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November 2023
November 2023
Dear Abacus:
I have been teaching middle school for a couple years now. I notice my students have a very difficult time solving equations. When I look into it further, they are very regimented in the approach. For example, if they are given 7x+14=35 as an equation to solve, the only move they see is to subtract 14 from both sides of the equation. It never occurs to them to make an easier problem by dividing both sides by 7 first. It is the similar with something like 2(x+5)=14. The only move students attempt is to distribute the two. How can I get my students to be more flexible with their thinking?
I’m Counting on You.
Dear Counting:
What a great question! Building flexibility in student thinking is critical in their mathematical development. Students need help building number sense. To help this along, I suggest incorporating some number talk routines into each class. These are five minute group exercises. Start with dot talks to get the feel for them. You can then progress to number talks and eventually to problem strings. There are books and professional development sessions on number talks. The hardest part of number talks is stopping them! Students enjoy them so much and so do teachers. Set a timer and stick to 5 minutes maximum.
Resources: Making Number Talks Matter by Cathy Humphreys and Ruth Parker. Jo Boaler also has resources on number talks on YouCubed. Pam Harris is a Problem String master.
Good luck, and thanks for asking!
Abacus
September 2024
September 2024
Dear Abacus:
I hope this letter finds you well! As a dedicated teacher, I often find myself struggling with a persistent challenge: how to engage my students in math class. Many of them seem disinterested or overwhelmed by the subject, which makes it difficult to foster a love for learning. I’ve tried incorporating technology and various methods, but I still feel like I'm missing the mark.
What strategies can I employ to spark their curiosity and make math more enjoyable? I want my students to see math as an exciting adventure rather than a chore. Any advice you can provide would be greatly appreciated!
Sincerely,
Missing My Math Muse
Dear Missing My Math Muse
Thank you for your letter! It’s wonderful to see your commitment to engaging your students in math class. The challenge of fostering interest in math is something many teachers face, but there are effective strategies you can implement to help spark curiosity and make learning enjoyable.
First, try to connect math concepts to real-life scenarios that resonate with your students. For instance, you could explore topics like budgeting for a school event, analyzing sports statistics, or even planning a trip. When students see how math applies to their everyday lives, it can transform their perspective and make the subject feel more relevant.
Incorporating games and friendly competitions can also be a great way to engage students. Math-related puzzles, online math games, or team challenges can create a fun atmosphere where students can learn collaboratively and enjoy the experience. This approach not only lightens the mood but also encourages teamwork and critical thinking.
Additionally, consider using the Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) approach to build conceptual understanding. Start with hands-on methods using physical objects or manipulatives to help students visualize math concepts. Then, move to representational methods, such as drawings or diagrams, before finally transitioning to abstract symbols and equations. This method helps students deepen their understanding and makes the transition to abstract thinking much smoother.
You might also want to incorporate rich tasks into your lessons. These open-ended problems encourage exploration and critical thinking, allowing students to engage deeply with mathematical concepts. Presenting students with challenges that require them to discuss, hypothesize, and innovate not only captivates their interest but also develops their problem-solving skills.
Finally, share stories of mathematicians or historical events related to math. Highlighting the human side of math can inspire your students and show them that math is not just about numbers—it’s about creativity, innovation, and problem-solving.
With your dedication and a mix of these strategies, I’m confident you can help your students view math as an exciting adventure. Keep fostering that love for learning!
Best wishes,
Abacus
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