CGI Principles & Practices in Inclusive Classrooms (Grades K-5)

This professional development workshop from UCLA Center X explores how to bring Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI) principles and practices into inclusive K–5 classrooms. Grounded in over 35 years of research into how children's mathematical thinking develops, CGI empowers teachers to build instruction around students' own problem-solving strategies rather than imposing procedural methods from the top down. In this session, participants will engage in creative mathematical thinking together, exploring how to ignite rich student-to-student discussions where ideas spark, thinking grows, and genuine mathematical understanding takes hold. You'll reflect on practical strategies for facilitating productive math talk that is exciting, collaborative, and accessible to every learner—including students with diverse learning needs. UCLA's Mathematics Project, led by researchers including Megan Loef Franke, has been at the forefront of CGI professional development for over 25 years, supporting thousands of teachers across Los Angeles County and beyond. This workshop offers a powerful opportunity to experience CGI's inquiry-based approach firsthand and walk away with concrete strategies for making mathematics more inclusive and student-centred.