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Conferences ›› Maths Counts 2019

Maths Counts 2019

What a brilliant day of maths teaching and learning Maths Counts 2019 proved to be. Over 200 people attended to celebrate the work of the hundreds of Irish maths teachers who participated in this years PDST’s Lesson-Study programme.  Some highlights of the event included:

  • An excellent keynote address by Prof. Jeremy Hodgen focusing on his recently published research which evaluates the impact of various teaching approaches and factors on student attainment in Mathematics.
  • 8 workshops delivered by Irish Maths teachers who participated in Lesson Study 2017-2018.
  • Teaching and learning workshops covering the five strands of the Leaving Certificate syllabus delivered by the PDST Post-Primary Maths team.
  • Teaching and learning workshops by our colleagues from the PDST Primary STEM team on teaching and learning of mathematics in fifth and sixth class.
  • Poster Display comprising the work of Lesson-Study research groups.
  • Closing address by JCT Team Leader for Maths – Shane Flanagan.
  • Exhibits by a variety of Irish Education companies.

Thank you to everyone who attended.

Keynote address

Prof Jeremy Hodgen did not fail to impress with his insightful and thought provoking address highlighting among other things our student’s misconception that Maths is a series of rules that needs to be guessed (the story of Mr Short and Mr Tall) and the importance of using manipulatives.

Conference Resources

Maths Counts 2019 Booklet

Advisor Workshops

Calculus Workshop Hands-On Geometry Workshop
Complex Numbers Workshop GeoGebra Workshop
Financial Maths Workshop The Circle Workshop

Geogebra Workshop Files

Complex Multiplication 1 Complex Multiplication 2
Complex Addition Complex Conjugate

Lesson Study Library

Problem-Solving Lesson Proposals

Check out the lesson proposals developed by Maths teachers involved in Lesson Study. SEARCH for a particular lesson or sort the lessons according to topic, year group or level. Click RESET to return to the full list of lessons.

