MathsTalk by AMSI Schools

What's in store for the remainder of 2026? A plethora of exciting and engaging podcasts for you mathematical pleasure. Contact us for more ideas:

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In this episode of MathsTalk, Leanne McMahon is joined by mathematics educator Nadia Abdelal to explore the role of calculators in Years 7–8. This re-released episode tackles a question many schools still debate: when do calculators support learning, and when do they risk getting in the way?

Leanne and Nadia discuss how calculators can reduce cognitive load, improve access to new concepts, and support students who are still building number sense.

They also highlight the importance of intervention, estimation, and equity — reminding us that calculators can help students engage in richer mathematical thinking, but should sit alongside strong teaching of foundational skills.

Relevant links

MathsTalk podcast: calculate.org.au/mathstalk-podcast

Texas Instruments Australia: education.ti.com/australia

AMSI maths careers: careers.amsi.org.au

AMSI Industry Day resources: calculate.org.au/industry-day

In this episode of Maths Talk, we introduce an upcoming professional development event tailored for Maths and STEM teachers as well as career practitioners. Scheduled for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, the AMSI Industry Day at Latrobe University, Bendigo, offers engaging sessions from university educators and industry professionals to bridge classroom teaching with real-world applications of mathematics. The event includes impactful talks, networking opportunities, and takeaway resources funded by the Invergowrie Foundation. Teachers will leave with practical examples and lesson plans to inspire students and connect curriculum topics with future careers. Register through the AMSI website and join us for a day of learning and connecting.

Registrations: https://tinyurl.com/AMSBendigoRego

TI Professional Learning:

https://education.ti.com/en-au/resources/getting-started-with-ti-technology

Previous Industry Days: https://amsi.org.au/amsi-industry-day-for-teachers/ (Click on relevant day)

Classroom resources: https://amsi.org.au/2024-teacher-professional-learning-in-industry-day/

In this episode of MathsTalk, Leanne McMahon speaks with Dr Hong Xu, author of the Indigenous content for the upcoming AMSI textbook series, and Professor Rowena Ball, leader of the 'Mathematics Without Borders' initiative. Together, they discuss how and why Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander insights into maths are being incorporated into the Australian Mathematics Curriculum, what that looks like in practice, and how teachers can confidently bring this content into their classrooms.

MathsTalk is proudly sponsored by Texas Instruments Australia. https://education.ti.com/en-au

 

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

- Xu, H., & Ball, R. (2024). Indigenous Mathematics: From Mainstream Misconceptions to Educational Enrichment. Canadian Journal of Science, Mathematics and Technology Education, 24(2), 160-175. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42330-024-00321-5

- Mathematics Without Borders: https://www.anu.edu.au/research/research-initiatives/mathematics-without-borders

- AMSI Textbook Series: https://schools.amsi.org.au

Texas Instruments teacher professional learning: https://education.ti.com/en-au/professional-development/upcoming-pd

Texas Instruments website: https://education.ti.com/en-au/ 

- Australian Curriculum Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Histories & Cultures: https://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/curriculum-information/understand-this-cross-curriculum-priority/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-histories-and-cultures

In this special Pi Day episode of MathsTalk, host Leanne McMahon, AMSI’s school maths advisor, takes listeners on an engaging journey into the world of Pi. She explains what Pi is and how it is used in basic geometry, explores its irrational and transcendental nature, and discusses its importance in both mathematics and real-world applications. Leanne also shares fun facts about Pi—from ancient approximations to modern Pi recitation contests—and offers a variety of creative activities for teachers and parents to celebrate Pi Day in the classroom.