QAMTAC '99 Abstracts In Program Order

Wednesday 29th September

Thursday 30th September

Breakout Session #1

• Algebra - Why Do We Bother?
• Numeracy - Who Needs It?
• What's new from the USA?
• Mental Computation: Doing What Comes Naturally !
• Box Cars "Hands-On Maths Games
• Sharp EL-9600 Graphic Calculator - Beginners Session
• Numerical Methods in Maths B and Maths C
• Pythagoras and the Mathematics Method
• Practical Materials and Software for use with Secondary School Classes following the Normal Mathematics Curriculum.
• The Beginner's Guide to Using the Graphics Calculator in the Junior Classroom.
• Maths ? No Fear !
• The End of Mathematics - The Impact of Calculator Algebra Systems on Mathematics Teaching and Learning

Breakout Session #2

• - 1 x - 1 = 1 ; How Come ?
• Simulations for Understanding
• Arithmetic Before Algebra : examining student misconceptions
• Sight, Sounds and Symbols: Classroom Activities On The History Of Numbers
• Teaching Mathematics Using MSWLogo
• Understanding and Developing Measurement Concepts
• How to Teach Arithmetic to Prepare for Algebra
• Developing Confidence in Students to Tackle the Unfamiliar in Mathematics
• Retarded Motion Revisited
• Integrating Mathematical Modelling across the Senior B and C syllabus with the Graphics Calculator
• Using A Calculator To Learn About Sampling

Breakout Session #3

• Introducing the Graphics Calculator to the Mathematics Classroom; the Victorian Experience
• Enough or Too Much ? - The Use and Abuse of Graphics Calculators.
• Choosing and Using Technology - What Can Teachers Learn from Students' Learning ?
• Developing Young Children's Number Sense Using Calculators
• Location, Movement & Transformation in Teaching Geometry Aspects and Ideas for the New Syllabus
• A Hands-on Outcomes Approach to Area
• The Graphics Calculator and Year 8 Mathematics
• Metacognitive Approaches to Mathematics Education
• Introduction to Maple
• Inferential Statistics Can Work in Maths A & B
• Sharp EL-9600 Graphic Calculator - Beginners Session
• Casio Education Bursaries - Pre-service Teachers Report on Some Calculator Activities They Have Developed

WEDNESDAY 29 SEPTEMBER

MAIN KEYNOTE : 7:30 - 8:30 PM

Title of Session :

A Rich Pedagogical Soup – OBE, KLA's And New Basics And How They Might Make A Rich Taste Sensation

Type : Keynote

Target Audience : Plenary

Abstract: Mathematics Changes Gear. It must seem to some that in mathematics education we are always changing gear – and to little effect in helping students transfer power from the engine of mathematical knowledge to the personal wheels that track them through life.

The Queensland School Curriculum Council is currently engaged in preparing eight Key Learning Area syllabuses. As these roll out, schools will be faced with the task of preparing school curriculum programs based on the particular style of Outcomes-Based Education embodied in these syllabuses. In this address, it will be argued that both teachers and students will benefit in the next few years as schools develop school curriculum programs based on the QSCC syllabuses.

At the same time, in Queensland, the public education system is losing market share to non-state schools. There is danger that we might soon have a system of public education that caters only to lower socio-economic groups and to students with particular Types of educational problems. There are concerns about the possible impact of the shift on the quality of equity and the working of democracy in this state. One of many current initiatives within Education Queensland is to identify a new set of basics and to use it as a structure for providing curriculum guarantees at significant junctures in schooling across Years 1 to 9.

This address will grapple with a fundamental conundrum: "Why are so many kids street smart and yet school dumb? Some strengths and weaknesses of the current fascination with intended learning outcomes will be discussed. It will be argued that there is a need for a new way to describe and package basic education – a way that draws upon outcomes from various KLAs, including mathematics, without locking curriculum delivery into separate subject boxes which tend to exclude many students.