Lesson TitleDescriptionTopicYear GroupLevel
Divide and ConquerUnderstanding long division of polynomials,
Step by StepStudents use physical manipulatives to derive and understand the cosine rule
What’s the point?Students make connections between linear patterns , coordinate geometry and real world scenarios
What’s The Meaning Of Z-scoresStudents build on their prior knowledge of mean and standard deviation to understand and use z scores,
Top Dog AreaStudents deduce different shapes from a word problem using different area and perimeter formulae. Connections are made between trigonometry and generalisation using algebraic notation., ,
Simultaneous ShapesStudents progress from the concrete, to the pictorial, to the abstract, solving simultaneous equations using multiple strategies.,
Missing In ActionStudents use the idea of equality to form, interpret and solve equations. Students are asked to describe, explain and justify their method for doing this.,
Looks Different, Same ValueStudents develop a deeper understanding of equivalent fractions and add and subtract algebraic fractions.,
Explain that FormulaStudents explore properties of 3-dimensional shapes and use nets to understand where the surface area formula of a cylinder comes from.
Across the divideStudents work on real life word problems where the operation of division is presented in different ways
It’s Show TimeIn this lesson, students will try to solve problems relating to time, and to enhance their understanding and reading of time.
What’s your Angle?Pupils will be presented with 2 parallel lines and 5 points (A, B, C, D and E). Angle ABC is 110 ̊ and CDE is …,
Percentage ParadoxStructured problem solving lesson involving multiple approaches to a direct proportion percentages problem. Misconceptions around percentage equations are addressed leading to considering an algebraic approach.
A Pizza of the (Fr)ActionStudents are given a problem to consolidate their learning of adding fractions and to apply this to the addition of fractions with a variable.
What about ParallelogramsExploring properties of parallelograms using various approaches and looking for connections between these approaches
Thinking Outside the TriangleUsing a given diagram to lead students to the discovery of the proof that the exterior angle in a triangle is equal to the sum …
The Volume of MoneyThrough discovery, students derive the formula for the volume of a cylinder. This is achieved through examining the area of a circle (2D) and linking …
The X FactorExploring different ways to represent factorisation of a single algebraic term leading to factorising a two term linear expression.
The Power that Lies BeneathUsing Assessment for learning techniques of multiple choice diagnostic testing and effective questioning to explore index rules
The Array ModelUsing the Array Model to factorise quadratic expressions. This proposal includes a unit plan for expanding and factorising in algebra and making important connections.
Straight to the nth GameUsing a problem question to develop the general formula for a pattern
Show Me the MoneyDiscovering the different measures of central tendency using celebrities as examples
Scrutinizing the Difference between Two SquaresThis proposal uses the concepts from ‘Algebra through the lens of functions’ to bring students to the discovery of the difference of two squares using …
Run Johnny Run, Maths To The RescueUsing prior knowledge of triangles to explore trigonometric ratios and use them to solve problems.
Point Of Pick-UpUsing prior knowledge of algebra, coordinate geometry, synthethic geometry and constructions the fairest position for a bus stop is to be located from an aerial …
Place Your PixUsing the problem of placing a picture in a frame, students discover the difference between two squares
Matchstick ChallengeThis lesson is based on first year patterns, introducing students to the concept of the general term.
It’s Show Time,
In The AirUsing a word problem to graph functions
How Big Is Pi?Using varying circles to discover pi and use this discovery to create the formula for the circumference of a circle using different methods.
Getting To The Problem Of The RootIdentifying relationships between quadratic equations, roots and graphs
Get UnsnookeredUsing a mix of Geometry, Trigonometry and Coordinate Geometry to solve a real-world problem.,
Forthnightly MathsIn a computer game context, students will have to identify intersecting points between a line and a curve using a variety of methodologies.
Express My PointStudents will be introduced to the concept of writing mathematical expressions and exploring values for a fixed variable in two league tables.
Equating Fortnite-lyUsing word problems in algebra to introduce equations
Disco TaxiUsing a word problem to introduce transformations of quadratic functions and establishing the algebraic representation of the function.
Circling LongitudeA real life scenario of a drone taking a photo at a music festival is presented. Students are tasked with finding the best possible position …
Car Savings ConundrumStudents act as a financial advisor and must investigate a number of saving plans to advise their client how long it will take to save …
