CATCA 2025: Full Schedule

Welcome to CATCA 2025! We are excited to see you soon but here are a few reminders...

1. Adding a session to your schedule does not guarantee your attendance. Room capacities are in effect and sessions will be accessed on a physical first come, first served basis on the day of the event. Alternatively, If you are ’Waitlisted", this only means that there are a number of interested delegates beyond the capacity limits for this session - get there early to secure your seat!

2. As we attempt to make CATCA 2025 as amazing as possible, there may be changes made to the schedule up until the day before - Please check your schedule for any time or venue changes or possible cancellations.

3. Please check session description for possible fees associated with materials for some of the art sessions. These will be paid directly to the presenter.

4. Do remember that there might be sessions not at our main venue, do look carefully where the session is at.

A floor plan showing the rooms in RDP that we’re using for convention is available here.

All pre-recording videos will be up until May 31st.

9:00am MST

Place Value is More Than Numbers in a Column!

Thursday February 20, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST

RDP Room 2302

How do you really know what your students understand about Place Value? It is such an important concept that we spend time developing over a child's education. This session will look at what the key aspects of place value are and how ALL 6 need to be mastered for us to claim our students KNOW Place Value. We will work alongside manipulatives and examples to highlight the aspects and share an assessment tool that you can use with your students to check for understanding. Get ready to roll up your sleeves!

Speakers

Chris Zarski

Designer of Professional Learning, ARPDC

Chris is an Educational Consultant supporting Alberta teachers as a Designer of Professional Learning with the Alberta Provincial Learning Consortium (APLC). She has served as a Teacher, Administrator, Curriculum Director of Curriculum, Examiner with Alberta Education, and Author... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST
RDP Room 2302

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Assessment (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

9:00am MST

Escape Boredom: Engaging students through the use of escape rooms

Thursday February 20, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST

RDP Room 1503

Escape rooms have become a popular source of entertainment as well as a vehicle for team building and collaboration; additionally they have begun to catch the eyes of educators as a potential tool for collaborative learning activities in classrooms. Escape room players solve puzzles and decipher codes in order to solve their way out of the room. In this session, teachers will walk through example escape room puzzles, using locks, codes keys and riddles that can be adapted for their own classroom activity. This session will also cover how gamification can increase engagement and inclusion as well as how to source items to set up your escape room, sample puzzles and potential curriculum connections. No escape room experience required.

Speakers

Daniela Carbajal

Outreach Coordinator, WISEST

Daniela Carbajal is the Outreach Coordinator at WISEST, Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science and Technology, based at the University of Alberta. Daniela has a BSc and is finishing a BA in Native Studies. She focuses and encourages grass-roots community work and research to promote... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST
RDP Room 1503

Science (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

10:20am MST

What Should Every Junior High Teacher Know About the New Grades 4-6 Math Curriculum?

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST

RDP Room 2302

So, you aren’t teaching a new curriculum yet but what have Grades 4-6 students learned that you already do? How might that change what a current 7 or 8 classroom could look like? Come join a fast paced session on what’s new - old and somewhere in-between. Try some of the manipulatives that students will be familiar with - how might you implement these in your class now? How might assessment look different? Put your track shoes on and join in the exploration.
Participants will receive access to support documents outlining the changes.

Speakers

Chris Zarski

Designer of Professional Learning, ARPDC

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST
RDP Room 2302

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

10:20am MST

Shake Up Your Operational Fluency

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST

RDP Room 2303

Come prepared to shake rattle and roll and get your operational fluency practice rolling with Box Car favorite games and strategies for practicing the following concepts: basic addition and subtraction facts including doubles, make 10, using number lines, commutative and associative properties, multiplication basic facts including square facts, using arrays, patterns and skip counting, commutative and associative properties. Games are easy to differentiate and can be used whole class, small group or in centers. Games will integrate regular dice, math shakers, and multi-sided dice, highly engaging manipulatives for all students. Handout will contain games, concept skill checklists for assessment. Be ready for a fast paced, hands-on session!

Speakers

John Felling

presenter, Box Cars And One Eyed Jacks

The workshops and seminars John Felling presents are engaging, informative, fun, and hands-on. In his workshops, teachers learn a variety of games and activities (new ones every year), closely tied to provincial curriculum standards. The games and activities presented integrate easily... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST
RDP Room 2303

Special Education (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3)

11:40am MST

Games Aren't Just for the Young - They Teach!