The limitations of stage-oriented educational psychologies will be touched upon. A new way of describing basics in terms of task outcomes will be proposed. Examples applicable at Year 6 and Year 9 will be shared. Finally, a recipe for cooking a sufficiently rich pedagogical soup will be offered, humbly, for your thoughtful consideration.

THURSDAY 30 SEPTEMBER

OFFICIAL OPENING : 9:00 - 9:20 AM

Name of Presenter : PAT MORAN, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton

Title of Session : Official Opening & Introduction Of Keynote Speaker

Target Audience : Plenary

MAIN KEYNOTE : 9:20 - 10:15 AM

Name of Presenter : Dr SUSIE GROVES, Associate Professor, School of Education, Deakin University

Title of Session :

Mathematics Classrooms Functioning as Communities of Inquiry

Type : Keynote

Target Audience : Plenary

Abstract: There is widespread agreement amongst mathematics educators that in order to achieve the goals of school mathematics, classrooms should function as communities of mathematical inquiry, where students construct powerful mathematical ideas through a process of confronting problematic situations, reflective thinking and reasoning, and participating in whole class dialogue and argumentation. Is this a realistic aim in the current climate of accountability in education, with its emphasis on benchmarks and test results ? How can teachers create a classroom climate in which inquiry, risk-taking and dialogue are regular features of classroom activity ? What are the characteristics of problematic situations which successfully promote such activity ? How can technology assist ? This session will attempt to address some of these issues and illustrate different ways in which classroom teachers facilitate inquiry and dialogue in their classrooms.

BREAKOUT SESSION #1 : 10:45 - 12:00

Name of Presenter : GRAHAM STEWART, Downlands College, Toowoomba

Title of Session :

Algebra - Why Do We Bother?

Type : Seminar paper

Target Audience : Secondary (lower)

Abstract: One of the "main" reasons for exposing our Junior Maths students to algebra is so that they can solve equations. This then allows them to solve application questions in their Senior Mathematics. But are algebraic techniques the best way to go ? Are there other and more efficient methods that can be used and if there are, why do we bother with these algebraic techniques?

Name of Presenter : RHONDA FARAGHER, Rockhampton Grammar School

Title of Session :

Numeracy - Who Needs It ?

Type : Seminar paper

Target Audience : Secondary (lower)

Abstract: Numeracy seems to have gained considerable prominence in recent years, especially in government education statements. But is it worth the fuss ? For at least 25 years, NAEP tests in the United States have revealed poor numeracy results. This is a long time, but the US is still functioning so does numeracy matter? If so, to whom? How does this influence what we teach in schools ? Join a forum to discuss questions such as these, aiming to come to a better understanding of numeracy and the implications for school mathematics.

Name of Presenter : MARJORIE CARSS, University of Queensland

Title of Session :

What's New From The USA ?

Type : Seminar paper

Target Audience : Secondary (lower & upper)

Abstract: Mathematics education has undergone dramatic changes in the last half-century. Many changes have not been for the best and after a brief flutter have disappeared from the classroom. The ability to discern the worthwhile from the worthless is highly desirable. Knowing what our colleagues in other countries are thinking, developing and trialing can help us see changes before they appear at our classroom door. Decisions about the adoption of new practices can be better informed and better executed. In this presentation, the latest projects and areas of interest from the US will be discussed. Delegates will have the opportunity to view new resources, be forewarned of new trends and learn of up-coming events.

Name of Presenter : DR CALVIN IRONS, Queensland University of Technology

Title of Session :

Mental Computation: Doing What Comes Naturally !

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Primary (lower to upper)

Abstract : Growing evidence suggests children need assistance in becoming confident with mental computation, a vital life skill. The ability to compute mentally does not stem from efficient paper and pencil algorithms. Rather, mental computation is more of a natural extension of number facts - fostered through frequent numbers sense discussions where children have the opportunity to describe their thinking. This session will explain and model number sense activities that can be used during and after the teaching of number facts to promote mental computation.

