Delta-K Volume 53 Issue 1

Journal of the Mathematics Council of the Alberta Teachers’ Association

Volume 53 Issue 1, January 2016

As this is my first issue as editor of delta-K, I would like to introduce myself. I am excited to work on delta-K and look forward to reading, discussing and sharing current, notable and engaging mathematics ideas with teachers in Alberta and beyond.

Here’s a quick bit about my background: I received my bachelor of education and master of education degrees in 1988 and 1997, respectively, from the University of Leth bridge. I began teaching in 1988 at a K -8 school
in Barons, Alberta. In 1989 I became a Grades 9-12 math teacher at Medicine Hat High School, where I taught all levels of high school math for the next 21 years. In 2008 I began teaching sessionally at Medicine Hat College; this turned into a full-time assignment in 2010 teaching education, and math and science classes. I am currently teaching the Math Curriculum and Instruction course, and supervising field experiences in the Mount
Royal University Bachelor of Education program at Medicine Hat College. I also have had many professional experiences in terms of program development, leadership roles and professional growth.

I would like to sincerely thank Gladys Sterenberg for her excellent work as past editor of delta-K. Her expertise, involvement, time commitment and dedicated thought are truly valued. I’m sure we will continue to hear from Gladys as she moves into other roles and interests within the educational field.

This issue incorporates interesting discussion about education reform, the history of mathematics and formative assessment to encourage thought. The feature article, “Addressing the Misconceptions of the Equal Sign,”
by Brad Weible, discusses an in-depth debate, research presentation and implications of various student understanding levels of our familiar symbol. Also included in this issue are practical teaching ideas about blueprinting assessments, by Greg Wondga, and two cross-curricular units of study-the first on the topic of “homesteading” in Grade 4, by Dalyce Harrison, and the second on the topic of a business-marketing project in Grade 9, by Katherine Weber. The past three math contests, interesting problem-solving moments, a website highlight and two book reviews round out this issue. It is so encouraging to have the opportunity for these discussions and growth.

Continue to send in submissions of all types; sharing with other math teachers around the province is essential! So many of you have so much to give and share. Above all else, learn, grow and enjoy being the mathematicians that you all are. Your students are the benefactors!

Lorelei Boschman

1 – 2

Front Matter

From the Editor’s Desk

Lorelei Boschman

4 – 6

Should (or Does) Mathematics Education Research Inform Our Mathematics Teaching Practices?

Chantal Buteau, Nadia Hardy and Joyce Mgombelo

7 – 9

Why Use History in a Mathematics Classroom?

Glen Van Brummelen

10 – 14