Conference synopsis_MAVCON2026 - Flipbook - Page 131
G26 ALGEBRA LIFE HACKS
Sub-category: Mathematical content and concepts
Chris Wetherell, Australian Maths Trust
Y7 - Y12
If you know about area and perimeter, then you can solve
quadratic equations. This is not a new idea. But if you also
know Pythagoras’ theorem, then you are ready for the
weirdest way to avoid doing algebra that you’ve seen all week!
Prepare to tackle some senior-level challenges using only Year
8 skills.
Key takeaways:
1. Interconnectedness of topics across the curriculum,
specifically geometry, measurement and simultaneous
quadratic equations.
G27 YOU’VE FOUND THE LESSON...
NOW HOW DO YOU TEACH IT?
Sub-category: Mathematical content and concepts
Jessica Kurzman,
F - Y10
A well-designed lesson plan gives you a strong head start,
and with the growing popularity of pre-made lesson plans,
teachers are saving valuable time in planning and preparation.
However, the real impact on student learning comes from
knowing how to teach it most effectively. This workshop
moves beyond simply following a lesson plan to developing
a deeper understanding of the mathematical ideas that
underpin it, so you can shape each lesson into exactly what is
needed for your students.
2. Insight into the research underpinning this process and how
it enhances teaching effectiveness and student learning.
3. Hands-on experience applying the process to adapt and
refine lesson plans for immediate classroom use.
G28 TEACHING AT FULL THROTTLE
Sub-category: Digital technologies
Sherwyn Saldanha and Shelley Pendlebury, John Paul
College
Y5 - Y12
Whether you are completely new to integrating technology
into mathematics and STEM or already beginning to explore
its possibilities, this hands-on workshop will help you take the
next step. We will share how our own Rover journey began by
borrowing equipment and starting small, demonstrating that
you do not need to be an expert to get started.
Participants will experience practical activities including
Turtle-style programming, Rover races, graphing and
transformations, with examples drawn from Year 7 through to
senior secondary mathematics and STEM classes.
Plenty of time will be provided to experiment with the
technology, build confidence and ask questions. Participants
will leave with practical ideas and resources to support their
own Rover journey.
Key takeaways:
1. Gain confidence using MAV Rovers, regardless of prior
experience.
2. Explore classroom-ready activities linking coding and
mathematics.
Participants will explore practical strategies to build the
content knowledge needed to teach pre-made lessons
with confidence. You’ll walk away with actionable ideas and
strategies that can be applied immediately, helping you
strengthen your own understanding and bring lessons to
life with clarity, purpose, and impact for improved student
learning.
3. Learn practical ways to start and grow a Rover program in
your own school.
Key takeaways:
Sub-category: Mathematical content and concepts
1. A clear understanding of a practical process for
strengthening pre-made lesson plans to suit your own
classroom context.
Michael Minas, Love Maths
F - Y6
G29 MASTERING MULTIPLICATIVE
THINKING: STRATEGIES FOR EVERY
CLASSROOM
Multiplicative thinking is a critical foundation for success,
underpinning much of the content our students will
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