Building Thinking Classrooms - Part 1: Introduction

For too long, math classrooms have operated under industrial-age norms, often sidelining genuine student thinking in favor of mimicking. This highly interactive, full-day workshop is designed to change that.

Whether you are brand new to the Building Thinking Classrooms research or looking to refine your foundational practices, this session allows you to immerse yourself in a culture of thinking. While the practices explored are applicable across all grade levels and subject areas, our discussion and examples will be grounded specifically in mathematics.

We will dig into the research-backed teacher moves that bring a classroom to life, including:

• Task Selection: Moving from engaging non-curricular tasks to rich curricular math thinking.
• Collaborative Groups: Implementing frequent, visibly random groupings to break down social barriers and unlock authentic student collaboration.
• Thinking Spaces (VNPS): Utilizing vertical non-permanent surfaces to promote risk-taking and persistence.
• Teacher Moves: Managing questions with effective hints and extensions that keep students in a state of productive struggle and flow.

Be prepared to roll up your sleeves. You will become the student first, engaging in thinking tasks to see how a Thinking Classroom truly feels. You will leave with practical strategies you can implement the very next day.

This workshop is Part 1 of a three-part series. Continue the journey with Part 2: Next Steps (Oct 16) and Part 3: Assessment (Mar 5, 2027). Interested in attending multiple workshops? Contact Kyle directly to ask about multi-workshop pricing.

Registration Details

• Cost: $175.00 CAD + GST
• Includes: Full-day professional development and a catered lunch.
• Optional Add-on: Building Thinking Classrooms book at checkout for $44.95 (25%+ off).

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this for? This workshop focuses specifically on mathematics for K-12 educators. While the research applies across all subject areas, teachers of other disciplines are welcome to attend if they are interested in exploring how these math-based moves translate to their own classrooms.

Do I need the book? No, but it is a helpful companion to the session.

Dietary Restrictions? You will be prompted to enter any allergies or dietary needs for the catered lunch during checkout.

About the Presenter

Kyle Webb is an official member of the Building Thinking Classrooms team and a seasoned educational consultant. Having worked closely with Dr. Peter Liljedahl on the implementation of these practices, Kyle brings a unique perspective that bridges the research with the daily realities of the classroom.

While Kyle is a local educator based right here in Regina, he facilitates this work with schools and districts across Canada and around the world. He is deeply committed to supporting Saskatchewan teachers by bringing these global insights home, helping educators transform their classrooms into vibrant, problem-based learning environments where students move past simple mimicry to truly own their learning process.