Math

Math Rules!

Mathematics Philosophy
I  have the philosophy that I must do whatever it takes to help my students succeed in math.  If it takes using music, flash cards, memorization, and manipulatives, then that’s what I will use.  My motto is “What ever it takes”.     


Teaching With Manipulatives 
Most students want to be involved in what they are learning.  One way to get them involved is to let them use their hands.  As often as possible I will put a tool in my students' hands -- from rulers to fraction strips to geometric shapes-- to help them fully grasp the concept being taught. 


Working with Struggling Mathematicians
When working with struggling mathematicians, I have learned to expect the unexpected.  When I began my assessment of one particular student, I soon realized things are not always what they seem.  I thought the student was struggling with multiplication facts, when in fact, he struggled with procedural orders.  You can see more about the assessment by clicking here.


It's Not Just the Numbers...

I have learned that you can bring a creative style to math through integration.  Children's literature, art, and technology can be all be incorporated into some amazing lessons. Click the link to see a new way to use the book Flotsam. As for technology, today's students not only want lessons to include technology, they expect them to.  Weather it's using Smart Boards, calculators, or the world wide web, technology is a must.

A Week of Plans...
I wont deny that crating plans for teaching Math for 1 week was tough.  I enjoyed the challenge, but most importantly, I enjoyed teaching the lessons.  Being able to take an idea and run with it was great.  Not only that, but I was able to show my students that Math can be fun!  For a peek at the lesson, click here.

Using fractions when we cook...

We can easily integrate math and art.