Transform Math Class into a Community of Problem Solvers
What is a Student Centered Math Classroom? A student centered math classroom is complex, yet simple. The main point… the students are doing the work– the thinking, doing, exploring, figuring out. The teacher is the guide on the side in that exploration and sense making. “Teachers are the Guide on
Students engagement strategies in math discussions start with reflecting on what engagement means to you. Then, get a clear criteria of engagement ready to share with your students. Finally, consider how you’ll build your students capacity to be engaged. Students engagement strategies shouldn’t be about compliance, but instead about building students’ to self monitor their engagement.
Questions about math you ask in the math discussion matter. Reflect on the types of questions you’re asking. Ask open, not leading questions that instead focus students attention toward the math. Stay in the facilitator role- always talk less and listen more. Allow the power of your students words and ideas lead the discussion.
Often we talk about teaching practices assuming we all know what each other is talking about. However, we come from different schools and experiences, and our definitions are often different. So, I ask… What is a math discussion?
It’s that time of year again… Black History Month. That time of year where we start to look for a Black History Leaders list to teach Black History to our students. Although I am a firm believe that these months are important in bringing awareness and honor to the people
I hear all the time… “My math block is already packed.” or “I’m using high ceiling, low floor tasks, but I’m not sure how to fit it into my math block.” The answer to these question is actually quiet simple, but not widely known. I structure every single lesson in
“My school doesn’t have math professional development. What can I do to develop professionally?” -Teacher This is such a common issue in our schools. We often don’t get math professional development in our buildlings and we are left to figure out how to develop professionally on our own. I have
Resetting Math Classroom Norms As we start the new year we often want a fresh start. We set goals and help students reflect on what they want to accomplish in this new year. However, resetting math classroom norms is often what we need in the new year. The winter holiday
