SIR Mathematics Investigation Abstract
C.Y.C.L.E.: GIRLS LOVE MATH TOO
Presenters:
Kim Barchenger, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 W. Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; yoda02@imsa.edu
Mia Layne, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 W. Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; vellia@imsa.edu
Joyce Pulphus, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, 1500 W. Sullivan Road, Aurora, IL 60506; jazzy02@imsa.edu
Mentors:
Connie Van Brunt, Executive Director, Community Youth Creative Learning Experience, 1111 N. Wells, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60610
George C. Colone, Associate Executive Director, Community Youth Creative Learning Experience, 1111 N. Wells, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60610
Abstract:
The purpose of our mentorship was to gain an understanding of how to interact with primary students, as well as learn and understand how primary students gain knowledge of mathematical concepts. Our particular interest, was to observe how well female students interact in a single sex math class. Could girls become confident enough to explore and show their knowledge in a variety of areas being taught in this environment? As we venture through this field we come up with more and more questions related to teaching. We sought to understand these questions by becoming "Wizards" in the Community Youth Creative Learning Experience (CYCLE) program. Over the course of the year we tried to maintain continuity by having activities that tie together. We started each lab with a warm-up game, grabbing their attention, and reviewing what had been previously covered. Following that, we began to teach a new lesson, handing out worksheets. We have found that the girls feel confident answering questions, and are willing to strive for the correct answer, even if they don't understand the questions at first. Overall we found that we succeeded in making the girls feel comfortable, and confident in expressing their knowledge of mathematical concepts.