Basket CaseIntroducing simultaneous equations through word problems and solving by graphing,
All Aboard Quadratic AirlinesThis lesson provokes students understanding of how quadratic graphs relate to their equation and how they can relate to other similar equations
A Journey in FinanceModelling a financial problem using a geometric series and investigating the timeline assosciated with payments
2 or not 2x that is the questionThis lesson provides a physical approach to the understanding of ‘like’ and ‘unlike’ terms.
A Step in the Right DirectionThis lesson introduces students to trigonometric ratios.
Who is being Irrational?After calculating some distances using Pythagoras students will work towards the discovery and understanding of irrational numbers.
When Area is 64Students are presented with an area problem and by exploring their solutions they will see that all the information pertaining to the problem may be …
What’s your Angle?Through exploring relationships in triangles, students will discover that the exterior angle of a triangle is equal to the sum of the two interior opposite …
Untangles the AnglesUsing various methods students will discover different relationships between the angles in a diagram based on parallel lines.
Unpacking 3D ShapesStudents will examine a square based pyramid, identify all 2D shapes possible using the points given and find the areas of these shapes.,
Transversals are CopycatsGiven a diagram with three parallel lines and three transversals, students will use their knowledge of geometry to identify existing relationships between pairs of angles, …
Top of the VlogsStudents will present two sets of data in graphic form and will learn that there are more than one way to represent data.,
Time for TellyStudents will learn to deal with problems of time by solving a problem based on when a film of given duration will end if advertisements …
The Trapezoidal RuleStudents will engage with a problem to find the area of an irregular shape and by doing so will find a formal method for dealing …, ,
The Story of Two DronesStudents will be asked to apply their knowledge to solve a real life scenario of two drones on a collision course.,
The Story of the GannetStudents will describe the story of a gannet’s dive as represented by a quadratic graph using words, the parameters of height and time and mathematical …
The Integers CupStudents will develop understanding of integer operations by solving a problem based on a game of golf.
The Great Wall of NenaghProblem solving approach to link Patterns, Co-ordinate Geometry and Algebra., ,
The Grand RationalStudents are given an algebraic fraction and are asked to uncover as many properties of the fraction as they can using algebraic procedures, tables and …
The Ex FactorThrough a problem-solving approach, students find the sum of exterior angles of a triangle in as many ways as possible.
The Balancing ActIntroducing Simultaneous Equations through problem solving.
The Formula Speaks VolumesStudents will explore the volume formula for cuboids and develop a formula for volume of all prisms leading to the discovery of the formula for …
The Flow of MoneyStudents will try to solve a tax problem with higher and standard rate of tax, to enhance their understanding of how tax works.
Takeaway TranslationIn this lesson students will try to solve a word problem using a variety of methods and will discover that such problems can be solved …
Subway SubstitutionStudents are presented with a menu and asked to use an algebraic expression to describe the bill.
SnowflakesStudents will be challenged to express repeating linear patterns algebraically.
Simultaneously solving for two variablesStudents will be given two linear equations with two unknown variables and will be required to solve for the two unknown variables using as many …
Similar Triangle WrangleStudents will be using dotted paper to produce similar triangles and understand that a line parallel to a side produces similar triangles.,
Shootin’ HoopsStudents will be provided with a calculus question that requires them to utilize their algebraic knowledge of roots to construct the pathway of a basketball.,
Sharing the UnknownStudents will understand the need for algebraic fractions when dealing with basic real-world problems.,
Run Circles Around PythagorasStudents will be asked to find as many Pythagorean pairs when c is 5 leading to the discovery of the equation of a circle.,
Pump Up The VolumeStudents will use various strategies to transform different irregular solids into familiar cuboids and thus calculate the volume.,
The Power of AlgebraStudents will be presented with a simultaneous linear functions problem and encouraged to solve the problem in a variety of ways.
Plane ClothesStudents solve a problem on the area of a triangle in as many ways as possible. The solutions help form connections between geometry and coordinate …, ,
Percentages PredicamentStudents tackle a percentage increase problem to understand the concept of ‘more than 100%’.
Paving PatternsStudents are encouraged to examine patterns in various ways to derive connections between linear patterns, equations and graphs., ,
