"5 Principles of the Modern Mathematics Classroom is an easy-to-read and use book that provides educators with practical strategies and solutions to immediately incorporate into their mathematics classrooms. The design of the book provides classroom teachers an opportunity for deep reflection of their current mathematics instructional practices to ensure that they are creating students who are mathematical thinkers and problem solvers.
"Gerald Aungst reframes mathematical thinking for the reader, giving space for teachers to go beyond the usual airtight methods for math pedagogy."
"Bravo! 5 Principles of the Modern Mathematics Classroom brings a conceptual framework for K-12 mathematics to life. As a parent of a struggling math student and as the executive director of Edutopia, a source for what works in education, I commend Gerald Aungst for sharing his five principles of the modern mathematics classroom. This book is a perfect blend of inspiring and practical. Highly recommended!"
"Take a good, hard look at your teaching practices! If your math classroom resembles your childhood classroom, then you need to invite Gerald Aungst to the party. His 5 practices will help you transform your teaching so you can develop the critical thinkers of tomorrow. Gone are the days when mathematics instruction was focused solely on procedures. As Gerald describes so astutely in terms of music, we must train our students to be ready to work through unique problems just as we train music students to sight read.
"Gerald masterfully reminds us that math education must be more than a “recipe” and challenges us to aid our students in thinking like mathematicians. With practical advice and inspiration, you’ll again find the beauty in math and be empowered to reveal it for your students. Regardless of the age you teach, this book offers a fantastic breakdown of the role of conjecture, collaboration, communication, chaos, and celebration play in transforming your classroom into one where students engage free-range thinking every day."
"Gerald Aungst is as innovative as he is refreshing in his approach to mathematics instruction. The strategies he describes will make an average teacher excellent and an excellent teacher outstanding. The examples in this book can be used immediately in 1-on-1 conversations with teachers, small group professional development, or large group workshops. Each chapter resonates with his approach to the modern mathematics classroom. This book is an excellent resource for every teacher who teaches mathematics."
"Mathematical thinking critically impacts a learner's capability to process the world around her. The typical math instruction actually degrades a child's capability to see math in the world and to find delight in the messy construction of analytical, critical and creative processes through mathematical thinking. In 5 Principles of the Modern Math Classroom, Gerald Aungst provides a learning path for teachers that leads them to think together and to practice math instruction that makes math real. And that's what great math teachers do – at any age."
"Math is linear... Math is neat and tidy... Math is about getting the right answer... Not in this book! Gerald has done an awesome job of showing us what math learning can look like in a way that embraces the messy inquiry and problem-solving that accompanies real world math. Put this book to work and watch your students be amazing!"
"In 5 Principles of the Modern Mathematics Classroom: Creating a Culture of Innovative Thinking, Gerald Aungst comprehensively describes the characteristics of an environment for mathematical learning which integrates the math practice standards and actively involves students in higher level, inquiry-based thinking. Aungst’s book holds value for the beginning teacher, who will find a multitude of resources and ideas for establishing an effective mathematics classroom, and for the seasoned teacher, who will be challenged to reflect on her own practice and incorporate the five p
“What does it take to be an excellent teacher? With so many ideas about teaching floating about, it is necessary to capture the essential components and package them for careful consideration. While perspectives for what it actually takes to ensure all students flourish are manifold, it is certain that the aspiring teacher must be constantly reflecting on her practice and expanding her awareness of productive beliefs and actions.
"One of the major strengths is that the book is written in teacher friendly language and that it gives practical examples. This content is much needed for today’s teachers who are either stuck in a traditional way of teaching OR wanting to change and are looking for ideas . . . I would definitely purchase this book and would strongly consider it as a supplementary, recommended text for classes I teach as an adjunct faculty member."
"This is the book that teachers have been waiting for - evidence-based practices that are easy to implement. Aungst walks us through simple ways to change our mindset about math, encourage students to embrace mathematical challenges and integrate technology in our daily practices. So many ideas for every grade level!"
"Gerald has written a book about math instruction and learning, but the strategies can easily trickle to other disciplines in school. He not only shares great ideas about how we can create meaningful learning opportunities and environments for students, he clearly articulates why this is important. As someone who is not a math teacher, I found what Gerald wrote to be applicable to much of the work that I am doing in all areas, and really felt that the environment of math learning that he shared is much better than the one I experienced as a student."
"Aungst ignites the magic of mathematics for his readers through five beautifully articulated guiding principles. Reminding us of what makes mathematicians so passionate about their subject matter, Gerald not only grounds his work in research but also takes us on a journey into several classrooms in each vignette so that we may take away actual, practical tips to put into practice today."
“A dynamic read for math educators K-12, Aungst challenges the status quo and many traditional methods of classroom instruction that are still prevalent in many of our nation’s classrooms. In doing so, he makes a case for the vitality of a student-centered, rich classroom culture, filled with collaboration, problem-solving, rigorous curriculum, and high-quality communication, while celebrating student success at every turn.
"In this book, Gerald Aungst expertly weaves math & literacy to promote a culture of thoughtful inquiry, problem-solving, and innovative thinking. He consistently demonstrates deep respect for the topic, the teachers, and the students, carefully interspersing stories, strategies, questions, tips, and tools in just right places throughout each chapter to maximize understanding using a gradual release of responsibility model.
"Math is an area in which critical thinking skills are vital. This book will assist educators in encouraging students to think critically when dealing with math problems. Learning to incorporate the 5C’s into the math classroom is sure to enhance both teaching and learning! . . . I would purchase this book. We always welcome material that will enhance our students’ ability to learn and develop critical thinking skills! (And even have some “fun” while learning!!!)"
"I absolutely recommend publication! Elementary teachers are overwhelmed with how to teach multi-step problems to young children. Knowing they (the teachers) don’t have to be the Know-All of the class, but to allow the students the opportunity to think, possibly fail, repeat, provides the teacher time to watch the students and help direct their learning.”
"This book is practical and forward thinking. It should be required reading for undergraduate college math methods classes."
"This book is great for our educational world right now. There have been many who are talking about the changes in our math classrooms to help promote more problem solving and not just answering questions. This is a great start for teachers to begin to make changes in their classrooms for students to become great problem solvers . . . I would purchase this book for the math team to have them begin the discussions of helping students become problem solvers."
This title is also available on SAGE Knowledge, the ultimate social sciences online library. If your library doesn’t have access, ask your librarian to start a trial.