What
While there’s been strong momentum for the science of reading, what about maths? Brendan will explore what the research reveals about effective maths instruction, highlighting the importance of aligning teaching with how learning happens. Across these sessions, he will go beyond summarising research—he’ll delve into practical implications, showing teachers how to bring these concepts to life in the classroom. Highly interactive, the sessions will offer plenty of opportunities for teachers to engage, practice, and respond. Brendan will also focus on implementing each key idea effectively within school settings.
Where
100% Online – This format increases accessibility. While we’ll miss the positive energy from in-person sessions, participants will still have ample opportunities to collaborate and network from the comfort of their home or office. 😊
You will be sent the Zoom link prior to the first day.
How
Option 1
We know that our working memory is limited and learning best occurs when it is spaced out over time. This course follows those principles and allows learners to access new bits of information in bite-sized chunks. By the end of each session, participants will leave with an actionable plan to implement. A workbook will be provided to support your learning over the five sessions.
Option 2
Spaced out over two jam-packed days, Brendan will cover a lot of content. However, by the end of each day, participants will leave with an actionable plan to implement. A workbook will be provided to support your learning over the two days.
Who
Option 1
This course is ideal for teachers who are new to a school and relative novices in their understanding of the science of learning. Brendan will space out specific key ideas over 15 weeks. It has also intentionally been scheduled for the afternoon so that schools don’t necessarily have to hire substitute teachers.
Option 2
This course is ideal for teachers with a foundational knowledge of the science of learning and explicit instruction, as the two days will be content-heavy. If teachers attending are new to the science of learning, they’ll be encouraged to be kind to themselves and focus on taking away one key element from each session. It’s recommended that newer participants join the 5 x 2-hour session format, which eases cognitive load.
When
Option 1
2pm-4pm AEDT
5 x 2 hour sessions spaced out over 15 weeks
1. Mon 3 March, 2025
2.Mon 31 March, 2025
3. Mon 5 May, 2025
4. Mon 19 May, 2025
5. Mon 9 June, 2025
Option 2
8.30am-2.30pm (Break 1: 10.30am-11am and Break 2: 1pm-1.30pm) AEDT
Day 1 (Tuesday 4 March, 2024)
Day 2 (Tuesday 25 March, 2024)
Overview of the program
Option 1
Session 1 (Mon 3 March):
This session will provide a brief overview of the science of learning before delving into Daily Reviews in maths. He’ll review the do’s and don’ts, common mistakes, and how to address them.
Session 2 (Mon 31 March):
Session 2 will unpack the key principles required for effective maths instruction and with a particular focus on why building fluency is vital and how teachers can go about doing it.
Session 3 (Mon 5 May):
Brendan will explain the significance of the Instructional Hierarchy for teachers, detailing the “what” and “when” of specific teaching tactics. He will explain what this looks like in the Modelling (I do) phase in maths.
Session 4 (Mon 19 May):
Session 4 will build on the previous session and look at various scaffolding techniques to support maths learning. Brendan will also describe how teachers can use the concrete-pictorial-abstract framework effectively.
Session 5 Mon 9 June):
This last session will look at what types of assessments teachers can use and how the data can be useful. Finally, he’ll explore word problems and how to strengthen students’ skills in approaching them.
Option 2
Session 1 (5 hours of learning): This session will provide a brief overview of the science of learning before delving into the key principles required for effective maths instruction. Brendan will explain the significance of the Instructional Hierarchy for teachers, detailing the “what” and “when” of specific teaching tactics. He will cover the Gradual Release of Responsibility model and various scaffolding techniques to support maths learning. This session will also describe how teachers can use the concrete-pictorial-abstract framework effectively.
Session 2 (5 hours of learning): In the second session, Brendan will cover Daily Reviews (and get teachers to participate in some retrieval practice), assessment practices, and strategies for building fluency. He’ll review the do’s and don’ts, common mistakes, and how to address them. Finally, he’ll explore word problems and how to strengthen students’ skills in approaching them.
Cost
Only $299 for 10 hours of learning.
FAQ
Can multiple participants attend from the same school?
Yes, but they all need to individually register (you’ll receive a 10% discount for 4 or more participants). They can watch the presentation together, but it is recommended that they all have individual mini-whiteboards.
Will it be recorded?
Yes, if you miss a session, you’ll receive a recording within 24 hours. However, attending live is recommended for maximum engagement.
Can I join if I'm located outside of Australia?
Absolutely! The event is fully online, so anyone with an internet connection can participate. Just be mindful of the time difference from AEDT (Australian Eastern Daylight Time).
Is there pre-reading or preparation required?
No mandatory preparation is needed, but reviewing basic concepts on the science of learning and explicit instruction can be helpful, especially for those newer to the topic.
Can I ask specific questions about my classroom or school challenges?
Yes! Brendan encourages participants to bring real-life examples and questions, and there will be Q&A periods and interactive discussions where he can provide tailored insights.
Will I get access to the presentation slides or resources after the session?
Yes, all participants will receive access to the presentation slides and other relevant resources after each session for further reference.
Will there be a certificate of completion?
Yes, participants will receive a certificate upon completing both days, which may contribute to professional development hours.