This work seeks to contribute to the national dialogue regarding best practices in teaching middle school mathematics. The authors are committed to improving mathematics achievement and opportunities for students whose inherited circumstances place them at a perceptible disadvantage. Most refer to said students as “risks.” We hold the position that these students, irrespective of their backgrounds, possess Hidden or Unmet Potential and the unveiling of their potential can be accelerated when they are exposed to high-quality mathematics teaching. This book is a practitioner’s guide to creative mathematics activities centered on algebraic, proportional, and geometric reasoning aligned with mathematics standards. This approach has the potential to accelerate the mathematical confidence and accentuate the mathematical proficiencies of students.
This book shares nine lessons designed to foster mathematical reasoning in middle school students and research on how to support teachers in creating such lessons.