Name of Presenter : BOB or FIONA AFFLECK, EdSource, Western Australia

Title of Session :

Box Cars "Hands-On Maths Games"

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Primary (lower to upper)

Abstract: Teachers who attend this session will participate in practical 'hands-on' maths games that teach and reinforce specific maths skills. Attendees will leave the workshop with many games to use in the classroom the following day, and learn simple classroom management strategies which make it easy to incorporate a games program into the maths curriculum.

Name of Presenter : MIKE RISTOVSKY, Christ Church Grammar School, Western Australia

Title of Session :

Sharp EL-9600 Graphic Calculator - Beginners Session

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (upper)

Abstract: Graphic Calculators are an everyday part of the Western Australian classroom. The calculators are used in both the Year 12 internal and external exams and are an integral part of the upper school mathematics curriculum. This workshop will look at a few activities I have used in the classroom. Some topics covered will include: editing skills, basic graphing, slide shows, financial function, lists and lotto numbers and coordinate geometry. An open an inquisitive mind will be important.

Name of Presenter : BILL SIMPSON, Brisbane State High School

Title of Session :

Numerical Methods in Maths B and Maths C

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (upper)

Abstract: Numerical methods broaden the range of mathematical tools available to the student for the solving of problems. They provide opportunities for students to make judgements as to when their use is appropriate, justify the accuracy of answers and solve problems which are too tedious or beyond the students knowledge of algebraic methods. They provide rich opportunities for assignment work. This workshop will discuss numeric algorithms for

(a) definite integrals
(b) solving equations
(c) solving differential equations
(d) solving sets of simultaneous equations

Appropriate exercises, assignments and assessment items will be included Participants need a scientific calculator

Name of Presenter : PAUL DOOLEY, Fairholme College, Toowoomba

Title of Session :

Pythagoras and the Mathematics Method

Type : Computer Lab.

Target Audience : Secondary (lower & upper)

Abstract: The presenter is the author of recent articles on Pythagorean mathematics in "The Mathematics Teacher". These articles have attempted to give some insight into the way the Pythagoreans invented mathematics to explain their view of the Universe. These articles appear on the presenters web-site, supported by a collection of related activities which have been designed to introduce mathematical proof. The activities also introduce the "Mathematics Method" of : "Investigate ? conjecture ? prove/refute", in contrast to the "Scientific Method" of : "Observe ? hypothesise ? attempt to falsify".

In the workshop, participants will go on-line to work the activities and essays and consider how they can be used in the classroom.

Name of Presenter : ALAN ROGERSON, Melbourne Grammar School

Title of Session :

Practical Materials and Software for use with Secondary School Classes following the Normal Mathematics Curriculum.

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Upper Primary to Upper Secondary

Abstract: For the past three years every student in my school has been using their own personal Toshiba laptop equipped with an array of powerful software, much of which can be used for teaching the normal mathematics curriculum. This session will discuss the many software items that have been found useful: Excel, Geometer's Sketchpad, Graphmatica, Epsilon, Pace and so on. The many practical worksheets and project materials which have been trialed and used with students for the past three years will be available for inspection and discussion. In addition the interactive use of the Internet with maths classes will also be fully discussed, along with the revolutionary VSG (Virtual School for the Gifted) and the National Kahootz Project.

Name of Presenter : RICK BOYCE, Ferny Grove State High School

Title of Session :

The Beginner's Guide to Using the Graphics Calculator in the Junior Classroom.

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (lower)

Abstract: Rick will demonstrate an approach to teaching in the junior school using the Sharp EL9600,to help the inexperienced teacher get started. He will use the audience as his class and discuss ways to overcome initial "problems" we all have ,the common errors we make, and demonstrate the use of graphics calculators to introduce quadratic functions as well as some ideas in assessment. Teachers will also get an opportunity to use the O.H.P. projection unit with the EL 9600.

