This professional development workshop explores how to cultivate mathematical fluency by emphasizing the development of accuracy and efficiency over rote memorization. The session is grounded in current research that shows building number sense, rather than simply recalling facts from memory, is the most effective way to achieve long-term fluency. Participants learn how fluency is underpinned by conceptual understanding, procedural strategies, and flexibility in thinking. The workshop also introduces multiple hands-on strategies and formative assessment tools.

• Overreliance on memorization of math facts without a conceptual foundation.
  
  
• Lack of instructional strategies that build number sense and strategic thinking.
  
  
• Difficulty assessing and supporting fluency in a meaningful, developmentally appropriate way.
  

1. Understanding and Applying the Difference Between Memorization and Strategic Calculation
   Participants will learn how to distinguish between knowing facts from memory and developing fluency through conceptual and procedural strategies. They will examine how standards require both accurate recall and strategic flexibility, and how to align instruction accordingly.
   
   
2. Implementing Research-Based Strategies to Develop Fluency
   Educators will gain actionable techniques and hands-on strategies that build student accuracy and efficiency.
   
   
3. Using Formative Assessments to Measure and Support Fluency
   The workshop provides educators with tools to assess student progress in fluency. These assessments are designed to be engaging and diagnostic, helping educators identify student needs and tailor instruction effectively.