Connecting Weirdness and Wonder to Mathematics

Authors

Elizabeth Basile, University of South Carolina AikenFollow
Deborah H. McMurtrie, University of South Carolina AikenFollow
Bridget K. Coleman, University of South Carolina AikenFollow

Abstract

Middle school students are weird and wonderful. Why not bring some of that weirdness and wonder into the mathematics classroom? Effective teachers of mathematics can create a culture of engagement, curiosity, and collaboration in mathematics instruction by presenting “weird” problems (as opposed to word problems) and giving students opportunities to explore their wonderings. Inspired by “the bizarreness effect,” the problems presented here are infused with humor and designed to intrigue young adolescents.

Recommended Citation

Basile, E., McMurtrie, D., & Coleman, B. (2022). Connecting weirdness and wonder to mathematics. South Carolina Association for Middle Level Education Journal, 128-131.