Name of Presenter : JUDITH SELBY, Bundaberg North State High School

Title of Session :

Maths ? No Fear !

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (lower)

Abstract: Maths? No Fear! is a Commonwealth funded initiative within the Indigenous Education Strategic Initiative Program, developed jointly by the Northern Territory Education Department and the Curriculum Corporation. The aim of the project is to : Support indigenous students in developing conceptual understandings of junior high school mathematics.

In 1998, I invited Steve Flavel, Open Learning Support Unit, Northern Territory Education Department, to present Maths? No Fear! to the staff of Bundaberg North SHS and neighbouring schools. This workshop was also run for ASSPA Committees in the Bundaberg area.

I am currently the only trainer in MNF in Queensland and am trialing one of the 40 Maths? No Fear! 'Working Mathematically' experiences with my Year 8 Extension Maths class. This trial will be the focus of the workshop.

Name of Presenter : VINCE GEIGER, Hillbrook Anglican School

Title of Session :

The End of Mathematics - The Impact of Calculator Algebra Systems on Mathematics Teaching and Learning

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Lower secondary, upper secondary

Abstract: A significant influence, in recent times, on the teaching and learning of mathematic has been the development of mathematically enabled technologies and applications (META). Many teachers have reported that mathematics specific software, for example, geometry packages and hand held technologies like graphing calculators have changed forever the dynamic they share with their students when they work together on mathematics. The changes recorded by these teachers will pale by comparison, however, with the impact that calculator algebra systems (CAS) is likely to make on curriculum, assessment and teaching/learning practice. This workshop will provide participants with hands on experience of CAS technologies from Casio, Hewlett Packard and Texas Instruments. After exploring the symbolic manipulation facilities of these devices, their long and short term impact on secondary mathematics will be discussed.

BREAKOUT SESSION #2 : 12:45 - 2:00 pm

Name of Presenter : ROB MCDOUGALL, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton

Title of Session :

- 1 x - 1 = 1 ; How Come ?

Type : Seminar paper

Target Audience : Upper primary / Lower secondary

Abstract: This presentation gives some background to the often taught but not-so-often well understood fact that the product of two negatives numbers is a positive number. We give some attention to the underlying patterns present in the integers and discuss the consequences. We also show how it can be explained with a video camera ! Suitable for anyone with suitably curious need to know why.

Name of Presenter : Dr. MICHAEL BULMER, University of Queensland

Title of Session :

Simulations for Understanding

Type : Seminar paper

Target Audience : Secondary (upper)

Abstract: It is often hard to give students a grasp of the "why" behind mathematics. Ideally students could do real physics experiments or follow real financial data, and see how the models fit the observations, but there are usually limitations to the scope of such activities. An alternative is to simulate the world, with a computer or by hand. In this session we will look at some simulations and the areas where they can be used.

Name of Presenter : STEPHEN NORTON, Queensland University of Technology

Title of Session :

Arithmetic Before Algebra : examining student misconceptions

Type : Seminar paper

Target Audience : Secondary (lower)

Abstract: The study of algebra has traditionally been on of the most problematic areas of study for secondary students. This paper examines arithmetic prerequisites for algebra study. A sample of secondary students who were about to begin a unit of algebra was tested for their ability to do the prerequisite arithmetic. Their responses were analysed and revealed that most of them were poorly equipped for algebra study. The patterns of their responses can be used to inform teaching strategies in preparing students for algebra study. The attributes of three very different mathematics software programs (The Learning Equation, Excel, and Maths Helper) are examined and discussed. Models for the use of each program are presented.

Name of Presenter : JAMES BURNETT, Queensland University of Technology

Title of Session :

Sight, Sounds and Symbols: Classroom Activities On The History Of Numbers

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Primary (upper)

Abstract: Investigating other number systems is a great way to learn the many features of our own Hindu-Arabic system. At the same time, the historical and cultural aspects associated with other number systems bring added interest and challenge to the study of numbers. This session will describe concrete (sight), spoken (sound) and written (symbolic) number systems from many parts of the world. Past methods of calculating will also be explored.

