S2 E1 - Communicating Maths Effectively with Ben Sparks

Digging for the Why

Join us and our special guest, Ben Sparks, as we discuss everything from engaging teaching methods and practical applications to fostering curiosity among students.

We emphasise the need for teachers to make maths interesting and accessible beyond the traditional curriculum. While exploring the importance of deep understanding over memorisation across all subjects.

We also take a look at parental influence and some different, varied pedagogical approaches to create an engaging and accessible learning environment for all students.

Meet our Guest:
Ben is an experienced mathematician, musician and public speaker. He hosts maths talks and workshops around the world.

Ben is currently part freelance and an Area Coordinator with the AMSP, and is based at the University of Bath. His performances include regular work with the Numberphile YouTube channel, where his videos have been watched over 12 million times. He also runs his own YouTube channel, SparksMaths.
@SparksMaths | https://www.bensparks.co.uk/

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Andy - @desire2undrstnd/Bluesky
Alison - @AlisonHopperMEI
A talented young creative iingledew produced our intro/outro – check out his Soundcloud.

Chapter

1. Welcome to Episode 1 and Introducing Ben Sparks (00:00:00)

2. Ben Shares His Journey and Passion for Maths  (00:04:27)

3. The Art of Teaching Maths: Insights and Inspirations (00:07:32)

4. Creating Engaging Maths Sessions  (00:13:24)

5. The Challenge of Communicating Maths Effectively and the Power of 'Show, Don't Tell' (00:22:24)

6. The Mega Menger Project and Engaging with Mathematics on a Personal Level  (00:26:06)

7. The Importance of Asking 'Why' and Challenges in Teaching Mathematics (00:29:20)

8. Harnessing Curiosity and Emotion and Tricks as a Pedagogical Tool in Mathematics  (00:34:27)

9. The Role of Teachers in Nurturing Mathematical Curiosity  (00:44:07)