These lessons show how to maximize instruction that prepares students for formal algebra. Through a series of investigations that help students make connections between arithmetic and algebra, students build proficiency with key algebraic concepts - patterns, functions, and variables. They use multiple representations including models, drawings, tables, graphs, words, and symbols. Lessons include a technology component with suggestions for teaching with graphing calculators.
The lessons in this book build the foundation that prepares students for studying algebra in middle and high school. Incorporating manipulative materials, children's books, and problem-solving investigations, lessons actively engage students in creating, recognizing, describing, and extending patterns, and representing patterns with words, tables, variables, and graphs. Lessons also introduce students to solving equations and plotting points.
Classroom Discussions: Using Math Talk to Help Students Learn, Grades 1-6
This exciting resource provides a unique look into the significant role of classroom discussions in mathematics teaching in grades 1 through 6. Five discussion strategies are introduced to help teachers strengthen students' thinking and learning and help them build connections among mathematical ideas. A valuable outline is provided to help teachers get started using talk in the classroom, plan lessons, and deal with challenges. Two case studies are also included for further insight into how teachers can use talk effectively.
Learning Math With Calculators: Activities for Grades 3-8
Teachers interested in the whys and hows of incorporating calculators into math instruction will benefit enormously from this book. The first part addresses a broad range of questions and concerns raised by teachers. The second part consists of a collection of classroom-tested calculator activities that have been designed to develop children's number sense and problem-solving ability.
Imaginative lessons give students practice with mental computation, basic operations, navigating the number system, and estimation. Content is crafted to show that number sense is not a specific skill, but encompasses a student's ability to think and reason flexibly, make sound numerical judgments, and see numbers as useful. Both new and experienced teachers will find this book a valuable resource.
