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Using concrete examples shows students that addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division are processes that combine or separate groups of objects in predictable ways. Real life examples help them learn that seven plus eight is always fifteen.
Incidental learning, also known as play, can have advantages over more formal settings. Students who may worry about their performance, behavior, or achievement level in typical school settings, can benefit from the lower expectations and more relaxed atmosphere.
Spaced practice goes by many names, such as spaced repetition, spaced retrieval practice, and spaced presentation. Whatever you call it, spaced practice is used with students of every age and in every subject area. It is especially useful when memorizing content such as vocabulary words or math facts, after the ideas and concepts have been understood. Spaced repetition is the opposite of massed presentation usually called ‘cramming’.
You can play this game while lining up, waiting in line, or whenever you have a few minutes to spare.
Learning about square numbers helps students develop their understanding of number patterns and the relationships between geometry and algebra. It also gives students practice with sequential patterns and multiplication facts. The Colorful Squares activity can be done as a stand alone project to increase students’ number sense, vocabulary, or logical thinking skills. It can also ... Continue Reading
What can you do in your class to support your students’ understanding of fractions & rational numbers Comprehending fractions, decimals, & rational numbers, plus knowing how to use them accurately when making calculations is important. Learning about fractions is arguably one of the most challenging academic topics facing the students in your math class this year. You are committed to helping them achieve their best, so now what?
Context helps students imagine circumstances which require logical thinking and mathematical reasoning. It gives students a reason to practice calculations and a big picture rationale for spending time and energy to become proficient in the skills they are learning. Contextualizing math problems encourages youngsters to make deep personal connections with an academic subject which can be intimidating to many students.
Here is a math game that can be played with any number of students, many ages, at most any time of the day. You can use it as part of a lesson or whenever you have a few extra minutes to fill.
Illustrated numbers lines are not just for elementary school. Students of any age would enjoy creating one.
Fractions are important because they are so much a part of our adult world and adult way of thinking. Yet, as ubiquitous as they are, it is not easy for young students to learn how to calculate with fractions. It can be difficult for parents and teachers to understand the multiple areas of difficulty when ... Continue Reading
As usual, I like to start with studying vocabulary needed to talk about the topic. In this case, there are several words that we may use in everyday language that have specific meanings when used in math. The task of teaching students to use math vocabulary successfully can be shared with specialist teachers, especially those ... Continue Reading
Exploring Square Numbers.pdf Teachers Guide to Exploring Square Numbers.pdf Centimeter Grid.pdf Math Vocab Booklet.pdf When math students are able to visualize square numbers as actual square shapes, they are on their way to creating a link between calculations and geometry. This increases their ability to create mental models of ... Continue Reading
Download Colorful Collections:
A Mindful Exploration of Proper Fractions
Help your students make sense of fractions.
I started teaching in 1987, which means I’ve collected many tips and tricks along the way. In this ebook, I share concepts, strategies, and classroom materials to help you make math sticky.
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Isabelle
Isabelle Hoag M. Ed.