In this episode of Room to Grow, Curtis and Joanie dive into ideas around exploration and play in mathematics. Although this may seem frivolous and not a priority for time-constrained math educators, our hosts discuss the positive implications on student learning, mindsets, and engagement in the mathematics. By framing an activity as “exploration,” the stress many students carry around learning math can dissipate, opening their minds to better understanding and enjoyment, and allowing them to tap into the power of their common sense and creativity. 

Curtis and Joanie consider how math educators can be strategic in their use of exploration and play so that the time taken is well spent and pays off for learning of important mathematical ideas.

Be sure to check out these resources, referenced in the episode and supportive of including mathematical exploration in your classroom:

• Problems worth solving at https://www.openmiddle.com/. Curtis referenced an exploration of quadratics in standard form, available here: https://www.openmiddle.com/maximum-value-of-a-quadratic-in-standard-form/
• Texas Instruments transformational geometry activities and lesson bundles are great for geometry exploration and can be found here: https://education.ti.com/en/timathnspired/us/geometry/transformational-geometry

Share your feedback, comments, and suggestions for future episode topics by emailing [email protected]. Be sure to connect with your hosts on Twitter and Instagram: @JoanieFun and @cbmathguy.