7 Thinking Strategies in Math

1. Asking Questions…working to deepen understanding by asking questions about a concept

2. Determining Importance…deciding what information is relevant and significant

3. Drawing on Background Knowledge…determining what information is known and how it can help us make sense of new information

4. Inferring…drawing conclusions based on the information provided

5. Modeling with Math or Making mental Models…finding a variety of ways to represent information, ideas, and solutions

6. Monitoring for Meaning…using “fix it” strategies when things aren’t going well and knowing to proceed when things ARE on track

7. Synthesizing…developing deeper understanding over time and combining the understanding of multiple topics