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Presentations and Workshops

Handouts and links for some of my talks.

I can present any of them to your school or district.
(Math Education Consulting)

See my résumé for a full list of workshops and presentations.

Fractions:
well-chosen rectangle, pies, and a challenge

Level: Grades 3-5

Description:
I will present how to use well-chosen rectangles to compare, add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions. Also: how to use pie slices to see equivalence and make connections with angles, time, money, decimals, and percent. These representations are intended to complement, not replace approaches you already use. We'll end with a high-ceiling Egyptian fractions challenge.

big P iconOn this site:
Fractions

Geometric Puzzles: Tiles, Rep-Tiles

Level: Math Teachers' Circle

Description:
We'll explore puzzles which are appealing to both children and adults: tangrams, pentominoes, supertangrams, and rep-tiles. All of them involve the use of specific tiles to cover various figures. In most cases, we'll use hands-on materials. Although most of the puzzles we'll tackle can be solved, we'll prove some are impossible. Solvable puzzles will range in difficulty from easy to, ahem, funstrating.

These geometric puzzles touch on symmetry, congruence, similarity, convexity, the Pythagorean theorem, and tiling. They can be used in the classroom, K-12. I may reference those uses, but we will not dwell on them: our main focus will be on solving the puzzles and thinking about them.

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Links
Slides
Geometric Puzzles

Geometric Puzzles for All Ages

Online workshop

Level: Leaders of Math Circles and Math Teachers' Circles

Description:
Tangram and pentomino puzzles which are fun and interesting for all ages. The activities will touch on angles, convexity, area, congruence, and similarity. Some impossibility proofs.

big P iconOn this site:
Links
Geometric Puzzles
On YouTube:
Recording

Tiling

Springboard for Geometry

Level: General Interest

Description:
A hands-on workshop.
Tiling the plane (tessellation) enhances the introduction of geometry in middle and high school. It provides opportunities for students to do creative work they take pride in. It connects with art (e.g. Escher) and culture (e.g. Islamic design). And it provides a rich context for basic geometry (sum of the angles in a polygon, exterior angle theorem, parallels and transversals, regular polygons) and transformational geometry (rigid motions and basic theorems about them).

big P iconOn this site:
Links
Tilings to Analyze

Symmetry

A unifying thread across grades and cultures

Online workshop

Level: General Interest

Description:
Symmetric designs are found in virtually every culture, and are interesting to students across the grades. We will explore line and rotational symmetry with activities on free online platforms. We will discuss rosette symmetry (finite figures), frieze symmetry (infinite designs that extend in one dimension), and wallpaper symmetry (two-dimensional designs and tessellations). We will analyze examples from all over the world. Bonus: links to online symmetry projects, as well as hands-on activities using mirrors, pattern blocks, tangrams, pentominoes, templates, and special papers for when you're back in the classroom.

big P iconOn this site:
"Handout" with links
Symmetry

Virtual Manipulatives

Online workshop

Level: Grades 7-10

Description:
I present five free virtual manipulatives I created on a foundation of Google Drawings, Google Slides, and GeoGebra: 11x11 Geoboard, Algebra Lab Gear, Tiling, Grid Paper, and Pentominoes. For each one, I share a problem-rich, low-threshold / high-ceiling lesson — suitable for middle school or high school. (The topics are appropriate for students in pre-algebra, basic algebra, and basic geometry.)

big P iconOn this site:
Geoboard
Grid Paper
Lab Gear
Triangles and Quadrilaterals
Pentominoes
About virtual manipulatives: Part 1 | Part 2

Geometric Puzzles,
Virtually

Online workshop

Level: Grades 7-10

Description:
Tangrams and pentominoes are geometric puzzles which are fun and interesting for all ages. Can students use those manipulatives in an age of remote instruction? Yes! In this workshop, I will share virtual tools I created to make that possible. I will propose problems suitable for ages 9-99, and we will work as a team to generate dozens of solutions. The activities will touch on symmetry, area, congruence, and similarity.