Thursday February 20, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST

RDP Room 2302

Getting students excited about their learning and engaging them are great stepping stones to having them deepen their own learning. A well crafted engagement activity can serve as a replacement for the traditional set of questions in a textbook. Your presenters both taught PAT/DIP courses so we understand the value of time and the pressures of getting through it all! Come join us as we share some activities that you can take back and implement in your own classrooms.

Speakers

Chris Zarski

Designer of Professional Learning, ARPDC

Candace Ketsa

Thursday February 20, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
RDP Room 2302

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

11:40am MST

Mathematical Marvels

Thursday February 20, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST

RDP Room 2600

Discover the enchanting side of mathematics in a session designed to transform even the most reluctant math enthusiasts into ardent admirers. "Mathematical Marvels" is not your typical math gathering; it's a celebration of joy and beauty woven into the very fabric of numbers, patterns, and shapes.

I assure you that even if you have harbored a dislike for mathematics, this session is crafted to bring a smile to your face and make you see math in a new light.

No need for advanced degrees or complicated formulas—just bring your curiosity and an open mind. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the beauty of math, and leave with a newfound appreciation for the elegance and playfulness that numbers can offer. Let's prove that math can be a source of joy and wonder for everyone!

Speakers

Dave Martin

ATA Mathematics Council

Dave Martin has a Masters of Mathematics, a Degree in Education, and a love for prime numbers. He has been teaching for 12 years, during which time, he was nominated for Teacher of Excellence in Alberta, has spoken across North America, and has successfully removed grades in most... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
RDP Room 2600

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

11:40am MST

Les mathématiques en mouvement

Thursday February 20, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST

RDP Room 1000 (Small Gym-Kevin Sirois)

Cette session dynamique vise à engager les participants dans des activités mathématiques ludiques qui mettent l’accent sur le déplacement physique et le développement de la flexibilité mathématique. Cet atelier a été conçu pour encourager le développement des compétences mathématiques tout en favorisant l’acquisition de vocabulaire dans une langue additionnelle.Les participants seront immergés dans une série d’activités interactives qui stimuleront leur réflexion mathématique tout en les encourageant à se déplacer et à interagir avec leurs pairs. Nul besoin d’être expert en mathématiques pour participer à cet atelier! Chaque activité est soigneusement conçue pour être à la fois amusante et éducative, offrant aux participants une expérience d’apprentissage holistique et sécurisante.Au cours de cette session, les participants auront l’occasion de :• Explorer des problèmes mathématiques sous forme de jeux et de défis qui nécessitent des déplacements physiques et des interactions avec leur environnement.• Renforcer leurs compétences en résolution de problèmes, en collaboration et en communication en travaillant en équipes.• Utiliser et élargir leur vocabulaire en langue additionnelle tout en interagissant avec des instructions et des questions spécifiquement conçues pour cet objectif.This dynamic session aims to engage participants in playful mathematical activities that emphasize physical movement and the development of mathematical flexibility. This workshop has been designed to encourage the development of mathematical skills while promoting the acquisition of vocabulary in an additional language.Participants will be immersed in a series of interactive activities that will stimulate their mathematical thinking while encouraging them to move around and interact with their peers. You don't need to be a math expert to take part in this workshop! Each activity is carefully designed to be both fun and educational, offering participants a holistic and safe learning experience.During this session, participants will have the opportunity to :- Explore mathematical problems in the form of games and challenges that require physical movement and interaction with their environment.- Strengthen their problem-solving, collaboration and communication skills by working in teams.- Use and expand their additional language vocabulary while interacting with instructions and questions specifically designed for this purpose.

