Beyond ELL: Addressing Language-Based Problems in Mathematics Instruction

This professional learning opportunity will focus on inadvertent and often undetected problems in mathematics instruction caused by inattention to the role of language, representation, and symbolism. These practices affect all students, particularly English language learners. Participants will link deep conceptual understanding of key mathematics concepts with the associated language and symbolism that often create barriers to student learning. Come prepared to experience “aha!” moments in this highly interactive session.

Who Should Attend:
Middle school math teachers and ELL supervisors

Objectives:
You will increase your knowledge of

• how mathematics language and symbolism impact both teachers’ and students’ understanding of critical mathematical concepts;
• the relationships among mathematical language and symbolism, conceptual understanding, and critical thought processes such as algebraic and proportional reasoning; and
• approaches and strategies to address the impact of mathematics language and symbolism, conceptual understanding, and critical thought in learning mathematics concepts.

Presenter:
Concepcion “Como” Molina has been working to improve student learning in mathematics for more than 20 years. Dr. Molina collaborates with other SEDL staff members to provide professional development for hundreds of educators. Prior to joining SEDL in July 1998, Dr. Molina was a high school mathematics teacher for 14 years. He has prior experience in higher education through his duties as a college representative and minority recruiter with Texas A&M University-College Station. Dr. Molina earned an EdD in educational administration from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

Location:
CPL sessions are held at SEDL's headquarters in Austin, TX. Contact SEDL if you would like to schedule a customized session at your location.