MASA 2026 Term 2 Professional Learning – BTC (Building Thinking Classrooms) Next Steps Workshop

WORKSHOP OVERVIEW – Join Lorna McClory, the only Building Thinking Classrooms(BTC) team member based in Australia, for a one-day workshop aimed at teachers who have previously attended Building Thinking Classrooms training or who are actively using some or all of the 14 practices.

This full day professional learning will pull back the curtain on thin-slicing and focus on the practical considerations of how to make it work in day-to-day teaching.  One of the most powerful—and often most misunderstood—practices within Building Thinking Classrooms, thin-slicing refers to the intentional sequencing of tasks to maintain an optimal balance between challenge and ability. When done well it provides access for all learners, while allowing teachers to cover large amounts of curricular content.  Participants will explore both the theoretical foundations and the pragmatic structures that make thin-slicing effective. We will examine how carefully sequenced tasks build understanding incrementally while sustaining engagement and flow. Educators will work collaboratively to thin-slice a curricular topic, designing task sequences that promote deep thinking, broad access, and efficient content coverage. By the end of the session, participants will have practical tools and design strategies for integrating thin-sliced lessons into their own classrooms.

NOTE – This workshop is designed for educators who are already working with Building Thinking Classroom practices in their classrooms.  If you are just beginning your journey with Building Thinking Classrooms join Lorna at the MASA 2026 Annual Conference or later in the year when she runs an introductory two-day workshop.

PRESENTER BIO:  Lorna McClory is a Mathematics Learning Specialist with almost 20 years of experience, having taught students across Years 7 to 12. She has taught in both Scotland and Victoria, and her primary role involves developing mathematical thinkers in both students and teachers. Lorna is committed to supporting teachers in enhancing their teaching methodologies to cater to all learners and move beyond mere algorithms. She is a firm believer in engaging lessons that foster curiosity in learners and encourage collaboration and problem-solving.  Her teaching approach emphasises reasoning, which she believes is a crucial component in developing mathematical thinkers. Lorna is the only Building Thinking Classrooms Australian team member, providing professional development and support to teachers implementing the 14 practices.  Learn more about Lorna’s experience as a Building Thinking Classrooms Team Member HERE

REGISTRATION LOGISTICS:

For school processed bookings details of participants will be collected at the time of order.  Invoicing will be sent to the person placing the order.  Once orders have been processed registered attendees will receive event advice.

Please note a single ticket order is required for each registered attendee. (You will need to provide full name and email details for each registered attendee at the time of ordering.)

If you are placing a multi-registration order please follow these steps

• for orders for 2  registrations please order a single ticket for each attendee (HERE)
• for orders for 3 registrations please order a multi-ticket bundle ticket (HERE)
• for orders for more than 3 registrations please email finance@masanet.com.au indicating the total number of tickets required.

CANCELLATIONS –  Cancellation fees are linked to the date of the event – cancellations made 14 days prior to the event 50% of the event ticket fee; 14-7 days prior to the event 75% of the event ticket fee; 7 or less days prior to the event 100% of the event ticket fee.   Access the MASA Cancellation & Refund Policy – HERE

RESCHEDULING – Should BTC/MASA need to reschedule or cancel the planned workshop event all registered attendees can elect to receive a full refund or have their registration transferred to the rescheduled event.