Rena Pate, BS, MA, NBCT

Master’s in Teaching and Learning Mathematics National Board Certified

 

When I was in second grade, the words math and computation were synonymous.  Each day we completed a worksheet of 30-50 computation problems with one story problem at the bottom of the page.  We called it the “dreaded story problem”.  Even our teacher called it that!  On most days her instructions were to just cross it off because it was too hard or complicated for us to do.

On occasion our teacher would be in “a mood” and would require we complete the problem.  So, we would do what any second grader would do.  Half of us would add the two numbers together and the other half would subtract the two numbers.  Of course, half of us would get the problem right and the other half would get it wrong.

When I began teaching math I realized that the only problem solving we were doing was percentages because half would get it right and 50% would get it wrong!  That was 1968, unfortunately not a lot has changed since then.  The only difference is that we have an exciting name like “Problem of the Day” for the story problem.  Most programs do not offer daily multiple opportunities to problem solve and the problems offered are simple addition or subtraction.

My Action Research Thesis was written about the importance of teaching problem solving in the primary classroom.  Through my research I tried to locate and identify some of the highest quality materials available.  Unfortunately after conducting an extensive search of private and textbook companies and scouring every material at NCTM conferences the only resources I was able to find were more simple Problem of the Day manuals.  This became my inspiration to write a book that would meet this need.

Recognition and Awards

 

2014 Dr. David L. Fields
Outstanding Teacher Award

Freelance math problem writer for Standardized Testing. MetriTech, Inc.  Champaign, Illinois

Golden Ruler for Excellence in Education – Vermilion County, 2005

Office Max “A Day Made Better” Recipient, October 3, 2007

Action Research Thesis – Primary Problem Solving in Children, 2007

Golden Apple Honor for Excellence in Teaching – State of Illinois, 2008

State of Illinois Resolution, October 28, 2010, Springfield, Illinois

University of Illinois Student Teacher  Supervisor – 1999-present

Education

 

Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education University of Illinois, 1989

National Board Certified Teacher
Master Certificate
2004

National Board Certified Teacher
Master Certificate Recertification
2013

Illinois State University Mentor Training, 2006

Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning Mathematics Nova Southeastern University, 2007

Gifted Education Training Regional Office of Education, 2010