Speakers

Elyse Morin

Learning Network, APLC et le Consortium Francophone de l'Alberta

Élyse est une enseignante dynamique et créative avec plus de 20 ans d’expérience en immersion française, en enseignement virtuel et en coaching pédagogique. Apprenante passionnée, elle reste à jour avec les dernières recherches et aime créer et partager des ressources... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
RDP Room 1000 (Small Gym-Kevin Sirois)

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K) | Science (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K) | French & International Languages (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K)

11:40am MST

Hands-on Minds On: The Intersection of Trades and STEM in K-12 Education

Thursday February 20, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST

RDP Room 2303

Dive into an Alberta-based STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) initiative in partnership with Lethbridge Polytechnic that enriches K-12 education with practical trades experience. The session features an interactive opportunity for you to be in your students’ shoes to explore and engage with our free digital and hands-on resources. We'll start with a brief overview of the project and its connections to the mathematics and science curricula and industry. You will then spend the majority of the session interacting with the activities and resources that can be immediately implemented into your practice. We will seek your feedback on classroom application and potential resources. You’ll leave better equipped to answer the question of “Why do I need to learn this?” by connecting mathematics and science concepts to students’ everyday lives.

Speakers

Lethbridge Polytechnic, Your Partner in STEM

Post-Secondary Institution

Thursday February 20, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
RDP Room 2303

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Technology (TQS/LQS 2), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Science (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3)

1:00pm MST

GeoBoards, Time and Fractions - What the Heck Do These Have in Common???

Thursday February 20, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

RDP Room 2302

Just keep rolling up those sleeves and dive in one more time to see how the manipulatives of GeoBoards and Time can connect together. How will we tie fractions into this? Join us and find out!

Speakers

Chris Zarski

Designer of Professional Learning, ARPDC

Candace Ketsa

Thursday February 20, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
RDP Room 2302

Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

1:00pm MST

Number Talks in the Middle School Math Classroom

Thursday February 20, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

RDP Room 2305

In collaboration with three school divisions in Alberta and funded by the Research Partnerships Program of Alberta Education, Number Talks were implemented over four months in Grades 4 - 8. Our goal was to determine if the implementation of Number Talks would serve to increase the competence and confidence of students in their numeracy skills. We had approximately 30 teachers and 300 students participate in the research project. This session will present the research findings and the implications for teacher practice.

Speakers

Richelle Marynowski

Professor, University of Lethbridge

Dr. Richelle Marynowski is a Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Lethbridge. Her background includes 14 years of teaching secondary mathematics and 13 years teaching at the University of Lethbridge. Her research foci include teacher professional growth and development... Read More →

Sandy Bakos

Assistant Professor, University of Lethbridge

Thursday February 20, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
RDP Room 2305

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Educational Research (TQS/LQS 2), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

1:00pm MST

Enseigner les fractions autrement

Thursday February 20, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

RDP Room 1503

Les fractions sont souvent perçues comme l’une des notions les plus complexes à comprendre et à enseigner, en grande partie à cause d’un enseignement axé sur des procédures plutôt que sur la compréhension conceptuelle. Cet atelier explore des approches pratiques et interactives pour favoriser une compréhension profonde des fractions, de la 1re à la 6e année. À travers des activités ludiques et des discussions enrichissantes, les enseignant·es découvriront des stratégies pour accompagner leurs élèves dans l’appropriation de ce concept clé des mathématiques. Fractions are often perceived as one of the most complex concepts to understand and teach, largely due to teaching that focuses on procedures rather than conceptual understanding. This workshop explores practical, interactive approaches to fostering a deep understanding of fractions, from grades 1 to 6. Through playful activities and enriching discussions, teachers will discover strategies to support their students in appropriating this key mathematical concept.

Speakers

Elyse Morin

Learning Network, APLC et le Consortium Francophone de l'Alberta

Thursday February 20, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
RDP Room 1503

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Science (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | French & International Languages (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

2:20pm MST

Unlocking Potential: Integrating Google Gemini for Effective Teaching

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST

RDP Room 2602

In this session, educators will delve into the evolving landscape of educational technology with a focus on integrating Google Gemini into the classroom. Participants will gain hands-on experience with Gemini’s innovative digital tools designed to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. This beginner to intermediate session will cover practical applications, including the integration of Gemini’s interactive platforms and digital resources into various curricula. We will also explore strategies for fostering digital literacy and critical thinking in students, ensuring ethical and effective use of technology in the classroom.

Speakers

Gilles Theriault

Teacher, Red Deer Public School District

Gilles is teaching at École Lindsay Thurber Comp. H.S. in Red Deer. He provides workshops to educators. He has conducted professional development for over two decades. He's a Google Certified Trainer. He's also a recognized Adobe Train the Trainer and an Apple Teacher. Gilles is... Read More →

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
RDP Room 2602

2:20pm MST

Supporting Numeracy Development in Secondary Mathematics

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST

RDP Room 2305

The focus on numeracy development is often seen to be complete by the end of elementary school. Numeracy continues to develop throughout one's educational career and into adulthood. This session will provide a collection of numeracy development strategies that are designed to support the enhancement of numeracy development at the secondary level. Be prepared to be actively engaged in thinking numerically!