Name of Presenter : PAUL DOOLEY, Fairholme College, Toowoomba

Title of Session :

Teaching Mathematics Using MSWLogo

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Primary (upper) and Secondary (lower)

Abstract: MSWLogo is a fast, robust, FREE, implementation of LOGO for Windows95. It does all of other LOGO's and much more (- pop up input boxes, menu boxes, radio buttons, checkboxes, user-define windows, image manipulation, 3D animation, 3D GIF construction, port interfacing etc). MSWLogo can be downloaded from the web at http://www.softronix.com/ It is the perfect Windows computer language for beginners and has stood the test of time, being used extensively in Mathematics classes in the US and the UK for nearly 20 years.

If you have used LOGO before, come and test-drive MSWLogo; if you have never programmed before, you will be writing your first programme 10 minutes into the workshop. The workshop uses a series of Activities written by the presenter to introduce MSWLogo in the classroom.

Name of Presenter : JUDY HARTNETT, Catholic Education, Brisbane

Title of Session :

Understanding and Developing Measurement Concepts

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Primary (lower and upper)

Abstract: The understanding and development of measurement topics in mathematics is an area worthy of a closer look by many teachers. This workshop will look at what is measurement, a learning sequence for the teaching of measurement concepts, language of measurement and issues in the teaching of measurement.

Name of Presenter : TOM COOPER, Queensland University of Technology

Title of Session :

How to Teach Arithmetic to Prepare for Algebra

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Primary (upper)

Abstract: Algebra is one of the central topics of secondary mathematics and has provided great power to mathematics. As algebra is the generalisation of arithmetic, it should be possible to modify the teaching of arithmetic in the primary years to prepare students for algebra in the secondary years. This workshop provides primary teachers with practical classroom activities in arithmetic that are interesting in themselves and have the potential to assist the later learning of algebra. Participants will work hands-on with materials to experience the activities first hand. The focus will be on the meaning of operations, the equals sign and arithmetic activities of more than one operation and patterning, plus introducing a way of viewing arithmetic as change. The workshop will not be on pre-algebra but rather on arithmetic activities that lead to algebra. As such, some interesting and novel arithmetic activities will be experienced, activities that are worthwhile in their own right.

Name of Presenter : RICK BOYCE, Ferny Grove State High School

Title of Session :

Developing Confidence in Students to Tackle the Unfamiliar in Mathematics

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (lower & upper)

Abstract: This is the third in a series presented at QAMT conferences of the past two years. It will give teachers the opportunity to look at some new unfamiliar tasks. As well, the workshop will examine ways to model your thinking to students and to develop students' desire to find as many solutions as possible to each problem. It will also look at ways to encourage students to become "teachers" of their class mates and sharers of their thinking in mathematics.

Name of Presenter : BILL SIMPSON, Brisbane State High School

Title of Session :

Retarded Motion Revisited

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (upper)

Abstract: At the conference in 1998 a workshop was presented on some practical activity used to present the application of differential equations to retarded motion in particular the case of a parachute falling through air. This activity required high buildings and still air! This workshop will present the mathematics for an alternate indoor activity which may be useful -- a body falling through a fluid. Opportunity will be provided for participants to perform the activity and the appropriate mathematics investigated.

Name of Presenter : MILTON FULLER, Mathematics Learning Centre, CQU, Rockhampton

Title of Session :

Integrating Mathematical Modelling across the Senior B and C syllabus with the Graphics Calculator

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (upper)

Abstract: Concern has been expressed that mathematical modelling in the high school mathematics syllabus is often perceived by teachers as being a detached activity in the learning process. This concern is addressed in the objectives of the Queensland Senior Mathematics syllabuses. But how can integration be achieved ?This workshop/demonstration will illustrate, through hands on participation, how the graphics calculator can smooth the artificial boundary between students learning content and developing skills in the art and science of mathematical modelling. A class set of HP38G calculators and Aplets will be available for workshop participants.

