Mathematics
Bindu Bakka
Bindu Bakka
Mathematics
At any age, mathematics can be pretty abstract. To make learning more meaningful and concrete for students, I incorporate as many manipulatives as possible, including virtual manipulatives. Regardless of the math curriculum, students need to think critically and problem-solve so that they can use these skills in their future careers. By incorporating STEM, students can use the design process and/or scientific method to determine solutions to real-world problems. As a highly qualified teacher in math, I feel as though I can impart my mathematical knowledge and love of math to my students.
Common Core math is a new framework that seeks to improve students’ conceptual understanding of math by encouraging problem-solving, critical thinking, and discussion skills.
Mental math is an important part of math fluency. When students have a quick recall of math facts and can do simple equations quickly, they have the confidence to attempt more difficult problems.
There are thousands of math websites that can be used as part of a game-based learning approach or differentiation strategy. Online resources get students excited about learning math and can often be scaled based on knowledge and grade level.
Math goodies: Free resource that provides puzzles and word problems. Students can either use this resource on their own or you can use it to create custom worksheets.
TeacherVision: Looking for interdisciplinary activities? Look no further. TeacherVision gives teachers access to resources that connect math with subjects like art, history, and geography.
SuperKids: SuperKids is a one-stop resource for building worksheets. Select a skill and number range, and generate a custom assignment.
Prodigy Math: Students go on adventures, collect pets, and battle with friends, all while answering skill-building, targeted math questions.
Math puzzles have been around almost as long as math has — for a reason. One study found that math puzzles “develop logical thinking, combinatorial abilities, strengthen the capacity of abstract thinking and operating with spatial images, instill critical thinking and develop mathematical memory.”Math puzzles build foundational skills and increase math fluency, while also connecting to existing curricula and promoting problem-solving skills.
Some popular math puzzles include: Sudoku, Magic Square, Tower of Hanoi, and KenKen.
Make sure the puzzles are at the right level for your students and that they’re being used appropriately.
Teaching students to solve math problems quickly and without help can improve confidence and math fluency. Provided your students have a solid grasp on the concepts behind what they’ve already mastered, math “tricks” can give them more confidence and get them excited about trying new problems.