2011-12 School In-Service Training Grants (9-12) Recipient

SPECTRUM: Strategic Practices Engaging Classroom Teachers' Reform of Urban Mathematics 

 The purpose of SPECTRUM is to effectuate instructional improvement through the initiation of research-based practices which will influence the improved quality of teaching and increased student achievement. The development of specific instructional strategies coupled with well-established routines and dispositions will be adopted to increase the capacity of the teaching corps to deliver lessons which reflect desired levels of rigor; to foster interactions which inspire student motivation and engagement; and to build connections, meaning and understanding of principles and procedures students need to command in order to engage in STEM applications. The analysis of instruction characterized by project-based learning along with alternative student assessments will help to gauge the extent to which students are motivated to learn and display the dispositions which encourage accelerated achievement. Use of instructional technology will help broaden the scope of teachers' access to resources, reduce teacher isolation and better ensure that they are supported in viable learning communities. Student learning will be enhanced as teachers create opportunities for their deeper thinking and employ varied resources to help form a stronger picture of students' strengths and capabilities.