Adding Fractions
Digging in to addition of fractions using this prompt from inquirymaths.com. After a whole class discussion framed around questions and comments students worked with partners to explore their chosen question. I like the students' use of manipulative to explain the calculations.
Always – Sometimes – Never : addition & subtraction
Task: sort the statements according to whether they are always, sometimes or never true. This was the first time for this routine with my class (I included an example for each statement to help my EAL students with the language). Here is how we tackled it: 1. We started with a quick sorting activity with groups … Continue reading Always – Sometimes – Never : addition & subtraction
Addition Pre-assessment
I'm trying to move away from kicking off units with a pen and paper assessment. I do find these can give a quick snapshot of where the students are but, despite the progress we have made with developing a growth mindset, I also find that .... some students can't do anything and shut down before the … Continue reading Addition Pre-assessment
Numberless Word Problems
We've just started an addition and subtraction unit. The students are pretty comfortable with written and mental methods so I've made it a focus to develop the students' mathematical language - both their use and interpretation of it. A real bugbear of mine is 'word problems', even worse when the phrase is preceded by 'real-life'. I … Continue reading Numberless Word Problems