Speakers

Richelle Marynowski

Professor, University of Lethbridge

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
RDP Room 2305

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

2:20pm MST

Un livre 3 matières et plusieurs idées organisatrices

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST

RDP Room 1503

Rejoignez-nous pour une session ludique et pratique dédiée aux enseignants de la maternelle à la 3e année, où vous découvrirez comment exploiter le potentiel d’un album jeunesse pour enseigner des concepts clés en français, en maths et en sciences. Join us for a fun, hands-on session dedicated to K-3 teachers, where you'll discover how to harness the potential of a children's album to teach key concepts in French, math and science.

Speakers

Elyse Morin

Learning Network, APLC et le Consortium Francophone de l'Alberta

Thursday February 20, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
RDP Room 1503

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K) | Science (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K) | French & International Languages (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K)

9:00am MST

Leveraging Magic School AI for Enhanced Learning

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST

RDP Room 2501

In this dynamic session, educators will delve into the evolving landscape of educational technology with a focus on integrating Magic School into the classroom. Participants will gain hands-on experience with Magic School innovative digital tools designed to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. This beginner to intermediate session will cover practical applications, including the integration of Magic School interactive platforms and digital resources into various curricula. We will also explore strategies for fostering digital literacy and critical thinking in students, ensuring ethical and effective use of technology in the classroom.

Speakers

Gilles Theriault

Teacher, Red Deer Public School District

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST
RDP Room 2501

9:00am MST

Math Vocabulary - What Exactly is the Correct Term in Our New Math Grades 7-10?

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST

RDP Room 2302

So many of the terms we use each day in mathematics classes are the very concepts we want our students to learn and make connections with. Using the appropriate terminology can provide clarity and consistency. Do your grade partners use the same language as you? Would students entering different math classrooms in your school hear the same language? Come and check out some of the math terminology we have for you to engage with.

Speakers

Chris Zarski

Designer of Professional Learning, ARPDC

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST
RDP Room 2302

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

9:00am MST

Numeracy bead strings and Cuisenaire rods

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST

RDP Room 2304

Join us for a hands-on session exploring two exceptional math tools: Numeracy bead strings and Cuisenaire rods. In this session, we will show you the many ways they can be used in your classroom from preschool to grade 6 including counting, part-part whole thinking, place value, basic facts, fractions, and more!
*This session can be split into early Elementary and later Elementary.

Speakers

Angela Hanson

Angela Hanson is an elementary school educator who believes that learning math concepts should be active and fun. She structures math classes that encourage students to move and engage in group activities. Her students are excited to discover new math strategies using manipulatives... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST
RDP Room 2304

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K)

9:00am MST

POWER PLAY - GAMES AND STRATEGIES FOR TEACHING PLACE VALUE

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST

RDP Room 2305

Come prepared to play games and learn strategies that help teach the following concepts: base ten composing/decomposing numbers, comparing numbers to millions and decimals, rounding and expanding numbers, number line activities. Games integrate the use of cards, regular dice and shakers, place value dice, number lines and even red solo cups! These activities are easy to differentiate and can help rebuild and develop deep understanding of place value concepts before paper and pencil practice. Activities can be used in whole class, small group instruction or in centers. GRADE 3 Teachers would benefit greatly from this session with the increased curriculum expectations for this grade. Handout will contain gameboards, concept skill checklists for assessment. This is a fast paced hands-on session.

Speakers

John Felling

presenter, Box Cars And One Eyed Jacks

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST
RDP Room 2305

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Special Education (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 1 (Gr 1-3)

9:00am MST

Financial Literacy for Grade 4-6: Ready to go lesson plans that your students will love!

