Resources, Ideas, Inspiration

Get Off to a Great Start in Math Class in 2024! 

Here are 8 Ways to Pose Better Questions in Math Class

1. Don’t let “information gathering” questions dominate your lesson.

2. Ask probing questions that require students to explain, elaborate or clarify their thinking.

3. Give students adequate time to respond.

4. Encourage reflection and justification.

5. Avoid “funneling” the conversation.

6. Ask students to make the mathematics visible.

7. Try “focusing” on your questions instead.

8. Encourage students to ask questions of one another.

More Great Ideas to Use This Year

Talking with Students About their Mathematical Strengths and Weaknesses

Moments of frustration as well as pride are common for children who struggle with math and for the adults who work with them. Some children give up and see themselves as failures; others exhibit behavior complications that relate to their difficulties with math.

To help children learn to clarify and specify their differences, teachers can use a process called demystification. Through open discussion with supportive adults, children understand that everyone has strengths and weaknesses. This process creates a shared sense of optimism that the child and adult are working toward a common goal and that learning problems can be successfully managed. The following suggestions can help as parents, teachers, and other specialists work together to demystify children’s difficulties with math.

• Eliminate any stigma.

• Discuss strengths and interests. 

• Discuss areas of weakness. 

• Emphasize optimism. 

• Teach explicit meta-cognitive strategies when needed. In other words, help your child think about thinking. For some students, a teacher will need to provide direct instruction to help children think about their approach (including previewing), pursue facts, and self-monitor. 

• Identify an ally. Help your child locate a mentor – a favorite teacher, a teacher’s aide, or a neighbor. 

• Protect from humiliation. Help your child strengthen self-esteem and maintain pride by protecting him/her from public humiliation, especially in relation to his learning differences.