So, what have you done in this session?

• In Part A, you observed connections, as a middle school classroom tackled the Building Viewpoints problem.
• In Part B, you explored your own mathematical connections as you worked with the 3D Figures/Isometric Dot Paper activity.
• In Part C, you looked at a variety of strategies you can use with your students, as the Connections Standard was defined.
• In Part D, you applied what you had learned in the session so far by solving the Using Hexominos to Manufacture Boxes problem, watching students solve it, and thinking about how you would teach it in your own classroom.
• In Part E, you wrote your own lesson plan as a way to evaluate what you had learned.

You have seen different types of connections we want to help students make. You have seen the advantages of having students connect new topics to previously studied topics in order to develop a deep understanding of the mathematics. You've looked at some examples of the interconnectedness of mathematical topics at the middle grades. You've become aware of ways to integrate mathematical concepts into other subjects in the middle grades. You have also considered the connections of mathematics as we apply it to various careers and areas outside the classroom. It is important for students to appreciate the usefulness of mathematics in a variety of settings. Your own understanding of the processes involved in connections will make the difference in how well you can help your students master these processes.

But of course, things wouldn't be complete without another, you guessed it, journal. This final journal is different, however, and will mark your completion of the session.

  Completing your journal