On YouTube:
Session recording
big P iconOn this site:
"Handout" with links
Slides: PDF | Keynote
Virtual Manipulatives
Geometric Puzzles

Transformational Geometry
for Teachers

Online workshop

Level: Grades 7-12

Description:
Transformational geometry can help bring in new approaches to teaching, broaden and deepen the understanding of proof, and make connections with several other parts of mathematics. Unfortunately, bringing a transformational approach to schools is hampered by lack of clarity and the weight of tradition. I suggest some possibly useful guidelines to facilitate this transition, including what topics should be prioritized in teacher training.

big P iconOn this site:
Blog post (detailed expansion of the talk)
Slides: PDF | Keynote
Transformational Geometry

Connect the Dots!

Geoboard Problems
for Ages 9 to 99

Level: General Interest

Description:
We will explore a wide range of problems and puzzles on geoboards. (Dot paper works also.) Some provide a hands-on approach to secondary school topics such as slope, the Pythagorean theorem, and simplifying radicals. Some are currently unsolved and are fun to think about. Some are "teacher-level" problems, and fall somewhere in between. Participants will walk away with many ready-to-use activities, suitable for middle school, Algebra 1, Geometry, and their own mathematical recreation.

big P iconOn this site:
Using the Geoboard

Lessons from Lew

with Kim Seashore

Level: Grades 7-11

Description:
Lew Douglas, a leading Bay Area math educator, passed away in April 2019. Lew delighted in math and developed lessons to allow others to share in that wonder. Come celebrate his life and contributions as we share some of our favorite classroom activities designed or inspired by Lew Douglas.

Kim Seashore will share what she learned from him when she was a young teacher of geometry. Henri Picciotto will share Lew's introduction to the golden ratio (based on the geometry and algebra of the pentagram); and an activity about symmetric polygons, which can be foundational in a transformational approach to geometry. Bring your own memories and lessons from Lew to share!

big P iconOn this site:
Pentagrams and Spirals (by Lew Douglas, edited by Henri Picciotto)
Symmetric Polygons (by Lew Douglas and Henri Picciotto)
Transformational Geometry (several items co-authored by Lew Douglas)
The Radian Dance (by Kim Seashore, inspired by Lew Douglas)
Kinesthetic Activities (that whole approach inspired in part by Lew Douglas)

The Lab Gear

Manipulatives for Algebra

Level: Grades 6-11

Description:
Given technology, speed and accuracy in algebraic manipulation no longer constitute legitimate priorities. However a grasp of the fundamental structures of algebra (the meaning of variables, operations, functions, equations) remains crucial. Intelligent use of manipulatives can help. The Lab Gear provides a hands-on approach where the inner logic of the model replaces the memorization of seemingly arbitrary rules. This powerful learning tool facilitates communication about abstract ideas and helps improve the discourse in the algebra class.

big P iconOn this site:
The Lab Gear | Q and A
Lab Gear videos and animated slides

Reaching
the Full Range

Level: Grades 7-12

Description:
As everyone knows, students learn math at different rates. What should we do about it? I propose a two-prong strategy based on alliance with the strongest students, and support for the weakest. On the one hand, relatively easy-to-implement ways to insure constant forward motion and eternal review. On the other hand, a tool-based pedagogy (using manipulatives and technology) that supports multiple representations, and increases both access and challenge.

Slides: Online | Keynote
Video (75 minutes)
Webinar recording (64 minutes)

Webinar recording (45 minutes)
Webinar recording (40 minutes)
big P iconOn this site:
Extending Exposure
For a Tool-Rich Pedagogy

Heterogeneous Classes
Group Work
Manipulatives
Visual and Interactive!
Electronic Graphing
These links and more, annotated: About Teaching
big P iconCurriculum items mentioned in the talk:
Pattern Blocks
Geometric Puzzles
Lab Gear
Geoboard
Make These Designs
Geometric Construction
Function Diagrams
The Ten-Centimeter Circle
Algebra: Themes, Tools, Concepts
Geometry Labs
big P iconBlog Post:
Rich Activities

The Long Period

Level: Grades 7-12

Description:
Teaching math in longer periods presents some challenges, but on balance it is a tremendous gift to both teachers and students. For teachers, it is a chance to develop professionally and expand their pedagogical repertoire. For students, it is a chance to experience a more hands-on and more varied program, which can result in better understanding and retention.

big P iconOn this site:
Teaching in the Long Period
Math in the Long Period
Tool-Rich Pedagogy
Manipulatives

Geometric Puzzles

Level: Grades 9-12

Description:
Geometric puzzles are accessible to all students, and provide a popular change of pace from the daily routine. They offer opportunities for hands-on explorations and challenging problems about area, perimeter, congruence, similarity and scaling, symmetry, and the square root of two. In this workshop, you will make tangrams by tearing, discover pentominoes and supertangrams in order to use them in puzzles of increasing difficulty, and use the Pythagorean theorem to get insight into rep-tiles.

