Masters Theses/Capstone Projects
ORCID
0009-0000-5543-0065
Date of Award
Spring 2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Curriculum and Instruction (MAE)
First Committee Member
Dr. Jeffrey Smith
Advisor
Dr. Jeffrey Smith
Second Committee Member
Dr. Daniel Cho
Third Committee Member
Dr. Diane Ross
Keywords
number talks, discourse, Algebra 1, quadratic expressions, math-talk, constructionism
Subject Categories
Algebra | Curriculum and Instruction | Education | Higher Education | Mathematics | Science and Mathematics Education | Secondary Education
Abstract
This project sought to develop a curriculum of Number Talks for use at the secondary level, specifically in an Algebra 1 class as a supplement to a unit on quadratic expressions. The project begins with a look at existing research on constructivism and social constructionism as well as the reforms in mathematics education informed by those learning theories. It then looks at calls for more discourse in the mathematics classroom as a part of these reform efforts, and the part Number Talks play in fostering discourse and mathematical thinking for students. The Number Talk curriculum includes a guide for implementing Number Talks, including ways to prepare for Number Talks and practices to foster discourse. It also includes seven specific Number Talk lesson plans with unique mathematical tasks, as well as questioning strategies, discourse strategies, and anticipated student thinking to accompany each Number Talk. The goal of this project was to address 21st century skills such as communication, collaboration, and problem-solving that teachers aim to instill in students through the use of Number Talks. The Number Talk curriculum presented in this project can be used by current secondary teachers, and there are opportunities to expand this research further by creating additional Algebra 1 Number Talks and Number Talks for other secondary courses.
Licensing Permission
Copyright, all rights reserved. Fair Use
Acknowledgement 1
1
Acknowledgement 2
1
Recommended Citation
Borger, Lindsay C., "Number Talks to Promote Discourse in the Algebra 1 Classroom: A Number Talk Curriculum Development for a Unit on Quadratic Expressions" (2025). Masters Theses/Capstone Projects. 136.
https://digitalcommons.otterbein.edu/stu_master/136
Included in
Algebra Commons, Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Higher Education Commons, Science and Mathematics Education Commons, Secondary Education Commons