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST

RDP Room AC160 (Arts Centre)

Welcome to Enriched Academy, where we make financial literacy fun and easy for teachers and students in grade 4-12! Join us as we explore the KickStart program designed to support the PE & Wellness Financial Literacy outcomes. The videos, activities and interactive tools make learning about finances a blast for students. Enriched Academy has taken the complicated language of money and transformed it into clear, relatable concepts that students in grades 4-6 can connect with. Teachers, you will find our resources comprehensive and user-friendly, enabling you to effortlessly integrate financial literacy into your classroom. At no cost to you or your school, get ready to empower your students with the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate their financial futures successfully!

Speakers

Sonya Fox

Enriched Academy

Sonya Fox is an experienced educator with over 20 years of teaching experience and has worked with students from grades one through twelve.  In her last four years, Sonya took her passion for business and finance into the classroom, teaching entrepreneurship and finance to high... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST
RDP Room AC160 (Arts Centre)

Physical Education (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

9:00am MST

Un livre 3 matières et plusieurs idées organisatrices 4-6

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST

Recording

Rejoignez-nous pour une session ludique et pratique dédiée aux enseignants de la 4e à la 6e année, où vous découvrirez comment exploiter le potentiel d’un album jeunesse pour enseigner des concepts clés en français, en maths et en sciences. Join us for a fun, hands-on session dedicated to teachers of grades 4-6, where you'll discover how to harness the potential of a children's album to teach key concepts in French, math and science.

Speakers

Elyse Morin

Learning Network, APLC et le Consortium Francophone de l'Alberta

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST
Recording

Science (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | French & International Languages (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

Post Convention Recordings Elyse Morin

9:00am MST

Using Assessment to Improve Teaching

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST

RDP Room 1437

Assessments take many forms, from qualitative observations to assignments and tests. All of these are opportunities for feedback not just for students, but also for teachers. So how can you take advantage of that, and improve what you’re doing in your classroom, without adding a bunch more work to your life? This workshop will explore how you can use the results from all types of assessments to improve your teaching. The facilitators, Jason Cooper and Laura Pankratz, have decades of classroom and assessment experience. Participants in this workshop will engage in discussion and exploration of what is currently working in Alberta classrooms.

Speakers

Jason Cooper

Onsite contact: Jason Coooper

Jason Cooper is the creator and owner of SmarterMarks, a tool that helps teachers and students do more with paper and online assessments. Before making the switch to supporting and developing SmarterMarks full-time, he worked as a high school science teacher in Calgary for 9 year... Read More →

Laura Pankratz

Western Canada Teacher Network Coordinator, Perimeter Institute

Laura Pankratz is an educator with more than 30 years of working with students and teachers. One of her principles of education is the learning is messy. Her passion is finding the nugget of value in that mess and then helping the learner to build around it. Laura’s career included... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am MST
RDP Room 1437

Science (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Language Arts (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

10:20am MST

Transformative Teaching: Leveraging Digital Tools for Engaged Learning.

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST

RDP Room 2501

In this dynamic session, educators will delve into the artificial intelligence and its potential to transform teaching and learning. Participants will gain hands-on experience with innovative digital tools designed to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. This intermediate/advanced session will cover practical applications, including the integration of LLM and digital resources into various curricula. We will also explore strategies for fostering digital literacy and critical thinking in students, ensuring ethical and effective use of technology in the classroom.

Speakers

Gilles Theriault

Teacher, Red Deer Public School District

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST
RDP Room 2501

10:20am MST

Bringing Financial Literacy to Life: Grade 10-12

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST

RDP Room AC160 (Arts Centre)

Welcome to Enriched Academy, where we make financial literacy fun and easy for teachers and students in grade 10-12! Join us as we explore the EnrichedStart program designed to support CALM, Math and CTS Finance Modules. The videos, activities and interactive tools make learning about finances a blast for students. Enriched Academy has taken the complicated language of money and transformed it into clear, relatable concepts that high school students can connect with. Teachers, you will find our resources comprehensive and user-friendly, enabling you to effortlessly integrate financial literacy into your classroom. At no cost to you or your school, get ready to empower your students with the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate their financial futures successfully!

