Teaching fifth graders to use a division algorithm requires students to have a ton of foundational knowledge. Using models and manipulatives to teach this standard can be helpful at first for students. Students who understand the steps of the algorithm…
In this video, we’re discussing the 3rd-grade standard NSO.1.2, which asks students to decompose and compose numbers. This standard is critical for students to dive into deeply as it leads to the multiplication and division standards later down the road.…
Teachers in the United States yearn for a high level of respect from the public. However, do we afford it to each other? Unfortunately, I’ve heard countless demeaning comments from teachers and administrators about other educators. I’m embarrassed to say…
Patterns are all around us and emphasize the connection between mathematics and nature. Join me in learning how the concrete, representational, abstract approach to learning mathematics can help when 5th-grade students are learning how to generate expressions from patterns.
In 4th grade, students are expected to have a greater amount of automaticity with basic multiplication facts. Approached such as timed tests, flashcards, and prizes based on fluency are outdated and may cause math anxiety in students. Join me in…
Part 1 of this week’s video series discusses how 3rd-grade teachers (and others) may approach teaching geometry vocabulary. Learn about strategies to avoid and what approaches are recommended.
Growth Mindset is essential to teaching mathematics (Boaler, 2013). In this video, I discuss the standard MA.K12.MTR.1.1 Actively participate in effortful learning individually and collectively, focusing on the component of a growth mindset in mathematics. Boaler, Jo. “Ability and mathematics:…
The new B.E.S.T Standards are on their way! This school year, I will be offering short videos to help you on the journey toward successfully implementing the new standards in your classroom. These videos will all be similar in structure…
The goal ultimately is for students to memorize basic multiplication facts. Timed tests are proved to add undue stress to students and rarely lead to memorization. Instead, teaching students strategies to get to products will lead to subconscious memorization.
Anyone who knows me well can tell you I am terrible a loser. My husband and best friend are hesitant to suggest a game night. All my…