Maegan Giroux brings 15 years of diverse teaching experience to the conversation, having taught grades 5-9 and currently working with both kindergarten and sixth-grade students. During our discussion, she shared valuable insights about creating effective thinking-based mathematics classrooms.
Classroom Culture as Foundation
At the heart of Maegan’s approach is the belief that a strong, nurturing classroom culture must be established early in the school year. This foundation, she emphasizes, is not just beneficial but essential for the successful implementation of thinking tasks. When students feel safe and supported, they’re more willing to take risks and engage deeply with challenging mathematical concepts.
Strategic Grouping Practices
For younger learners (kindergarten through second grade), Maegan recommends partner work to build collaborative skills while maintaining focus. In upper elementary and middle school, she suggests random groups of three, which provide the perfect balance of diverse perspectives while ensuring each student maintains an active role in the discussion.
To spark engagement and build connections within these groups, Maegan starts each task with a quick “Question of the Day” or “This or That” prompt. These simple icebreakers ensure everyone’s voice is heard early in the activity, setting the stage for more inclusive mathematical discussions.
Maegan outlined a Three-Tiered Task Implementation approach to structuring lesson concepts:
1. Entry Level: Simple, accessible tasks that build confidence
2. Bridge Level: Familiar concepts with new elements that stretch understanding
3. Challenge Level: More complex problems that push mathematical thinking
The Power of Consolidation
Maegan stressed that each task must conclude with a consolidation phase. This final step ensures that all students, regardless of their path through the task, arrive at the necessary mathematical connections and understanding. It’s during this phase that individual discoveries transform into shared classroom knowledge.
This thoughtful approach to mathematics instruction reflects Maegan’s commitment to creating inclusive, engaging learning environments where every student can succeed with thinking tasks.
