Developing Mathematical Habits of Mind - Secondary Teachers

For problems arranged by curriculum topics or mathematical skills, visit the NRICH Secondary Curriculum page.

In What we think and why we think it, we argue that students learn better when they are curious, resourceful, resilient and collaborative.

In this film the mathematician Andrew Wiles talks about his personal experience of seeking a proof of Fermat's Last Theorem.  He describes what it is like to do mathematics, to be creative, to have difficulties, to make mistakes, to persevere, to make progress, to have a dream and love what you are doing so much that you are willing to devote yourself to it for a long time.  Of course, each mathematician's experience is different, and most mathematicians do not work alone for such prolonged periods without discussing their work with others, but much of Andrew Wiles' experience is shared amongst mathematicians, and reminds us of the rewards of perseverance in the face of difficulty.

Here are some collections of mathematical activities designed to give Stage 3 and 4 students opportunities to develop these desirable characteristics.