From “Why Do I Need This?” to “I Can Do This!”: Increasing Engagement and Reducing Math Anxiety in Introductory Algebra
Speakers: Jolie Even Klett and Ellen Slagle of Hawkes Learning
If your students ask, “When will I ever use this?” or shut down because they feel they’re “just not a math person,” you’re not alone. Engagement challenges and math anxiety often go hand-in-hand in an introductory algebra course.
In this session, we’ll share practical ways to help students connect algebra to their everyday experiences and build confidence through structured, supportive learning. We’ll explore how real-world relevance, guided practice, and intentional scaffolding can transform the way students approach mathematics—turning uncertainty into understanding and frustration into momentum.
You’ll leave with ideas you can apply right away to boost motivation, reduce anxiety, and help students believe they can succeed in algebra.
