What's the point of math class?

This was the start of my desc to my talk for NCTM Seattle this past February: It's been said that engagement comes down to the four C's: critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and communication. I'd like to add one more C to this list -- it's Cognitively demanding tasks.

That's a good one!

Thank you. I tell athletes and others gone on school trips that they can use videos for when they have to be absent. Then later they'll tell me it's okay to be absent more because of videos.

Well said Howie. Notice you didn’t say cause you have to, or it’ll help you be more prepared for college level mathematics. Yes those are also good points but the 3 C’s or 4 C’s are essential for all classes. I really hope your students, and or my students see that in the end.

Your students are extremely lucky to have you 🫶🏻

Collaboration was my word!❤️

@AnneHasse

One reason for math class is to provide a playground for learning to think on purpose. This is something few people do naturally, and math is a great medium for practicing it. One reason for math class is because we can only rarely know who will need it in the future, so it is important to push this broadly. Teaching math is an investment in deep culture. If this investment has a low return, that is a good indicator of why it is important to make it.

Good points! I also like your tee. Where did you get it?