This is a joint workshop by four Leading Mathematics Teachers from Hampshire, England. Participants will be able to experience some of the rich classroom tasks that have been developed over the past 4 years to help raise the mathematical knowledge of gifted and talented learners in the 11-16 classroom. The materials have been used extensively in Hampshire with whole classes since our philosophy is that these materials should enthuse as many learners in the upper quartile (and their teachers!) as possible.

The target audience will be mathematics teachers of 9-16 year olds (including lead professional teachers), with a workshop maximum capacity of 30. All participants will receive a CD ROM containing all the materials that have been developed and trialled in the classroom.

The geometrical work consists of simple starting tasks that are accessible for all but the lowest quartile of learners, yet can be extended to form a challenge that keeps the teacher busy! These include links between geometry and algebra. Recent work is in progress that extends this to the use of ICT in 3D geometry through the use of Cabri3D.

The number work includes collaborative working to solve linked problems. These can be tackled as a team competition within a class and are based around activities such as planning a rock concert and a visit to a theme park.

Hand-held technology features in some activities, using motion sensors and other data loggers. This has resulted in some cross curricular work with science.

Kinaesthetic work using origami links practical geometry and algebra allowing learners to apply their mathematics.

The four workshop authors have disseminated the work at a local level as part of continuing professional development for teachers in the UK and now wish to spread the work internationally since they and their learners have enjoyed the experience so much. There will be some discussion on the structures and networks that exist to promote and share good practice.

This is a hands-on workshop, so tables rather than tiered seating would be preferred as participants will be involved in some practical tasks. The use of a computer and digital projector would be appreciated. Other materials will be provided by the authors. It is intended to be 2 different 1-hour workshops but each workshop will contain an independent circus. The emphasis is on providing a variety of materials and the inspiration for participants to design their own tasks.