This session will look at the Launch, Explore, Summarise instructional model, which offers a dynamic framework for using problem solving effectively in the classroom. We will focus specifically on the Launch phase, where the primary goal is to spark students' interest and set the stage for exploration. We will explore current classroom research and practice that demonstrates the importance of using relevant, challenging tasks to enhance student engagement. Educators will gain ideas for creating engaging mathematics tasks with authentic contexts and see examples of lessons that have been taught in primary classrooms across Victoria. We will share strategies to modify tasks, making them more interesting for the students in your class. With an engaging Launch, students are eager to delve deeper into the content being explored, setting a strong foundation for the Explore and Summarise phases that follow.

Key takeaways:
1. Ideas for engaging tasks with an authentic context.
2. Different approaches for modifying tasks.
3. Research and examples of student engagement when using problem solving tasks.