Patterns in PolygonsStudents use their prior knowledge of geometry and linear patterns to write a mathematical statement describing the relationship between the sum of the angles and …,
Partying with IndicesThrough an exponential growth problem it is hoped that students will recognise the usefulness of indices in such situations and discover the first law of …
Paper RatioStudents will be given A3, A4 and A5 sheets of paper and asked to investigate any relationships between them in as many ways as possible.
MurlingStudents will work with a real world problem involving establishing the distance from the origin and roots of a quadratic function.,
Multiplying Messi’s MillionsIn this lesson students will investigate models and use the concept of a “thought experiment” in a real life context to illustrate the operation of …
Monkey PuzzleStudents develop an understanding of the properties of fractions through a real-life problem.
Meet You HalfwayStudents are given a photograph of Sligo town with a coordinate grid superimposed on it. They are asked to find the location which is halfway …
Make-Up MoneyStudents will solve a problem based on saving money. By discussing the various approaches used it is hoped that students will identify connections between several …, ,
M.M.A. Mixed Mathematical ApproachesStudents will formulate the area of the first floor (rectangle) of Conor Mc Gregor’s holiday home in Las Vegas.,
Kevin’s Cash ConnundrumStudents will show in many ways how to represent a word problem which will lead to an algebraic equation. Following this they will solve an …
Katie versus Conor – Who will win?Students explore probability and relative frequency by considering who would win in a fight between Katie Taylor or Conor McGregor.,
Justifying your ThinkingStudents are challenged to explain why one Electricity contract is better value than another by describing a graph of their pricing structures.
It’s Thirsty WorkStudents will learn to interpret graphs by investigating the flow of liquid into three different containers.
It’s a Matter of PrinciplesStudents investigate the rate of change of a rocket whose path is modelled by a quadratic function.
It’s Moore of a ProcessStudents investigate Moore’s Law in order to apply their understanding of Logarithms and Exponential Functions andhow they are related to each other.,
How much is the special Offer?Students will be presented with a real life problem verbally and visually and will learn to recognise how to solve a simultaneous equation using elimination.
Heavenly SlopesStudents will engage in structured problem solving to develop their understanding of the “slope” of a line, and of the relationships between the slopes of …,
Going underground on a Roller CoasterStudents are introduced to quadratic relationships via an in-context problem.,
Fractions meet AlgebraStudents will learn to apply their knowledge of fractions and equations to the solving of equations involving algebraic fractions.,
Elf on the ShelfStudents will use their knowledge of trigonometry, synthetic geometry and their problem solving skills to find the angle of depression from a point.,
Diving for RootsStudents are introduced to quadratic equations from a functions point of view and will use this to make connections to the algebraic method(s) for factorising …,
Dining Out – Who Gets your Money“In this lesson students will complete a problem to find out how much a meal costs before tax is added by finishing this question they …
Cuir Cruth AirTrí a bheith ag plé le léaráid ina bhfuil triantáin agus cearnóga, tiocfaidh na daltaí ar ghaol idir a n-achair. Tabharfaidh an gaol seo dóibh …, ,
Cover the Distance FasterStudents apply their knowledge and understanding of coordinates, calculating length and Pythagoras’ Theorem to calculate the distance between two points, with the intention they will …,
Count like an EgyptianStudents are given a problem and asked to explore different approaches leading them to query the difference between multiplication and addition.
Box BonanzaStudents work on the problem of calculating the number of matchsticks in a structure which leads to developing linear expressions.
Baby it’s cold outsideThe aim of this lesson is consolidate students’ knowledge of how to solve a quadratic equation algebraically and graphically whilst also drawing on students’ prior …,
Are we there yet?Students are encouraged to solve a problem by finding the midpoint between two points. This can be achieved in many ways. Through Ceardaíocht students will …,
Are you up for the Match?The aim is for the students to discover the Fundamental Principal of Counting through problem solving using all previous knowledge to extend their learning into …
Are Circles PointlessIn this lesson students will actively participate in solving a problem that will progress towards understanding, recognising and applying the equation of the circle,
Getting Value for MoneyStudents will try to solve a problem involving currency exchange set in a real life situation.
Angles to find the TreasureThe students will be given a map with three different routes to treasure for three pirates. Students must identify the routes and calculate the distances …,