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Geometric Puzzles

Transformational Proof

in High School Geometry
with Lew Douglas

Level: Teachers' mathematics, relevant to grades 8-10

Description: A Deep Dive Into Transformational Proof in High School Geometry

In this mini-session, we will provide a detailed framework for transformational proof, including a set of clearly-specified assumptions. We will use these assumptions to prove basic transformational theorems. With these in hand, you can prove triangle congruence and similarity conditions (formerly taken as postulates) and proceed traditionally, or prove the customary theorems without using congruent or similar triangles. It is also possible to combine transformational and traditional proofs. This session is for you as a teacher-learner. We will not focus on activities for students. That said, we will include interactive components and whole-group discussion.

big P iconOn this site:
Transformational Geometry. (Scroll down to Transformational Proof.)

Quadratic Equations
and Functions

Level: Grades 8-10

Description:
Algebra manipulatives provide an environment where students can make sense of two ways to solve quadratic equations: factoring and completing the square. Graphing technology allows students to link those approaches to quadratic functions. Using these tools and connecting these concepts makes the algebra come to life for all students.

big P iconOn this site:
The Lab Gear
Parabolas and Quadratics
Constant Sums, Constant Products
Five Representations | Applet
Geometry-Graphing Connection
Completing the Square | Other applets
Common Core: A Closer Look

Taxicab Geometry

Level: Teachers' Mathematics, relevant to grades 7-12

Description:
Many concepts depend on distance: the triangle inequality, the definition of a circle, the value of π, the properties of the perpendicular bisector, the geometry of the parabola, etc. In taxicab geometry, you can only move horizontally and vertically in the Cartesian plane, so distance is different from the usual "shortest path" definition. We will explore the implications of taxicab distance. There are no prerequisites, other than curiosity and a willingness to experiment on graph paper.

big P iconOn this site:
Geometry Labs
Taxicab Geometry

Computing Transformations

Using Complex Numbers and Matrices

Level: Grades 10-12

Description:
I assume familiarity with the basics of transformational geometry, and present topics for possible use in grades 10-12. An introduction to the mathematics underlying computer graphics: a visual approach to complex numbers in Algebra 2, including review and extension of trigonometry; application of complex numbers to the computation of geometric transformations; and finally 2 by 2 and 3 by 3 matrices for these computations, including how complex numbers help us find the matrix for rotations.

big P iconOn this site:
Complex Numbers in Algebra 2 (PDF)
Complex Number Arithmetic Games
Computing Transformations (PDFs): GeoGebra | TI-89
Matrices overview
Related materials:
Transformational Geometry
Seeking Depth in Algebra 2
Precalculus

Function Diagrams

Level: Grades 7-12

Description:
An encyclopedic introduction to function diagrams and their pedagogical applications to arithmetic, basic algebra, dynamical systems, and calculus. Much of this illustrated with the help of GeoGebra.

big P iconOn this site:
Function diagrams overview
Function diagram applets
Electronic tools for function diagrams
Function diagram PDFs
The Geometry of y=mx+b
Iterating Linear Functions
Presentation slides: PDF | Keynote

Pattern Blocks

for middle and high school

Level: Grades 6-10

Description:
Pattern blocks are ubiquitous in elementary schools, but they're not commonly seen in middle school or high school. Yet, they do offer plenty of interesting curricular opportunities. (And yes, they're fun!) I present an encyclopedic tour of the puzzles, activities, lessons, and connections they suggest about area, perimeter, angle measurement, symmetry, tiling, "π" for regular polygons, and rate of change.

