Developing Visual Literacy and Geometrical Thinking

In this hands-on workshop, Karen will share ideas that help to develop geometrical concepts where constructivism is key and where the learning is child-centred. The workshops will present ready-to-use classroom activities for K-2 and 3-6 that assist students to become more spatially aware and to think, act and work geometrically. The presentation will highlight the importance of geometrical thinking in NAPLAN, where approximately a third of the questions from each year have a focus on geometry and visual literacy. This workshop will provide you with plenty of ideas to enable you to take a more investigative approach to teaching (and learning!) geometry.

Session 1 (K - 2): 9am to 12 noon

Session 2 (Years 3 - 6): 1pm to 4pm

Cost per session: $35 (MAT member) or $50 (non-member)

To register, go to: http://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/developing-visual-literacy-and-geometrical-thinking-k-6-with-karen-mcdaid-tickets-36997743246 

Karen McDaid

Karen McDaid is a lecturer in mathematics education and an academic at Western Sydney University, where she teaches mathematical pedagogy and mathematical content to Primary Pre-service Teachers in the Master of Teaching. She is a passionate advocate for both primary and secondary mathematics education and is often called upon to present workshops in schools and at conferences. Karen’s academic roles also include Numeracy Advisor for all the Primary Pre-service teachers where she provides numeracy advice, emotional support and practical learning activities that support Pre-service teachers. Outside of her work, Karen has been on the executive committee of the Mathematics Association of NSW (MANSW) and the Primary association for Mathematics since 2002 and is the current NSW representative on the Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers Council (AAMT). Karen's research focuses on Primary Pre-service Teachers' attitudes and self-efficacy in mathematics and factors that influence positive attitudes and improved teaching outcomes. She has been the recipient of University Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning for her creation of innovative teaching and learning experiences that encourage positive attitudes in mathematics contributing to and developing critical, divergent thinking skills.

Karen is an engaging and motivating presenter, who always leaves participants feeling enthused and eager to get back in the classroom and embed what they have learnt into their classroom practice.

Event Organiser: Lauren Beams (lauren.beams@education.tas.gov.au), MAT Committee Member