8 Principles for Effective Teaching
1. Build on the knowledge learners bring to lessons
Effective teachers assess and use prior learning and adapt their teaching to the needs of learners.
2. Expose and discuss common misconceptions
Effective teachers systematically expose, challenge and discuss common mistakes and misconceptions.
3. Develop effective questioning
Effective teachers use a variety of lower-level and higher-level open questions rather than a continuous diet
of closed recall questions.
4. Use cooperative small group work
Effective teachers use cooperative small group work so that all learners are able to discuss
important ideas. This has positive effects on learning, social skills and self-esteem.
5. Emphasise methods rather than answers
Effective teachers do not worry too much about whether or not learners complete every task,
but instead they try to increase the power of learners to explain and use mathematical ideas.
6. Use rich collaborative tasks
Effective teachers use rich collaborative tasks that:
• are accessible and extendable;
• allow learners to make decisions;
• involve learners in testing, proving, explaining, reflecting, interpreting;
• promote discussion and communication;
• encourage originality and invention;
• encourage ‘what if?’ and ‘what if not?’ questions;
• are enjoyable and contain the opportunity for surprise.
7. Create connections between mathematical topics
Effective teachers use activities that create connections between closely related concepts and
notations (such as division, fraction and ratio).
8. Use technology in appropriate ways
Effective teachers use technology to present mathematical concepts in dynamic, visually
exciting ways that engage and motivate learners.
Useful web sites
www.algebasics.com
www.mathsisfun.com
http://gwrdir.demon.co.uk/jo/solid/index.htm
www.s-cool.co.uk
http://www.standards.dfes.gov.uk/keystage3/respub/afl_ws
www.echalk.co.uk
www.whiteboardmaths.com
www.mathsmadeeasy.co.uk
www.edhelper.com
www.mathsgoodies.com
www.fantasticcontraption.com
www.coolmaths4kids.com
www.mathsyear2000.org
www.tutor4u.com
www.revisionguru.com
www.byteacher.org.uk
www.mathletic.com
www.whizz-me.com