2019 Conference

Words Matter in Math

presented by BiJian Fan, Ph.D.

Instructor, CSU Channel Islands


Grade Level: K-2

Standards: Common Core Math, Instructional Strategies

Presentation Type: Demonstration



English words for number 11-19 are irregular and form a stumbling block for our children.  The irregularity masks the base-10 structure and disrupts the recurring pattern of numerals.  The irregularity holds our children back for two years in arithmetic.  Attend this presentation to learn strategies for addressing this early math stumbling block in order to elevate children’s preparedness for math.


Workshop resources


About BiJian Fan


Dr. Fan received his B.S. and M.S. in Mathematics, and his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering. He accomplished a scientific career in pharmaceutical research and development and now teaches math at CSU Channel Islands. Dr. Fan has also been a math instructor in China.