Mathematical Dialogue

"This article builds on the three types of classroom talk identified by Mercer and Wegerif (1999) by adding complementary criteria that can be used when classifying student talk in the mathematics classroom. 

Dr. Cathy Bruce discusses some guidelines for using Maths talk in the classroom.

Matt Sexton (ACU) explores engaging students in mathematical dialogue. 

The Mathematics Association of Victoria (MAV) has compiled their top 5 teacher tips for success with number talks.

FUSE website video on number talks.  Provides an example of a number talk in a foundation classroom as they explore the number 6.

Teacher moves that engage students in discourse and mathematical thinking. (Downloadable PDF) 

An accessible professional reading from the Primary English Teachers' Association of Australia that outlines a range of dialogic approaches  by Christine Edwards-Groves.

Practical strategies for opening up the dialogic spaces in classroom practice for learning focused talk and reflection, adapted from Edwards-Groves, 2003 

NSW Department of Education resource posters and cards that teachers can use in their classrooms.

Make a copy of a slide deck to use for your math talks. 

Sentence starters that students use to join a class discussion encourage both academic thinking and social connectedness. 

A quick assessment strategy replaces raised hands, encouraging more students to contribute by accommodating their different processing needs. 

A strategy to support students to solve problems.  Has activities to introduce the strategy to students as well as the benefits for using this strategy. 

Demonstrates the use of the 'I notice', 'I wonder' strategy to explore a graph.  Shows a secondary class example but the strategy can be used in a primary setting.