.
Lesson 2: Montessori Mathematics Builds Children's Brains [1 hour]
Lesson 2: Montessori Mathematics Builds Children's Brains [45 minutes]
Begin self-paced component package.
Begin self-paced component package. This lesson will review brain research related to learning and mathematics and encourage you to identify next steps for teaching Montessori Mathematics in your classroom.
You must register to access.
Lesson 2 Discussion [15 minutes]
Make 1 discussion post to continue.
Make 1 discussion post to continue. The Lesson 2 Discussion invites you to reflect on your next steps for teaching Montessori Mathematics. Click "Participate in the Discussion" to begin. The prompt will be provided at the top of the discussion space.
You must register to access.
Survey & Certificate [5 minutes]
The Mathematical Mind: Why We Do Math the Way We Do Survey [5 minutes]
5 Questions
5 Questions Completion of this survey is required before receiving a certificate of completion. Please take a moment to answer a few quick questions to help us improve our short class offerings.
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Certificate of Professional Development
3.00 CPD credits  |  Certificate available
3.00 CPD credits  |  Certificate available A certificate for 3 professional development hours will release within 30 minutes of completion of all components of the class.
You must register to access.
Resources
Additional Resources
Open to download resource.
Open to download resource. This downloadable pdf offers resources from each lesson of this self-guided class. We hope you’ll explore these resources and continue learning about the mathematical mind.
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Michael Duffy


Michael Duffy, MEd, is co-director of Montessori Elementary Teacher Training Collaborative in Lexington, MA. He has nearly 3 decades of experience as an Elementary teacher and a Montessori teacher trainer for adult learners. He has written/co-written 3 books on Montessori education, including Math Works: Montessori Math and the Developing Brain. Michael and his wife, D’Neil Duffy, were presented with the AMS Living Legacy Award in 2018. AMS-credentialed (Elementary I – II).

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