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Pattern Blocks
Geometry Labs, Labs 1.1, 5.6, 7.2-7.4, 11.8
Wallpaper starters
Angles
Pattern Block Trains
Presentation slides (PDF | Keynote)

Three Paths to the Quadratic Formula

Level: Grades 8-11

Description:
A sequence of lessons on parabolas, quadratic functions, and quadratic equations. The unit works well with Algebra 2 students, and includes activities with manipulatives, graphing, and symbol manipulation. These approaches lead to three distinct proofs of the quadratic formula, including a new one.

Bibliography: For the hands-on approach to quadratics and completing the square, see Lab Gear Activities for Algebra 1, by Henri Picciotto, Creative Publications. (It is currently unavailable, but a new edition is in the works. It will be published by Didax.)

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An introduction to the Lab Gear.

Two graphical approaches
Parabolas and Quadratics
Constant Sums, Constant Products

Common Core
a closer look

Level: Grades 9-12

Description:
The Common Core State Standards introduce significant and generally positive changes to the high school math curriculum, but they do not mandate a specific sequence in grades 9-11. This deliberate omission may allow educators to escape the tyranny of tradition, and re-sequence the high school curriculum in a way that is consistent with students' mathematical maturity and brain development, on the one hand, and with the new possibilities offered by advances in pedagogy and by new technologies, on the other. Unfortunately, the large number of standards, and the sequences suggested in the CCSS Appendix undermine these possibilities.

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Presentation slides
In-depth analysis of the high school standards

Making Sense
in Algebra 2

Level: High School

Description:
Units from a course I developed with my colleagues in the Math Department at the Urban School of San Francisco.

This presentation is based on "Seeking Depth in Algebra 2" (see below.)

big P icon On this site: Seeking Depth in Algebra 2

Abstract Algebra

Level: Grades K-12

Description:
Even though Abstract Algebra is a college-level course, it is possible to have a lot of fun with this topic at any age by using an informal approach. I have taught these lessons in one form or another to students in Kindergarten through 12th grade, and to teachers, since 1971. Taken together, they are a good introduction to the power and beauty of mathematical structure. The approach is playful and founded on student experience, discussion, and reflection. The key concept is that of a group, with a special emphasis on the identity and inverse elements, which are essential understandings throughout K-12 mathematics.

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Abstract Algebra

The Geometry of Conic Sections

Level: Grades 9-12

Description:
Most high school curricula seem to forget that the conic sections are geometric objects! I will explain in several ways that contrary to popular belief, all parabolas have exactly the same shape. I will use interactive software (both 2D and 3D) to construct the conics, prove their reflection properties, and show that they are indeed the result of slicing a cone. Finally, I will explore a question about soccer that unexpectedly leads to a hyperbola.

big P iconOn this site:
Geometry of the Parabola
Geometry of the Conic Sections
Soccer Angles

Space
An alternate elective
after Algebra 2

Level: Grades 11-12

Description:
An advanced geometry elective I have taught biennially since 1992. Three components: symmetry (introduction to abstract algebra, recognizing symmetry groups around a point, along a line, and in the plane, art projects, tiling); transformations (complex numbers review, matrices, isometries); dimension (polyhedra, Platonic and Archimedean solids, duality, Euler's and Descartes' theorems, the fourth dimension.) Using Cabri 2 and 3D software, building with the Zome system, reading Abbott's Flatland.

big P icon On this site: Space

Reimagining
High School Math

Level: Grades 9-12

Description:
High school math classes look very much the same from year to year and from school to school. Yet, other models are possible! In addition, technological advances mean that speed and accuracy are no longer legitimate priorities. We can no longer divorce skills from understanding, nor can we consider obsolete skills to be foundational. What we need is an eclectic mix of approaches that prioritize student learning and habits of mind.

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Presentation slides
Urban School Math Department
Nothing Works

Connecting
the Dots

Level: Grades 7-10

Description:
Accessible hands-on activities on the geoboard (or dot paper) lead to many ideas in arithmetic, geometry, and algebra: equivalent fractions, slope, the Pythagorean theorem, and simplifying radicals. This session is suitable for middle school and high school math teachers who are looking for Common Core-compatible approaches and content which will work with a wide range of students.

big P iconOn this site:
Geoboard Activities (includes presentation slides)
Dot papers
Geometry Labs (especially labs 8.5, 8.6, 9.2, 9.3, 9.4, 10.1, 10.2)
Presentation slides
Geoboard diagonals
The Pythagorean Geoboard

Strengthening Mathematics Departments

with Laura Hawkins

Audience: This session will be of particular interest to department chairs and anyone involved in school change.

