LIFE LESSONS Deann Anguiano ’85/86, Math Teacher, Kentridge High School
A
s a math teacher at Kentridge High School in Kent, Wash., Deann Anguiano ’85/86 continually sought
ways to make classroom lessons relevant for her students. So, when the opportunity arose to help develop an innovative math course, she eagerly embraced it. The class—Applications in Mathematical Reasoning (AMR)—is a senior math course that uses math models to solve real-world problems. Its flexible module format and activities spark student interest and bolster confidence. “Most of the modules can be related to the student’s life in some way,” she says. “I love teaching math when I can find something in real life to relate it to.”
Anguiano has helped her students apply mathemati- cal concepts to projects ranging from building design to the study of student recycling habits. During the 2008 elections, Anguiano taught AMR’s voting theory module. Students ap- plied their revised Electoral College systems to the voting re- turns to see if their method elected the same candidate as the nation’s current system. Most of them did. “Students need time to question and discuss things. If an
activity is engaging, discussions will occur,” she says. “Many parents have told me that something we have done in class has become discussion in their homes.” As a Project TIME (Transitions in Math Education) par-
ticipant, Anguiano helped develop the AMR curriculum, served as a pilot instructor, and trained others to teach the course. The successful program has been implemented in six Washington school districts.
I love teaching math when I can find something in real life to relate it to.
22 Har vey Mudd College SPRING 2011
KERRY DAHLEN
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