2D or not 2D?The lesson focuses on students designing an open rectangular box when given the area of its base and total surface area of the box.,
2D to 3D… That is the Question?Students will be presented with a problem in which they need to select and use appropriate knowledge from the different strands in maths, and decipher …, , , , , ,
Prof. Takahashi’s Lesson ProposalThrough a series of problems, students learn about the conditions required for congruency (includes student worksheets).,
Introducing Differential CalculusDeveloping an understanding of key calculus concepts using rates of change.
The Polygon PredicamentConnecting multiple mathematical topics to solve a geometric problem., , , ,
The Perfect SelfieUsing geometry and trigonometry to solve a 3D problem.,
Developing Frieda’s FieldDeveloping the formula for the area of a non-right-angled triangle.,
Enter the MatrixSolving a multi-variable problem using many methods.
The General Term of a Quadratic PatternUsing multiple strategies to develop the formula for a quadratic relationship.,
Heading for TroubleLearning how to deal with a two-variable problem where one relationship is noon-linear.
Navigating an Ash CloudDrawing on algebra, geometry and trigonometry to solve a problem., ,
The Water RocketAnalysing quadratic relationships using multiple strategies., ,
What makes a ParallelogramUsing trigonometry & geometry to calculate the area of a parallelogram.,
Tick Tock – Area of an IncircleUse the properties of an equilateral triangle to find the area of its incircle.,
Seeing through the DabApplying trigonometry to solve a 3D problem.,
Decoding De MoivreUnderstanding the concepts of rotations and scales which underpin De Moivre’s Theorem., ,
How many ways can you prove It?Understanding the construction of the bisector of an angle.,
Centre of a RectangleStudents draw on many topics to find the centroid of a rectangle., , ,
Comparing Percentages, Decimals & FractionsCalculate the percentage and fraction of a number in many ways.
Coordinate Geometry meets Synthetic GeometryUsing coordinate geometry, theorems, corollaries and constructions to show a quadrilateral is a rectangle.,
Picture this QuadraticModelling images using quadratic functions and understanding the importance of roots.,
Transformation TrickeryApplying knowledge of transformations for problem-solving.
3D CubesIdentifying right-angled triangles in 3D solids to solve problems.,
Anyone for Pizza – Solving Simultaneous EquationsModelling problems with simultaneous equations and how elimination can be used to solve them.
Coffee and Tea SimultaneouslySolving a two-variable problem using different techniques.,
An Average ProblemUnderstand the properties of different measures of average.
The Cookie CrumblesMoving from area to volume in a uniform solid.
Into the Next DimensionUnderstanding the relationship between cross-sectional area and volume for a uniform solid.
Equivalent FractionsStudents learn to compare fractions using graphical methods.
More Pizza for meUsing scaling to compare different quantities fairly.
Pragmatic QuadraticCalculating the area of a shape with unknown dimensions.,
Rich, Happy, Healthy or FamousUsing Census @ School data to compare methods for analysing data.
Roots and ShootsCalculating the dimensions of a shape given its area in general terms.,
Tri to be ShadyUsing many approaches to calculate an unknown area.,
The Window MakerUsing two-variable problems to develop simultaneous equations.
Grazing GazellesDiscovering Pythagoras’s Theorem.,
Tin of BeansUsing the concept of cross-sectional area to change area of a circle into volume of a cylinder.
Translating Words into SymbolsUsing different operations to develop the same number., ,
An Alternative Approach to Alternate AnglesProblem solving to demonstrate that alternate angles are equal in measure.
Are you Snookered?Use axioms and theorems to calculate a pair of missing angles.
Perimeter of an Irregular ShapeCalculating perimeter of a shape with known and unknown lengths.,
Home and AwayUnderstanding distance-time graphs.,
A Tough ClimbUnderstanding the concept of slope.,
Mary’s AgeApplying linear equations to problems.
Perfecting PercentagesUnderstanding the usefulness of percentages in understanding proportion.
Count the SweetsStudents apply algebraic reasoning to problem-solve a linear relationship.,
The Chocolate ChallengeUsing equivalent fractions to decide which unit quantity is greatest.
The Great HallUsing linear relationships to develop algebraic thinking.
The Problem with Cats & DogsLearning to use Venn Diagrams as a problem-solving tool.
What’s your Angle?Applying knowledge of axioms and theorems to calculate missing angles.
Working with Fred Pattern-SonUsing a visual pattern to introduce linear relationships.
Introducing Algebra & Word EquationsApplying algebraic reasoning to in-context problems.
Let’s think about BIDMASApplying order of operations to generate different numbers.
Dogs do PatternsUsing a real-life problem to develop an understanding of linear relationships.,

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