How Might We…

I recently read an article about the power of those words, “How might we…”  The article delved into the role language plays in either promoting creativity…or inhibiting it.  This was very interesting to me and there are obvious connections to how word-choice can support student learning.
 
It also prompted me to reflect upon a few questions:
1. How might we encourage independent and collaborative problem-solvers at Greenwood Elementary?
2. How might we build a culture of mathematical thinking, creativity and innovation?
3. How might we better partner with families to promote these same attributes in our students?
 
The tricky part about this reflection (and the one-person conversation I was having with myself) was that I felt compelled to find some answers!  As the pressure mounted (this was an intense one-person conversation!) I put together a few coherent thoughts…and intermixed a few coffee-induced ramblings.  Check out the short (2 minute) podcast below to learn more about how we can create a culture of mathematics and help students become “solution seekers!”  You’ll be pleased to know that our teachers are way ahead of the game, and several grade-level teams have even attended some exemplary professional development training in Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI).  Working together we will equip our students with the strategies and collaborative skills to problem-solve now and in the future!

Originally posted October 1, 2012