Author

Ethan Somes

Term

Fall 2022

Capstone

Capstone Project

Degree Name

MAT

Facilitator(s)

Melissa Erickson and Patty Born

Content Expert

James McVeety

Abstract

Mathematics has a reputation for being abstract, complex, and for many, incomprehensible. In schools, it is common for students to dislike math and to feel self-conscious about their abilities or performance. The typical structure of math assessments, namely tests that are time constricted and highly stressful, creates a cycle of poor performance, disengagement, and high anxiety. This suggests that a new way of assessing students is needed, one that shows the fuller picture of students' math capabilities. This leads to the research question: how can the use of portfolios in math class help students begin to heal from trauma or anxiety related to mathematics, while fostering resilience and flexible thinking skills? Topics explored include the causes and symptoms of math anxiety and trauma, as well as trauma informed teaching practices. The use of portfolios draws inspiration from an approach to mathematics education known as Habits of Mind, which emphasizes flexible thinking and problem solving skills rather than procedural calculations. Portfolios offer a holistic way of assessing students' mathematical thinking and practices, while also utilizing a cycle of feedback and revision to help students reflect and see their own potential for growth. The culmination of this project is an outline for how portfolios can be implemented in a high school classroom, a rubric to assess student’s habits in the classroom, a rubric to assess student deliverables, as well as two surveys to gauge students feelings and attitudes around math. The goal of these materials is to facilitate open and meaningful discussion with students about their problem solving, and to document and celebrate their growth in both mathematical skill and confidence.

Project Type

Curriculum

Keywords

Assessment, Grades/ Student Performance, Mathematics, Teachers/ Teaching

dc_type

text

dc_publisher

DigitalCommons@Hamline

dc_format

application/pdf

dc_source

School of Education Student Capstone Projects

Included in

Education Commons

Share

COinS