Speakers

Sonya Fox

Enriched Academy

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST
RDP Room AC160 (Arts Centre)

Career & Technology Studies/Foundations (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

10:20am MST

OH THE MATH THAT THEY NEED TO KNOW - KINDERGARTEN/GRADE 1 EARLY PRIMARY MATH GAMES

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST

RDP Room 2305

This math games workshop is for Kindergarten - through First Grade teachers, but would be of great benefit to primary and special ed teachers working with ELL and students that have learning gaps. Games will focus on the following concepts: counting, subitizing, comparing numbers, developing the foundation for early operations including doubles, make 5 make 10, counting forward and back from a given number, skip counting and patterns. Games will integrate the use of cards, math shakers, number lines and rulers, multi-sided dice, whole body movement for brain breaks and more. The games and strategies can be used whole group, small group or in centers. Handout will contain gameboards, concept skill checklists for assessment. COME PREPARED TO PLAY in this fast paced workshop and oh the math that they'll know!

Speakers

John Felling

presenter, Box Cars And One Eyed Jacks

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST
RDP Room 2305

Inclusive Education (TQS/LQS 4), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K) | Special Education (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K)

10:20am MST

Math Trauma 101: Why Math Scares Students (And How to Change That)

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST

RDP Room 1400 (MP Theatre)

This session is all about the F-word that’s likely holding your students back in math: F-E-A-R. If you’re ready to stop talking about bandaid solutions to manage math anxiety in the moment, and start learning how to help students overcome it for good – this session is for YOU! Get ready to learn about the dynamics of fear, understand the exact way it manifests into math anxiety and triggers math trauma in the classroom, and gain impactful strategies you can use RIGHT away to break the cycle of fear, anxiety, and avoidance. This session will totally transform your understanding of math anxiety and empower you to help ALL students build healthier relationships with math!

Speakers

Vanessa Vakharia

Known as the Lady Gaga of math education, Vanessa is the founder and director of The Math Guru, a super cool boutique math & science tutoring studio in Toronto that's changing stereotypes about what math education looks like. She is also the host of the Math Therapy podcast, author... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST
RDP Room 1400 (MP Theatre)

10:20am MST

Math Vocabulary - What Exactly is the Correct Term in Our New Math Grades 4-6?

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST

RDP Room 2302

Speakers

Chris Zarski

Designer of Professional Learning, ARPDC

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST
RDP Room 2302

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

10:20am MST

Getting Students to Welcome Assessments

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST

RDP Room 1437

We expect students to show up in our classes ready to learn, ready to incorporate new ideas into their canon of knowledge, skills and attitudes. But often students show up having been trained to perform on assignments, quizzes and tests for marks. There is a disconnect between these two expectations that can often lead to frustration for both teachers and students. This workshop will explore building a classroom culture that will have students valuing assessments as a measure of their learning rather than as a hoop to hop through. The facilitators, Jason Cooper and Laura Pankratz, have decades of classroom and assessment experience. Participants in this workshop will engage in discussion and exploration of what is currently working in Alberta classrooms.

Speakers

Jason Cooper

Onsite contact: Jason Coooper

Laura Pankratz

Western Canada Teacher Network Coordinator, Perimeter Institute

Friday February 21, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am MST
RDP Room 1437

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Science (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Assessment (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Language Arts (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

11:40am MST

Using Data to Build Better Assessments

Friday February 21, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST

RDP Room 1437

So, you have just finished scoring your students’ tests. You have a bunch of data! What do you do with that data? This workshop will explore some key tools for interpreting assessment data and discuss how they can be used to build assessments that are fair, reflect a range of student understanding, and provide meaningful feedback to students. The facilitators, Jason Cooper and Laura Pankratz, have decades of classroom and assessment experience. Participants in this workshop will engage in discussion and exploration of what is currently working in Alberta classrooms.

Speakers

Jason Cooper

Onsite contact: Jason Coooper

Laura Pankratz

Western Canada Teacher Network Coordinator, Perimeter Institute

Friday February 21, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
RDP Room 1437

Language Arts (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Science (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Assessment (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

11:40am MST

Success with Basic Multiplication and Division Facts

Friday February 21, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST

RDP Room 2600

This interactive session will first explore the commutative property and fact families that are integral to learning multiplication and division facts and then cover our Thinking Strategies series approach: “chunking” facts into groups, developing efficient thinking strategies for each chunk, and the importance of drill/practice. You will leave this session with important insights on how best to teach basic multiplication and division and we will provide activities from the MathImagine Foundation resources.