Name of Presenter : BARRY KISSANE, Australian Institute of Education, Murdoch University

Title of Session :

Using A Calculator To Learn About Sampling

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (upper)

Abstract: The idea of taking a random sample and using it to make inferences about a population lies at the heart of statistical inference. In this hands-on workshop, we will explore some of the implications for learning about sampling of students having access to a modern graphics calculator such as the Casio CFX-9850G+. The focus will be on the ways in which the calculator can be used to take the samples and study the results to build an understanding of the mathematical ideas involved. No previous experience with a graphics calculator is needed.

BREAKOUT SESSION #3 : 2:30 - 3:45 pm

Name of Presenter : PETER JONES, Swinburne University of Technology

Title of Session :

Introducing the Graphics Calculator to the Mathematics Classroom; the Victorian Experience

Type : Seminar paper

Target Audience : Secondary (middle and upper)

Abstract: This paper will draw on the research that has been carried out to monitor the introduction of graphics calculators in Victoria. The areas range from student and teacher attitudes, curriculum, assessment, gender effects, implementation issues (including equity), and take-up rates.

Name of Presenter : JOHN McKINLAY, Carmel College, Brisbane

Title of Session :

Enough or Too Much ? - The Use and Abuse of Graphics Calculators.

Type : Seminar paper

Target Audience : Secondary (upper)

Abstract: This presentation aims to initiate discussion regarding the appropriate versus inappropriate use of GC's. When is access to these devices vital and when is it optional? We know of their benefits but is there a negative impact? If, as many suggest, it is a matter of time before GCS with symbolic manipulators are in the hands of all students, what will we as maths educators be willing to de-emphasise in the curriculum ?

Name of Presenter : MERRILYN GOOS, University of Queensland & Vince GEIGER, Hillbrook Anglican School

Title of Session :

Choosing and Using Technology - What Can Teachers Learn from Students' Learning ?

Type : Seminar paper

Target Audience : Secondary (lower & upper)

Abstract: The increasing integration of technology tools such as computers and graphing calculators into secondary school mathematics classrooms raises questions about the relevance of curriculum content, teaching approaches, and assessment practices that remain rooted in pre-technology times. Professional development responses to these challenges have focussed on developing teachers' competence and confidence with using technology, and on devising technology based tasks for classroom use. However, we argue in this paper that a focus on student learning provides a more powerful stimulus for teacher professional growth, which we illustrate by drawing on our experience of working with senior secondary students in a technology rich classroom. In particular, we highlight the opportunities for choosing and using mathematics that arise when students have access to a range of technology tools, and we discuss implications for teaching and assessment practice.

Name of Presenter : SUSIE GROVES, Deakin University

Title of Session :

Developing Young Children's Number Sense Using Calculators

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Primary (lower)

Abstract: This workshop will explore ways in which calculators can be used to develop young children' number sense. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in hands-on activities as well as watch video excerpts of calculator use in infant classrooms. The focus is on using calculators to provide a rich mathematical environment for children to explore.

Name of Presenter : TOM COOPER & ANNETTE BATURO, Queensland University of Technology

Title of Session :

Location, Movement & Transformation in Teaching Geometry Aspects and Ideas for the New Syllabus

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Primary (upper)

Abstract: Modifications to the existing mathematics syllabus, the Year 3, 5 and 7 tests and early directions in the new syllabus are all pointing to increased emphasis in space and shape, notably in location, movement and transformation. This workshop will be designed so that participants can experience, hands-on with actual materials, examples of creative and effective practical classroom activities in space and shape.

The workshop will particularly look at :

paper folding, angle wheels, geoboards and sub-concept introduction of line angle and shape ; silva compasses, pacing and determining location by polar coordinates miras, tracing paper, and line and rotational symmetry activities and relationships tracing paper, graph paper and flips, slides and turns activities and relationships As well as these activities, the workshop will model effective teaching approaches to space and shape.

