1. PLC-B Math Mathematical Practice #4: Model with Mathematics March 10, 2014 Robbin Prock Frank Tillery

2. Why Model? As teachers, we model with mathematics routinely in our classrooms, but our goal is that our students are also able to model math ideas. Through numbers, symbols, objects, diagrams, and graphic representations we are able to see and manipulative math concepts and operations.

3. Modeling for success Creating models of math problems is an invaluable skill for success in problem solving. When our students are able to get problems out of their heads through the creation of models, solutions are often not far behind.

5. Going beyond the teacher… While the ability to create appropriate models is important, it is equally important that our students can ◦analyze their models to gain insights, ◦draw conclusions, ◦and solve problems.

7. How do we get there? Have students create their own models Share with a partner to compare Ask questions such as “would both models work?” Allow students to see multiple ways the math can be represented.

9. Trying it out Sometimes children need help to construct the meaning to solve their problems. They may need a template.

10. Assessment As students are working on constructing models during a classroom activity, we might simply stop to observe and ask questions to check their understanding.