This article describes one of the aspects of LLMP which has the potential to contribute to sustained professional development in the Milwaukee Public Schools, viz . LLMP is funded by the National Science Foundation. It is conducted jointly through Marquette University and Education Development Center. All phases of LLMP are closely tied to the NSF-funded Milwaukee Urban Systematic Initiative, now in its second year. Teachers participate in teams of two or more teachers from the same school.
Principals participate in the project in a limited capacity.
This is done by helping teachers understand and recognize the special habits of mind that are characteristic of students who are proficient in algebra, helping teachers identify activities and lessons in reform curriculum materials that can be used to foster algebraic thinking in their students. facilitating the sharing, networking and coaching that can help teachers implement successful algebraic learning in their classrooms. The first cohort of teachers began participation in LLMP with an 8-day workshop during August, 1997. Emphasis in the course is on strategies for understanding student thinking in algebra, and for helping students experience success in algebra-related mathematics. Although workshop and class sessions are held on the campus of Marquette University, much of the course work is done inside the teachers' own classrooms. In particular, the teachers are observed on six occasions as they implement algebra problem solving activities with their students.