Why is this session relevant to teachers?
Why this is an important session: It provides an effective and straightforward approach to teaching basic multiplication and division facts.
What will be the learning: Number relationships, chunking facts, commutative or turnaround property of basic facts, thinking strategies for basic facts, and John Van de Walle’s theory of building mastery.
Focus: Basic multiplication and addition facts.
Takeaway: Teachers will be able to improve on their current approach of teaching student multiplication and division facts. Teachers will also take away activities to use in the classroom.

Speakers

Angela Hanson

Friday February 21, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
RDP Room 2600

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

11:40am MST

All Aboard for Algebra!

Friday February 21, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST

RDP Room 2302

Many of the Algebraic concepts that lived in junior high are now seen by and are engaging Division 2 students. Roll up your sleeves, one more time and dive into the manipulatives that can help us engage our learners in these algebraic concepts. Knowing ‘why’ we do what we do in algebra is very important to students making those valuable connections.

Speakers

Chris Zarski

Designer of Professional Learning, ARPDC

Friday February 21, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
RDP Room 2302

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

11:40am MST

Energize Fractions with Online Simulations

Friday February 21, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST

RDP Room AC159 (Arts Centre)

Dive into the world of interactive math simulations, where conceptual understanding and student confidence grows. Gizmos online simulations can inspire your students to think like mathematicians. Participants will engage in an interactive lesson with scaffolding fraction Gizmos. Explore Gizmos resources that you can incorporate immediately into your classroom! Access to Gizmos for K-6 teachers has been provided by Alberta Education. Please bring an electronic device to get the most out of this session.

Speakers

Karen Blumhagen

Implementation Coordinator, Alberta, Explore Learning

Karen Blumhagen is an Implementation Coordinator with ExploreLearning. She has over thirty years of experience in education as a classroom teacher, learning facilitator, and administrator. Karen has observed firsthand the positive impacts of online simulations on student understanding... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MST
RDP Room AC159 (Arts Centre)

Technology (TQS/LQS 2), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

1:00pm MST

Top 10 Numeracy Activities for Preschool/Kindergarten

Friday February 21, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

RDP Room 2600

Join our interactive session of our top 10 numeracy activities for the preschool and kindergarten classroom. These activities are easy to implement, cross-curricular, low-cost, and fun! And you will be able to use them in the classroom the next day.

Why is this session relevant to teachers?
Why this is an important session: It provides teachers with activities to facilitate numeracy in their classroom.
What will be the learning: Easy, low cost, fun, cross-curricular numeracy activities.
Focus: Numeracy concepts.
Takeaway: Numeracy activities to use in the classroom.

Speakers

Angela Hanson

Friday February 21, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
RDP Room 2600

Mathematics (TQS 3), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K)

1:00pm MST

Making the Most of Outcomes in Assessment

Friday February 21, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

RDP Room 1437

You are a great teacher! You engage your students in rich learning tasks, and your students are successfully learning. How do you make sure your assessments reflect the breadth of student learning, and that feedback to students, parents and school administration helps them make informed choices moving forward? Blueprinting assessments (and class time) can help you. This workshop will explore the ideas of intentionally addressing mandated curriculum outcomes and cognitive load through blueprinting. The facilitators, Jason Cooper and Laura Pankratz, have decades of classroom and assessment experience. Participants in this workshop will engage in discussion and exploration of what is currently working in Alberta classrooms.

Speakers

Jason Cooper

Onsite contact: Jason Coooper

Laura Pankratz

Western Canada Teacher Network Coordinator, Perimeter Institute

Friday February 21, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
RDP Room 1437

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Science (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12) | Assessment (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12)

1:00pm MST

Build Conceptual Understanding Using Online Math Simulations - Grades 1 and 2

Friday February 21, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST

RDP Room AC159 (Arts Centre)

Discover how Gizmos online simulations can encourage young students to think like mathematicians. Explore the use of online simulations to enhance conceptual understanding, fostering student confidence in mathematics. Engage in a structured lesson aligned with the new Division 1 math curriculum, and access ready-to-use Gizmos classroom resources. Access to Gizmos for K-6 teachers has been provided by Alberta Education. Teachers are encouraged to bring a device.

