• Part 1: The Heart of Mathematics: Proficiencies in Action, with Rob Vingerhoets

  • Apr 6 2025
  • Length: 26 mins
  • Podcast

Part 1: The Heart of Mathematics: Proficiencies in Action, with Rob Vingerhoets

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  • Summary

  • In this insightful podcast, Phil interviews expert maths consultant Rob Vingerhoets about the four mathematical proficiencies that form the foundation of effective mathematics education in Australia. Rob explains that these proficiencies—fluency, reasoning, understanding, and problem solving—are often misunderstood or overlooked despite being fundamental to the Australian Curriculum.Rob passionately argues that these proficiencies are "the thing" in mathematics education, not just supplementary elements. He clarifies that fluency extends beyond knowing multiplication tables to include number sense and articulating mathematical thinking. Reasoning involves justifying and explaining mathematical approaches, while understanding requires grasping concepts rather than rote memorisation. Problem solving is the application of mathematical knowledge to varied situations.Rob mentions a potential fifth proficiency some educators discuss: productive disposition, which relates to student motivation and engagement with mathematics. He emphasises that high-quality mathematical tasks should incorporate multiple proficiencies simultaneously, creating rich learning experiences that engage students.The conversation highlights how teachers can audit their lessons against these proficiencies. Rob suggests that open-ended tasks naturally accommodate different proficiency levels and allow for differentiation. He provides an example of transforming a closed question (12 + 13 = 25) into an open one (what two numbers add to 25?), demonstrating how this simple shift creates opportunities for deeper learning.Rob shares his experience in a Prep-2 classroom using the "three cookie challenge," where young children naturally engage with division and fractions through a meaningful context. This illustrates that even very young students can reason mathematically when presented with appropriate tasks, challenging the notion that certain mathematical concepts should be reserved for older students.Throughout the conversation, Rob emphasises that worksheet-based approaches and excessive PowerPoint use often fail to develop these essential proficiencies, advocating instead for rich, engaging tasks that promote authentic mathematical thinking.RESOURCESRead the blog: Proficiencies: The Main Game in Mathematics TeachingRob Vingerhoet's website: Maths is FunJOIN TEACHIFIC NOW AND SAVE!Join Teachific today. Access thousands of resources and a growing number of 'anytime' courses within your membership.FURTHER INFORMATIONTune in to "Teacher's Tool Kit For Literacy," a free podcast where accomplished literacy educator Sharon Callen and her team share valuable insights and tips. With over 30 years of experience, they provide strategic learning solutions to empower teachers and leaders worldwide. Subscribe on your favourite platform for exclusive literacy learning content. Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTubeRead our insightful blogs, which make valuable connections between resources, podcasts and courses.Visit our Cue Learning website and sign up for the Teacher's Toolkit Weekly newsletter to stay updated on resources, events and discover how Cue can support you and your school.Explore Teachific, our vast collection of PDF resources, to enhance your teaching toolkit. And get even more support from our growing number of 'anytime' online courses.Connect with the latest news and other educators by joining our Teacher's Toolkit Facebook groupExplore upcoming live or online webinar eventsHave questions or feedback? Reach out to us directly at admin@cuelearning.com.au
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