BIG IDEAS IN MATHEMATICS

Use Writing in Math Students who have opportunities, encouragement, and support for… writing in math reap dual benefits: They communicate to learn mathematics and they learn to communicate mathematically. NCTM Principles and Standards 2000 Writing in Math Helps students think Allows time to process Offers extended learning opportunities Increases math vocabulary Informs teacher

What the Research says… When asked to explain their problem- solving processes or to discuss how the math they learned might be used in the real world, students deepen their understanding of concepts and clarify their thinking (Goldsby & Cozza, 2002; Sjoberg, Slavit, and Coon, 2004)

But how can we collect data on student writing? Data folders could include student writing samples over time Rubrics for scoring student writing give a numeric value to student writing

Meaningful Distributed Practice What the research says… Distributing study time over several sessions generally leads to better memory of the information than conducting a single study session. (Ebbinghaus, 1885; Keppel, 1981; Bloom and Schuell, 1981; Donovan & Radosevich, 1999)

Opportunities For Distributed Practice Math Boxes Everyday Math Games Down Time Writing Prompts

Use How can we collect data on distributed practice? Teachers keep log of minutes spent on games, down time practice. Track progress on identified skills using slate assessments, mini-quizzes, specific problems on the math boxes, or writing prompts.

Increase Teachers Knowledge of Mathematics What the research says…. Improving teachers mathematical knowledge and their capacity to use it to do the work of teaching is crucial in developing students mathematical proficiency. National Research Council, 2001

Now dont take offense… Were aware that: Every teacher takes required math courses in high school and college The math education that we received may not have provided us with sufficient opportunities to really LEARN mathematics. We may know the facts or procedures but we may also have a relatively weak understanding of the conceptual basis for that knowledge.

How can we increase our content knowledge? Assess teacher knowledge. Identify an area to learn more about. Start a study group of teachers in the building that want to learn more about similar concepts. After working together, re-assess.

What data could we collect on increasing teacher understanding of math concepts? A log of the groups topics and work Teacher journals that record problem solving and replies to affective prompts (If youre really brave…) Pre-test and Post-test Scores I figured it out!!!!!!

Other ideas for math ARTs to consider: Increasing Student Math Vocabulary Teaching Math through Problem Solving A Strategic Look at Basic Facts Meaningful Use of Manipulatives

Whatever you do… Try to come up with a plan that: Will benefit all kids, and harm none… Will excite teachers Will improve student achievement in mathematics And…

Dont be afraid to Think outside the box!