Speakers

Karen Blumhagen

Implementation Coordinator, Alberta, Explore Learning

Friday February 21, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MST
RDP Room AC159 (Arts Centre)

Technology (TQS/LQS 2), Division 1 (Gr 1-3) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3)

1:00pm MST

Tipi Traditions and Balanced Living: Wisdom for Today's World

Friday February 21, 2025 1:00pm - 3:20pm MST

RDP Room 1303

Embark on a transformative cultural journey with Elder Phillip Campiou from Treaty 8, as we delve into the sacred teachings and traditional practices centered around the Tipi. Experience the profound connection to the land as we participate in the hands-on process of setting up a full-size Tipi. Through immersive storytelling, we'll uncover the timeless wisdom embedded in these teachings, offering invaluable insights that resonate deeply in our contemporary lives.

Speakers

Phillip Campiou

Elder, Driftpile Cree Nation

Phillip Campiou, a member of the Traditional Woodland Cree from Driftpile Cree Nation, Alberta, has made his home in the Onoway area. Growing up, Phillip's father instilled in him the principles of self-sufficiency and profound respect for Mother Earth and spiritual teachings. As... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 1:00pm - 3:20pm MST
RDP Room 1303

Indigenous Education (TQS/LQS 5), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K), All Divisions | Environmental & Outdoor Education (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K), All Divisions | Social Studies (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K), All Divisions | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K), All Divisions | Science (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3), Division 2 (Gr 4-6), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Early Childhood Education (Pre K-K), All Divisions

2:20pm MST

Math Games Galore: Having Fun with Math for Lower Elementary!

Friday February 21, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST

RDP Room 2600

Need some fresh, new ideas for games and activities that kids LOVE to play? A multitude of engaging games supporting numeracy and basic facts will be introduced and played during the session. These games, from The MathImagine Foundation resources, are ideal for individual learning, group learning, learning centres, and whole-class instruction in lower Elementary. Be ready to participate, have fun, and win fantastic prizes!

Why is this session relevant to teachers?
Why this is an important session: This session provides well-designed games to help make learning math engaging and effective.
What will be the learning: Lower Elementary games supporting mastery of basic math facts and games that support numeracy development.
Focus: Basic facts and basic numeracy concepts.
Takeaway: New games to use in the classroom.
*This session can be combined with the Upper Elementary session to provide games from K-6.

Speakers

Angela Hanson

Friday February 21, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm MST
RDP Room 2600

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 1 (Gr 1-3)

3:20pm MST

Collaborative Learning Strategies for Student Success

Friday February 21, 2025 3:20pm - Saturday May 31, 2025 11:30pm MDT

Recording

In this engaging and practical session, we will delve into a variety of collaborative learning strategies that enhance student engagement and foster a safe, productive learning environment. The session will focus on Jigsaw Learning, educational games, and whiteboard activities, to empower students to work together, improve critical thinking, and take ownership of their learning.

Speakers

Jennifer Mahal

My name is Jennifer Mahal. As a teacher, I’ve had experience substituting across different schools in Calgary. I also spent time teaching Science at an academy in Hastings, UK. After my time abroad, I continued to teach in Calgary. With 11 years of teaching experience, I believe... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 3:20pm - Saturday May 31, 2025 11:30pm MDT
Recording

Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 2 (Gr 4-6) | Curriculum & Pedagogy (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9), Division 4 (Gr 10-12), Division 2 (Gr 4-6)

Post Convention Recordings Jennifer Mahal

3:20pm MST

PBL basics - how to develop a project based mindset

Friday February 21, 2025 3:20pm - Saturday May 31, 2025 11:30pm MDT

Recording

The real world doesn’t exist in silos so why do we expect our students to learn in them? Project Based Learning provides an opportunity to blur the lines between subject disciplines and allow students and teachers to collaborate on meaningful tasks, but how do we even begin? This session will provide guidance for different planning methods used to develop cross-curricular project based learning initiatives at the secondary level with science at their core.

Speakers

Julie Arsenault

Science Lead Teacher, Science Council

After receiving her Bachelors and Masters degrees in Microbiology and Biotechnology, Julie entered the Faculty of Education at the University of Alberta to pursue her teaching career. She has been teaching with Edmonton Public Schools since 2002 and has developed a passion for incorporating... Read More →

Friday February 21, 2025 3:20pm - Saturday May 31, 2025 11:30pm MDT
Recording

Science (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Mathematics (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9) | Language Arts (TQS 3), Division 3 (Gr 7-9)

Post Convention Recordings Julie Arsenault