Description: How do we build a culture of teacher collaboration? How do we spread effective approaches across the department? How do we incorporate new ideas into our program? How do we respond to administrative directives, as well as to the needs of our students? What should we ask of our administrators? We will share our tentative answers, and would love to hear yours. Join us in a conversation about what it takes to strengthen a math department.

Teacher Collaboration
A key to improving
math instruction

Audience: This session will be of particular interest to department chairs and anyone involved in school change.

Description: Teachers value autonomy and specialization, yet the advantages of collaboration and flexibility are many. So are the complications. Hear the rationale for one department's move to intensive mentoring and the development of a collaborative ethic. I will assess decades of experience in this practice, and reflect upon its impact on teachers, curriculum, pedagogy, and learning.

big P icon On this site:
Presentation slides.
Teacher Collaboration (an article from Independent School, co-authored with Jonathan Howland).
Escape from the Textbook! sharing and collaboration network.

Nothing Works!
The Art of Teaching
Mathematics

Level: Grades 9-12

Description:
Teaching high school math is a complex endeavor, where apparently contradictory approaches can complement each other: there is no one way that works with all teachers and all students. I will present my mix of techniques for organizing curriculum, sequencing concepts, designing rich activities, working with (somewhat) heterogeneous classes, leading effective class discussions, using cooperative learning groups, assigning homework, assessing student understanding, and other day-to-day concerns.

big P icon On this site: About Teaching

Infinity
An alternate elective
after Algebra 2

Level: Grades 11-12

Description:
Syllabus and highlights of an alternate math elective after Algebra 2, which I have been teaching biennially since 1991: paradoxes involving infinity, proof by contradiction, Cantor's discoveries, mathematical induction, chaos, fractals; connections to literature, philosophy, science, and computer programming. Readily available materials on these subjects tend to be written for either the general public or college students. My presentation will focus on how to make this content accessible in high school.

big P icon On this site: Infinity

Level: High School Minicourse

Description:
Units from a course I developed with my colleagues in the Math Department at the Urban School of San Francisco. Our approach is to cover fewer topics in greater depth and to use a variety of learning tools, both manipulative and electronic.

This presentation was initially created by Naoko Akiyama and Scott Nelson as a one-hour presentation. I joined them to expand it to a three-hour minicourse.

Bibliography:
- Hands-on approach to quadratics and completing the square: Algebra Lab Gear two books by Henri Picciotto, from Didax.
- Geometric approach to complex numbers: Algebra II/Trigonometry: A Guided Inquiry, by Stein, Crabill, and Chakerian (out of print)

big P icon On this site: Seeking Depth in Algebra 2

Geometry Labs

Using Manipulatives to Teach about Angles and to Introduce Trigonometry

Level: Grades 8-11 Workshop

Description:
What is an angle? Interior and exterior angles in a polygon. Inscribed and central angles. Soccer angles. Trig ratios.

Puzzles and problems using pattern blocks and circular geoboards, plus the students' own bodies.

These new approaches to old topics provide both access and challenge and work well with heterogeneous classes. The labs enhance discourse and deepen understanding.

(I also offer an all-day version of this, covering more topics.)

Bibliography: See my book Geometry Labs.

big P icon On this site: See Angles and The Ten-Centimeter Circle

Minicourse

Description: Make regular polygons, pyramids, prisms, and antiprisms. Explore the relationships between the dodecahedron, the icosahedron, the rhombic triacontahedron, and more... Identify the components of icosahedral symmetry.

A hands-on lab with an amazing manipulative, making connections with many traditional geometry and trigonometry topics.

Bibliography:
The handouts are excerpted from Zome Geometry (Key Curriculum Press) a book I co-authored with George W. Hart, using the Zome System

On the Web:
For a taste of what is possible with the Zome System, check out George Hart's page about Zome Polyhedra, and his Advanced Zome Constructions.

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