Like our other language instruction study circles, Integrating Language & Numeracy involves reading a selection of relevant research and completing various classroom-based reflection and peer observation tasks. During the 3 face-to-face meetings of 3 hours each, participants discuss the readings and tasks and explore together how research can inform classroom practice.

Objectives

Three main objectives shape this study circle, guiding participants to:

• Articulate a big-picture sense of numeracy and English learning in MN ABE and identify their current roles(s) in this work.
• Begin integrating numeracy into a language course with meaningful focus, coherence, and rigor.
• Apply classroom activities that support language and numeracy.

Participating teachers:

• explore their own place within the field of language and numeracy instruction and the perspectives of their cohort members
• learn about and practice using the College & Career Readiness Standards (CCRS) to create meaningful numeracy progressions within the various contexts of an English language learning course
• create or adapt classroom activities to teach numeracy concepts, supported by intentional language instruction
• are observed and do one observation of a cohort member with the purpose of practicing integrating language and numeracy and having the opportunity for feedback and reflection

Benefits of participation

Participants earn 20 CEUs plus a $75 stipend for completing all the requirements for a study circle, including attendance at all 3 meetings. Priority for slots is given to current paid staff of MN ABE programs.

Here is what some of our participants have said about their experience:

• “Really thought the research literature was relevant and interesting to discuss with others. Great to have the research organized in a way that is easy to get to and can be very useful beyond the study circle.”
• “I liked hearing what other people are doing in their classrooms and what is working for them. It was informative and also inspiring!”
• “I felt this was one of the most valuable professional development activities I have ever had. There have been a lot of them, but this is and will remain a high point going forward.”

Interested in participating in a study circle?

Interested in participating in a study circle? Contact Lindsey Cermak, ATLAS Numeracy Coordinator.

You are also welcome to make use of our Integrating Language & Numeracy Study Circle Facilitator Guide, which provides step-by-step suggestions for conducting study circles no matter where your program is based.