Rick A. Hudson began his career as a high school mathematics teacher and now serves as Professor and Chair of Mathematical Sciences at the University of Southern Indiana. His research focuses on the teaching and learning of data analysis and statistics and issues in the professional education of teachers. He also serves of the Vice President of Professional Learning for the Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators. Joe Champion is a Professor of Mathematics at Boise State University. He teaches mathematics and statistics courses and works with K-12 teachers. Dr. Champion leads several funded projects in schools, with a focus on effective instruction in grades 6-8, especially for building students' modeling and data analysis literacy.
Students in Grades 6-8 are developing greater capacity for problem solving, and are beginning to develop as proportional reasoners. They seek more independence and their relationships with peers mature. Modern Math Tasks to Provoke Transformational Thinking presents carefully crafted tasks that nurture multi-disciplinary literacies including environmental, financial, and civic. From climate change to systemic injustices, the need for multidisciplinary problem-solving skills has never been greater. These innovative tasks bridge the gap between traditional siloed education and the real-world problems we encounter daily. By emphasizing mathematical modeling, data analysis, and cross-disciplinary thinking, they empower students to tackle complex issues and become global citizens ready to shape a brighter future. Topics and Tasks include: Investigating Trends in the World Around Us: Using Data and Statistics to Examine the Environment What Makes Wages Fair? Understanding Fair Compensation Through Expressions and Equations How Can We Use Time to Support Wellness? Examining Time Data Using Number Systems How Can We Effect Change? Learning About Advocacy With Ratios and Proportions Through the Ages: A Historical Look at Art With Geometric Shapes