Name of Presenter : PAUL SUTTON, Ingham State High School

Title of Session :

A Hands-on Outcomes Approach to Area

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Upper Primary to Lower Secondary

Abstract: The typical approach to teaching area aims to get to all the various formulas for calculating area as quickly as possible then practicing using them. Ask these students to make a square metre and you will always get a square. Ask how many square centimetres are in the square metre and you will usually be told 100. Why? This activity based workshop is ready to use on Monday in your class, will help you and your students understand the area concept better and show we really only need one formula for area with a couple of variations. An outcomes approach to assessing is overlaid on the activities.

Name of Presenter : MILTON FULLER, Mathematics Learning Centre, Central Queensland University

Title of Session :

The Graphics Calculator and Year 8 Mathematics

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Lower Secondary

Abstract: This demonstration/workshop will illustrate how the graphics calculator can support the introduction of algebra at year 8 level. The aim is to show how the HP38G calculator, with Aplets, can assist students to develop the concept of linearity. Problems involving motor vehicle stopping distances and the postage stamp problem will provide the background for the presentation.

Name of Presenter : DON KERR, Zeno Educational Consultancy, Brisbane

Title of Session :

Metacognitive Approaches to Mathematics Education

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Primary (upper) and Secondary (lower & upper)

Abstract: Teaching and learning in the Mathematics classroom often centres around the teacher. Understanding and the development of thinking skills requires active learners who take control of their education. Metacognition is about empowering students by giving them the personal knowledge, awareness and skills to take responsibility for their learning.

In this workshop, some strategies for achieving a "metacognitive classroom" will be demonstrated.

Name of Presenter : Dr MICHAEL BULMER, University of Queensland

Title of Session :

Introduction to Maple

Type : Computer lab.

Target Audience : Secondary (upper)

Abstract: This session will give you hands-on experience using a "computer algebra system". The aim is to give you a feel for what they are capable of and where it may make educational sense to use them. Complete beginners are most welcome.

Name of Presenter : LEW JOHNSON, Emmanuel College

Title of Session :

Inferential Statistics Can Work in Maths A & B

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (upper)

Abstract: The aim of this workshop would be to show the steps used in teaching inferential statistics so as it can become understandable and useful to both Maths A & B students. Participants will be led through some basic exercises in inferential statistics and shown how to correct some of the most important misconceptions both teachers and students have.

Name of Presenter : MIKE RISTOVSKY , Christ Church Grammar School, Western Australia

Title of Session :

Sharp EL-9600 Graphic Calculator - Beginners Session

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (upper)

Abstract: Graphic Calculators are an everyday part of the Western Australian classroom. The calculators are used in both the Year 12 internal and external exams and are an integral part of the upper school mathematics curriculum. This workshop will look at a few activities I have used in the classroom. Some topics covered will include : creating lists and sequences, refining and finding solutions and a look at exam type questions. All interested welcome !

Name of Presenter : QUT & UQ PRE-SERVICE TEACHERS

Title of Session :

Casio Education Bursaries - Pre-service Teachers Report on Some Calculator Activities They Have Developed

Type : Workshop

Target Audience : Secondary (lower & upper)

Abstract: Casio in conjunction with QAMT, and the Universities in Queensland, have launched the Casio bursaries, an undergraduate development program. In this workshop, students from Queensland University of Technology and University of Queensland will work in pairs to demonstrate the use of graphics calculators and technologies with self chosen mathematical topics. The students, Robyn Lake and John Christie from QUT and Matteo Parente and Anna Wethereld from UQ, have worked closely with their lecturers. Teachers attending the conference will be able to learn from their future colleagues research and graphics calculator demonstrations. The workshop will be chaired by Debbie Taylor, Educational Support Manager for Casio.

Email: qamt@qut.edu.au